Tag: Sega

  • Sega’s Sonic Rumble Set for Global Release in November 2025

    Sega’s Sonic Rumble Set for Global Release in November 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date and Platforms: Sonic Rumble is set to launch globally in November 2025 on PC via Steam, as well as on iOS and Android, but a specific date has not been disclosed.

    2. Development Delays: The game, initially known as Sonic Toys Party, faced multiple delays, moving from a planned winter 2024 release to November 2025 due to quality issues and gameplay mechanics revisions.

    3. Early Testing and Feedback: A soft launch occurred in select countries, where early players rated the game 4.8 stars on the App Store, indicating positive reception and prompting adjustments based on feedback.

    4. Gameplay Mechanics: Sonic Rumble will feature a battle royale format with 32 players in a toy box arena, involving multiple rounds and a final survival challenge for the last eight players.

    5. Collaboration and Features: The game is a collaboration between Sonic Team and Rovio Entertainment, including special content like a Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie pack with extra skins and cosmetics.

    After a number of postponements that extended its development by almost a year, Sega’s much-anticipated multiplayer battle royale, Sonic Rumble, is set to launch globally in November 2025 on PC through Steam, as well as on iOS and Android. Yet, a precise date within November has not been revealed.

    Early Hints and Delays

    Initially known as Sonic Toys Party, Sonic Rumble was hinted at in leaks around the middle of 2024 and was supposed to come out in winter 2024 as a free-to-play game. This project is a collaboration between Sonic Team and Rovio Entertainment, following Sega’s acquisition of the creator of Angry Birds in 2023.

    The game faced its first delay to spring 2025, only to have a specific release date of May 8, 2025, announced, which was later abandoned just eight days prior to launch due to emerging quality issues.

    Impact of Delay on Key Regions

    The third delay left several important markets, such as the US, UK, and Japan, waiting. Meanwhile, Sonic Rumble had a soft launch in certain countries like Uruguay, Belgium, and Australia starting in August 2024. These delays were largely a result of the need to revamp key gameplay mechanics that were identified during closed beta tests, including a playtest that took place from May 24 to 26, 2024, along with ongoing regional testing.

    Players who got in early have praised the game, giving it a 4.8-star rating on the App Store. Sega has mentioned talks with Rovio to ensure the game’s mechanics are balanced and to avoid pay-to-win scenarios, a sentiment echoed by Sonic co-creator Takashi Iizuka in an interview from October 2024, where he emphasized the aim for a “long-lasting” experience instead of a rushed release.

    Latest Updates and Features

    On October 15, 2025, Sega unveiled the newest release window trailer for Sonic Rumble, paired with an official blog post that called the game the “ultimate arcade royale.” The battle royale game will feature 32 players in a chaotic arena styled like a toy box, allowing players to control miniature versions of characters like Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Shadow, Cream, and Dr. Eggman.

    Much like Fall Guys, the gameplay will consist of multiple rounds, starting with thirty-two players, then narrowing down to sixteen, and finally eight finalists who will compete in a survival challenge.

    Additionally, the game will include a specific Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie pack featuring extra skins, stages, and cosmetics like Excalibur Sonic from Sonic and the Black Knight, as well as Wave from Sonic Riders.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Olympics in Sega’s New IOC Deal

    Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Olympics in Sega’s New IOC Deal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sega and the International Olympic Committee have a multi-year licensing deal starting October 7, 2025, for Sonic the Hedgehog merchandise featuring the Olympic rings.
    2. Sega has regained the rights to the “Olympic Games” license, with new Sega-themed Olympic products set to launch in 2026.
    3. The partnership aims to combine storytelling and innovation to connect with fans of all ages through Sonic and the Olympics.
    4. This agreement builds on past collaborations, notably the “Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games” series, which began in 2007.
    5. Future games, including “Mario and Sonic at the Winter Olympics” in 2026, are anticipated with confirmation pending from Sega.

