Key Takeaways
1. SEGA has removed nine classic mobile game ports from app stores, signaling the end of the SEGA Forever program.
2. The games were initially free with ads, but all ads were removed, making paid versions accessible for free before the delisting.
3. The list of removed games includes 13 titles, as some entries like Golden Axe Classics and Shining Force contain multiple games.
4. The SEGA Forever initiative started in 2017, aimed at providing free access to classic games on mobile platforms, but support has ended.
5. Reasons for delisting may involve technical challenges with updates and potential plans for a new mobile subscription service, though no official details have been provided.
SEGA has quietly removed nine classic mobile game ports from the iOS App and Google Play Store, signaling the end of the SEGA Forever program. Many of these retro games were beloved by fans:
Free to Download
These classics were available for free, with an optional $2 in-app purchase to eliminate ads. Eventually, SEGA decided to take away all ads, effectively making the paid versions of these games accessible for free. A pop-up within the game warned players that support for these titles had ended, but they could still be played offline.
The List of Classics
While there are nine listed games, it actually amounts to 13, since both Golden Axe Classics and Shining Force include three games each.
These titles are now alongside other SEGA classics that were removed back in 2023, such as Ristar, Vectorman, Comix Zone, and more.
SEGA Forever Initiative
In 2017, the company initiated SEGA Forever, which brought many of its cult classics to iOS and Android platforms. The goal was to provide these classic games for free, although they were supported by in-game advertisements.
SEGA has not disclosed the specific delisting dates for these nine titles. This action came shortly before the SEGA Forever program was officially discontinued in late 2023, ending support for older mobile ports.
This is not the first instance of SEGA removing classic ports. The Japanese gaming publisher had previously taken down over 60 games, including Crazy Taxi and Jet Set Radio, from consoles and PC storefronts last December.
Reasons Behind Delisting
A possible explanation for the delisting could be the complex technical requirements for updating these games to meet newer system APIs. Some fans speculate that SEGA might be gearing up for a new mobile subscription service or a “SEGA Pass,” but there are currently no official confirmations or indications that this is in the works.
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