Short answers, pulled from the story.
Fighting EX Layer was released for PlayStation 4 on the 28th of June 2018. The game was previously available in a public beta on the 11th of December 2017 to test online connectivity and gather player feedback.
Arika developed Fighting EX Layer and self-funded the entire project using their own reserves. Akira Nishitani, the president of Arika, described the development as a financial gamble to keep the company healthy without external publisher help.
Fighting EX Layer originated from an April Fools' Day prank trailer released by Arika on the 1st of April 2017. The overwhelming positive reaction from the internet forced the studio to pivot from a joke to a full-scale development project confirmed at Evo 2017.
Fighting EX Layer introduces a new running mechanic, ground chain combos, and an optional Progressive mode for new players. The game also features a Gougi Boost system that grants bonuses and allows players to customize decks before matches begin.
Fighting EX Layer: Another Dash was released for Nintendo Switch in 2021. This port introduced new mechanics including EX-Dash, EX-Arrow, EX-Illusion, Cancel Break, and Super Cancel.
Arika decided to self-fund Fighting EX Layer because their previous pitches to Capcom for a new entry in the EX series were unsuccessful. The studio went it alone out of necessity and a refusal to let the legacy of the Street Fighter EX series die.