    Sega has teamed up with the International Olympic Committee for a multi-year licensing deal, starting from October 7, 2025. This agreement will see the launch of Sonic the Hedgehog merchandise that includes the Olympic rings. Additionally, Sega has regained the rights to the “Olympic Games” license, with a full range of Sega-themed Olympic products set to debut in 2026.

    Exciting Partnership

    Elisabeth Allaman, the Deputy Managing Director of IOC Television and Marketing Services, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership. She stated that the IOC is excited to join forces with Sega for this new venture, which aims to harness storytelling and innovation to connect with audiences around the world. By merging the iconic Olympic rings with the much-loved character Sonic, they hope to offer fans of every age a chance to enjoy sport and play in fresh and unforgettable ways.

    Sonic’s Values

    Shuji Utsumi, who is the President, COO, and Representative Director of Sega Corporation, shared his thoughts on the collaboration. He noted that this partnership reflects the IOC’s dedication to showcasing values such as excellence, unity, and perseverance on the world stage—qualities that Sonic represents through his speed, determination, and resilience. Utsumi also mentioned the unique designs that will combine the recognizable Olympic rings and Sonic, and he is excited to share this initiative with fans globally.

    A Rich History

    This new licensing agreement builds on previous collaborations between the IOC and Sega, particularly the Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games series, which started back in 2007 on the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS. Following that were titles like Mario and Sonic at the Winter Games (2009) for the same platforms. Further installments featuring events in London, Sochi, and Rio were released on the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS. The most recent game was launched in 2019 for the Nintendo Switch, along with freemium games for iOS and Android, plus arcade versions in 2020.

    Future Games

    In the past year, a developer who previously worked on Mario and Sonic mentioned that there won’t be any new Mario and Sonic games for the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Olympic Video Game license was then held by nWay Games, which put out “Olympics GO! Paris 2024,” a free-to-play game that includes microtransactions and NFTs.

    Now that Sega has the Olympic Games rights, fans can look forward to Mario and Sonic at the Winter Olympics in 2026, which will take place in Italy, followed by a potential Summer Olympics game in Los Angeles. However, we will need to wait for an official announcement from Sega for confirmation.

    Recent Collaborations

    In addition to this new licensing deal, Sega recently worked with Puma to launch a Capsule Collection featuring three colorways showcasing Sonic, Tails, and Shadow.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Sega Files New Trademark Ahead of Tokyo Game Show 2025

    Sega Files New Trademark Ahead of Tokyo Game Show 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sega has filed a trademark for “Arcade Paradise,” suggesting a possible new project related to arcade games.
    2. Four unannounced games from Sega, including involvement from Atlus and Ryu Ga Gotoku, will be revealed at Tokyo Game Show 2025.
    3. The trademark overlaps with a previously released game called “Arcade Paradise,” a laundry simulator with mini-games.
    4. Sega may be planning to revive classic arcade titles, potentially launching a subscription service for its classic games.
    5. M2, known for previous Sega collections, may be involved in bringing classic games back, with excitement around a possible remake of Yakuza Kiwami 3.

    Sega has recently submitted a trademark application for Arcade Paradise, which was made public on September 19, 2025, following its submission on September 10. This news comes just before the Tokyo Game Show 2025, which is set to take place later this week.

    Unannounced Titles Teased

    Sega has hinted at four unannounced games that will be part of its lineup for TGS 2025, confirming involvement from Atlus and Ryu Ga Gotoku. Fans and industry analysts are buzzing with theories that this trademark could be connected to a compilation of SEGA’s arcade games, possibly featuring beloved classics like Virtua Racing, which was recently brought to the Nintendo Switch by developer M2.

    A Confusing Overlap

    Interestingly, there is already a game called Arcade Paradise that was released in 2022, which is essentially a laundry simulator filled with mini-games. This title was published by Wired Productions and Nosebleed Interactive, and it even has a physical version released by Soft Source.

    Despite the name confusion, Sega has successfully registered the Arcade Paradise trademark with the Japan Patent Office, which covers video game software, entertainment services, and downloadable content.

    Reviving Classic Titles

    Sega seems to be working on a way to bring back its long-neglected arcade games under the Arcade Paradise title, especially since the company has removed many classic Sega games from digital stores like PlayStation Store, Steam, iOS, and Android, including iconic titles such as Jet Set Radio, Sonic CD, and Crazy Taxi. This has led fans to speculate whether Sega might be launching a subscription service akin to Nintendo’s NSO Online – Classics model.

    Although there has been no official comment from Sega, many are left guessing what this project could entail and if the trademarked name will appear at Tokyo Game Show 2025. Fans are particularly hopeful that Sega will bundle together 20 or more titles from its golden era of the 80s and 90s, similar to M2’s ShotTriggers collection featuring Aleste or Power Strike (1988), GG Aleste (1991), GG Alesete II, and GG Aleste III.

    Previous Collections by M2

    M2 also managed the Sega Ages collection for the Nintendo Switch, which includes games like Sonic the Hedgehog 1 and 2, After Burner II, Columns II: The Voyage Through Time, Fantasy Zone, G-LOC: Air Battle, Puyo Puyo 1 and 2, Shinobi, and Virtua Racing, among other titles.

    Additionally, a recent leak from RGG Studio’s official website briefly mentioned Yakuza Kiwami 3 as part of its projects, indicating a remake of the 2009 Yakuza 3. This has generated excitement for TGS 2025, as Yakuza Kiwami 3 could potentially be one of the four unannounced titles showcased by Sega.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Sega Dev Kit Raid: Video Game Preservation Museum Launches GoFundMe

    Sega Dev Kit Raid: Video Game Preservation Museum Launches GoFundMe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sega Developer Kit Raid: Sega alerted UK police, leading to a raid on a collector’s home and the seizure of rare development kits and games.

    2. VGPM Action: The Video Game Preservation Museum launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the seller’s legal defense and reclaim the confiscated items, emphasizing their importance for video game history.

    3. Legal and Financial Support: Funds raised will cover court costs, lawyer fees, and expert witnesses to challenge what is seen as corporate overreach by Sega.

    4. Seized Valuable Items: The raid resulted in the confiscation of numerous rare games and prototypes that were legally acquired, raising concerns among collectors about preservation efforts.

    5. Community Call to Action: VGPM urges the gaming community to support the campaign and raise awareness, warning that this incident sets a dangerous precedent for collectors and the preservation of gaming heritage.

    The situation surrounding the Sega developer kit raid is intensifying. Recently, Sega alerted the UK police, which led to a raid at a collector’s residence. The Video Game Preservation Museum (VGPM) has responded by starting a GoFundMe campaign aimed at covering legal fees. They emphasize that this event poses a serious risk to the preservation of video games and their history.

    Community Action

    In light of the impact this incident has had on retro game collectors, the VGPM has launched a GoFundMe titled “Community vs SEGA: Protect What They Tried To Erase.” This initiative, led by Damien Farnham, aims to provide financial support for the seller’s legal defense against the accusations and to reclaim the confiscated developer kits and games.

    The campaign claims that the items in question were not illegal and were highly valuable for the community, as they aimed to preserve unreleased titles. VGPM argues that Sega escalated a simple collector’s transaction into an extensive police operation.

    Legal Expenses

    The funds raised will go towards covering costs for court proceedings, lawyer fees, expert witnesses specializing in intellectual property and auction law, along with other related expenses to help exonerate the seller and challenge what many in the gaming community see as corporate overreach.

    This event occurred on July 14, 2025, when ten officers from the City of London police force raided a collector’s home. They arrested him on charges of money laundering and seized numerous rare development kits, including those for the Nintendo Wii U and 3DS, as well as undumped games for the Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, DSi, and 3DS.

    Seized Items

    The seized games featured prototypes such as Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood, Sonic Generations, Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympics, Phantasy Star 0, Alien Infestation, Shinobi, and an unreleased Nintendo DS version of Rhythm Thief & The Emperor’s Treasure. All these were legally acquired by the seller for about £10,000 during a Sega office clearance in Brentford.

    VGPM, recognized for its dedication to preserving neglected retro gaming artifacts, has initiated a fundraising effort to secure this collection for public enjoyment. The raid has sparked significant criticism from collectors and the retro gaming community, with VGPM calling it “nothing less than a preservation disaster and a dangerous precedent for collectors, archivists, and the gaming community.”

    Call for Support

    In an X thread, VGPM urged, “We urgently need the support of the wider community to keep this story alive and visible. Share it, talk about it, question it. When private companies can call in the police to raid homes over discarded hardware, the stakes are bigger than the publisher.”

    VGPM also warned that ‘this is only the beginning’ and more details will follow, along with documents related to the case. Time Extension, the outlet that broke the news, has maintained communication with the seller and reported that Sega has yet to disclose the location of the seized items, despite several formal letters sent to Sega’s CEO regarding a potential confidential settlement.

    The seller has been in the used electronics resale business for over ten years. He recounted that at 7:30 am, police arrived at his home and held him for eight hours at Bishopsgate Police Station, where they collected his DNA, fingerprints, and photographs before releasing him without a formal release letter.

    He expressed frustration over the police’s inconsistent communication, mentioning they initially asked him to sign away property rights, then claimed he never owned the items, which is puzzling.

    The GoFundMe is gradually gaining momentum, and VGPM is actively seeking support online, reinforcing that this struggle is vital to protect gaming heritage from potential obliteration by corporations, both now and in the future.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • SEGA Unveils Tokyo Game Show 2025 Lineup with 4 Mystery Games

    SEGA Unveils Tokyo Game Show 2025 Lineup with 4 Mystery Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tokyo Game Show 2025 will be held from September 25 to 28 in Chiba, Japan, featuring both confirmed and undisclosed titles from Sega.
    2. Confirmed games include Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, launching on the first day of the event, and Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O World Stage, releasing on October 30, 2025.
    3. Atlus will showcase Persona 3: Reload, set for release on October 23, 2025, alongside the mobile spin-off Persona 5: The Phantom X.
    4. Attendees can participate in interactive experiences, including Football Manager 26 and Sega Football Club Champions 2025 matches, with prizes to be won.
    5. Speculation surrounds four undisclosed titles, particularly from Ry Ga Gotoku Studios, with hopes for announcements at the RGG Summit on September 24, 2025.

    Sega has revealed a lineup of games set to be featured at the Tokyo Game Show 2025, which includes four mysterious titles that have not been disclosed yet.

    Event Details

    Tokyo Game Show 2025 is planned to take place from September 25 to 28 at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. The event will showcase a combination of confirmed games and some mystery titles, simply marked as “coming soon” on Sega’s official TGS website.

    Speculations Among Gamers

    These four undisclosed games have sparked discussions among players, leading to speculation about their identities, with many hoping for both new and returning intellectual properties.

    Among the confirmed titles for Sega’s lineup at the Tokyo Game Show is Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, which just so happens to launch on the same day as the event starts. Team Sonic has partnered with the Initial D Arcade development team to present a new “CrossWorld” feature, enabling players to switch tracks during a race.

    More Games on the Horizon

    Also featured in Sega’s presentation at TGS 2025 is Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O World Stage, which is set for an upgraded release on October 30, 2025, across PS5, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

    Atlus, Sega’s well-known studio, will provide a hands-on preview of Persona 3: Reload, which is anticipated to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on October 23, 2025. This will coincide with the release of Persona 5: The Phantom X, a mobile and PC spin-off that debuted in June 2025.

    Interactive Experiences for Attendees

    Moreover, those attending TGS will have the opportunity to participate in Football Manager 26 and Sega Football Club Champions 2025 matches, where they can win prizes.

    This leaves fans with four yet-to-be-announced titles, especially from Ry Ga Gotoku Studios. The studio is expected to hold its annual RGG Summit just a day before the Tokyo Game Show begins, on September 24, 2025, which might provide insight into one of the forthcoming mystery games.

    Last year’s RGG Summit unveiled Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, which was released in February 2025, raising the possibility of a Yakuza: Kenzan! remaster announcement. Another strong candidate for the summit could be a gameplay teaser for Ryu Ga Gotoku’s new IP, Stranger Than Heaven.

    Anticipation for Future Titles

    A potential addition to the lineup is the new Virtua Fighter Project, showcasing more in-engine gameplay footage. Fans are also hopeful for a reboot of Jet Set Radio or Crazy Taxi, especially considering Sega’s “Power Surge” initiative aimed at revitalizing dormant intellectual properties.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Lego 260-Piece Sega Genesis Controller Now Available for €19.99

    Lego 260-Piece Sega Genesis Controller Now Available for €19.99

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Lego set is named the Lego Sonic the Hedgehog Sega Genesis Controller and includes 260 pieces.
    2. It serves as a tribute to the iconic Sega Genesis controller and features a miniature Green Hill Zone from Sonic games.
    3. The set can be displayed in two orientations and includes a stand and regional stickers for customization.
    4. It is compatible with the Lego Builder app for building instructions and 3D model viewing.
    5. Priced at €19.99 (~$23.29), it is currently marked as “Not currently available” on the product page.

    Following a recent announcement that Lego intends to launch a SEGA Genesis Controller, the controller has now been listed on the Lego France website. This new Lego set is a tribute to the iconic game controller and even features a reference to Sega’s beloved character, Sonic the Hedgehog.

    A Nostalgic Tribute

    Officially named the Lego Sonic the Hedgehog Sega Genesis Controller, this set comprises 260 pieces and serves as a perfect gift for any gamer enthusiast. Not only does it pay homage to the retro controller, but it also doubles as a stylish room decoration. The Lego Sega Genesis Controller can be showcased in two different orientations. Besides the front of the controller, the back showcases a miniature rendition of the Green Hill Zone from the Sonic video games.

    Customization and Compatibility

    Included in the package are a stand and regional stickers for personalization. Additionally, the set is compatible with the Lego Builder app, which enables users to access building instructions, view and rotate models in 3D, and keep track of their progress. Once assembled, the set measures 15 × 10 × 3 cm (5.5 × 3.5 × 1 in.).

    Pricing Details

    The Lego Sonic the Hedgehog Sega Genesis Controller is priced at €19.99 (~$23.29), making it a bit less expensive than the 8BitDo M30 Bluetooth controller, which can be found on Amazon for $24.99 and is based on Sega’s 6-button controller. Regrettably, the Lego set is currently marked as “Not currently available” on the product page.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Launches August 29 – Retro Hack n’ Slash

    Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Launches August 29 – Retro Hack n’ Slash

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Title and Release Date: The new game is called Shinobi: Art of Vengeance and will launch on August 29, 2025.

    2. Developer Collaboration: The game is being developed by Lizardcube, a French team known for reviving classic games, in collaboration with Sega’s Japanese division.

    3. Pricing and Platforms: Available on multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series S|X, and Xbox One. The Standard edition is priced at $26.99, with a digital deluxe edition at $35.99.

    4. Storyline and Gameplay: Players will follow Joe Musashi seeking revenge after his ninja village is destroyed, featuring around 10 hours of gameplay with intense combat and various settings.

    5. Nostalgic Elements: The game pays tribute to classic titles in the series, retaining iconic moves, enemies, and bosses, as part of Sega’s initiative to revive old IPs.

    After a long break of twenty years, Sega’s Shinobi series is making a comeback. The 2D sidescrolling ninja game will be called Shinobi: Art of Vengeance and it is set to launch on August 29, 2025.

    Collaboration with Lizardcube

    Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is being developed by the French team Lizardcube, who are working alongside Sega’s Japanese division. Lizardcube has previously revived classic games such as Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap and Streets of Rage 4. Streets of Rage 4 was particularly notable for its hand-drawn animations that were influenced by Japanese manga, while also bringing back the nostalgic feel of the Sega Genesis era.

    Pricing and Platforms

    This game will be published by Sega and will be available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series S|X, and Xbox One. The Standard edition will be priced at $26.99, and there will also be a digital deluxe edition available for $35.99, which will include extras like starter packs.

    The Storyline

    In Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, players will follow Joe Musashi, the main character, who seeks revenge after an evil corporation destroys his ninja village. Joe will fight through waves of enemies, mechanical foes, and challenging bosses in settings that include burning castles, neon-lit cityscapes, and underground hideouts that capture the essence of “Cool Japan.”

    The game promises around 10 hours of main campaign gameplay, featuring smooth movement mechanics, intense melee combat, and a dash feature that lets players string together multiple combos.

    A Legacy of Shinobi

    Shinobi has played a significant role in shaping arcade and console gaming during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The first game was launched in 1987, introducing players to the original Shinobi Arcade. Over the years, the series expanded to include 11 titles across various platforms like Commodore 64, Atari ST, and Sega’s own consoles during its peak.

    The last major console release for Shinobi was in 2003 on the PlayStation 2, followed by a less popular title known as Shinobi 3D that came out in Japan for the Nintendo 3DS in 2011.

    Nostalgic Elements and Future Announcements

    Shinobi: Art of Vengeance pays tribute to beloved classics such as The Revenge of Shinobi and Shinobi III by retaining many of the nostalgic moves, enemies, and bosses. The game was first hinted at during the Game Awards in 2023, as part of Sega’s “Power Surge” initiative aimed at reviving old IPs. This initiative also includes the revival of other classics like Jet Set Radio, Golden Axe, and Crazy Taxi.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • SEGA Unveils First Virtua Fighter Project Gameplay Trailer

    SEGA Unveils First Virtua Fighter Project Gameplay Trailer

    Key Takeaways

    1. SEGA released the first official gameplay footage of the upcoming Virtua Fighter Project on August 4, 2025, showcasing a duel between characters Stella and Akira Yuki in a Training Stage.

    2. The gameplay trailer focuses on realistic fighting mechanics, lacking a HUD and background music, with more information expected at the Tokyo Game Show 2025 from September 25 to 28.

    3. Fan reactions to the trailer are mixed, with some critiquing the lack of visual flair, but SEGA is committed to maintaining the realistic and fluid combat that defined the original game.

    4. Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for narrative-heavy games like Yakuza, is leading the development of the new Virtua Fighter Project, alongside their open-world game Project Century.

    5. The new Virtua Fighter Project does not yet have an official title or release date, but speculation suggests a possible launch in Summer 2026, while Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O World Stage is set for release on October 20, 2025.

    SEGA has at long last shared the first official footage of gameplay for its upcoming Virtua Fighter Project. This trailer, lasting a whole minute, shows intense and silent combat featuring a duel between Stella (not to be confused with Sarah Bryant) and Akira Yuki in a so-called Training Stage.

    Gameplay Focused

    The gameplay trailer dropped on August 4, 2025, and is devoid of any HUD or background music, emphasizing the realistic fighting mechanics that the new game aims to deliver. By the end of the trailer, SEGA indicated that more information about the new Virtua Fighter Project will be unveiled during the Tokyo Game Show 2025, which is set to take place from September 25 to September 28.

    Fan Reactions

    Earlier, on January 25, SEGA had put out a teaser that specifically stated the trailer featured “pre-development engine footage.” Fans have finally gotten a glance at official gameplay that aligns closely with what was shown in the teaser.

    While some fans critique the game for not having enough visual flair and polish, this appears to be a deliberate design decision by SEGA. The company seems dedicated to preserving the realistic and fluid combat mechanics that made the original game, which first launched in December 1993, so appealing.

    Development Insights

    During the 2024 Game Awards in December, SEGA revealed that Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is leading the development of the new Virtua Fighter Project. This news is somewhat unexpected, as the studio is primarily recognized for its narrative-heavy games like Yakuza.

    In the same event, Ryu Ga Gotoku announced an entirely new open-world game, which caught many fans off guard. The studio seems to be balancing the new Virtua Fighter Project along with Project Century, now known as Stranger Than Heaven, which spans various eras from Japan’s Taisho period in 1915 to the Showa era of 1943. This game bears a striking similarity to the Yakuza series, but lacks the turn-based RPG mechanics seen in Like A Dragon.

    No Release Date Yet

    As for the new Virtua Fighter Project, it still awaits an official title and a concrete release window. Speculation hints at a possible launch in the Summer of 2026.

    In the meantime, SEGA is gearing up to release Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O World Stage for Xbox Series S|X and PS5 on October 20, 2025.

    Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O World Stage serves as a visual upgrade of Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown and follows the PC release of Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. Additionally, it introduces a new single-player mode called “World Stage” and a fresh DLC character, Dural. A port for Nintendo Switch 2 is also in development and is expected to launch at a later time.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Persona 3 Reload for Nintendo Switch 2 Launches October 23

    Persona 3 Reload for Nintendo Switch 2 Launches October 23

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Persona 3 Reload will be available on the Nintendo Switch on October 23, 2025.

    2. Physical Release Format: The physical version will be a Game-Key Card, not a complete cartridge, causing some disappointment among fans.

    3. DLC Pricing and Availability: The $35 DLC expansion “Episode Aigis: The Answer” will not be included in any edition by default.

    4. Pre-Order Options: Pre-orders are open with various pricing tiers: $59.99 for Standard Edition, $69.99 for Digital Deluxe, and $89.99 for Digital Premium.

    5. Game Experience: The game will maintain the core Persona 3 elements while offering improved visuals on the Switch 2, with an overall potential investment of $120 for the complete experience including DLC.

    Sega and Atlus have shared the exciting news that Persona 3 Reload, a well-loved remake of the classic Persona 3, is set to be released on the Nintendo Switch on October 23, 2025. This announcement was made via a launch trailer showcased during the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, generating buzz among fans.

    Physical Release Details

    Despite the excitement, some of the enthusiasm has been tempered by Sega’s announcement that the physical version will be a Game-Key Card rather than a complete cartridge. Additionally, the $35 DLC expansion titled “Episode Aigis: The Answer” will not be bundled with even the premium edition by default, which has disappointed some fans.

    Pre-Order and Pricing Options

    Pre-orders for Persona 3 Reload are currently available on the Nintendo eShop. Gamers can choose from several options, including a $59.99 Standard Edition, a $69.99 Digital Deluxe Edition that comes with an artbook and soundtrack, and a $89.99 Digital Premium Edition that includes DLC outfits.

    Japanese retailer listings shared by X user NSuperGamerGuy have further confirmed that Persona 3 Reload’s physical edition will indeed be released on a Game-Key Card, which has caused frustration among fans. Conversely, Sega has announced that Sonic Racing CrossWorld will be available as a full cartridge release in early 2026.

    Players’ Reactions

    The choice to not include the $35 Episode Aigis DLC has also contributed to the dissatisfaction among certain players, even though this follows Sega and Atlus’s typical release strategy on other platforms, where expansions had to be purchased separately. Nevertheless, players will benefit from improved visual quality thanks to the upgraded hardware of the Switch 2.

    Originally, the game launched in February 2024 on Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, and PC, but this will be its debut on the Nintendo Switch platform. In comparison, Persona 3 Portable, Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal were all released on the original Nintendo Switch in late 2022 and early 2023.

    Game Experience and Pricing

    The Switch 2 version aims to preserve the essential elements of the Persona 3 Reload experience. Gamers will venture into the Dark Hour, battle Shadows in Tartarus, and forge social connections. Although the excitement for the game has slightly waned due to the Game-Key Card situation and the high cost to experience the complete title, there is a positive aspect for those willing to spend: fans can purchase the DLC separately, bringing the total investment for the complete Persona 3 Reload experience to $120.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Launch Physical Cart on Switch 2 in 2026

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Launch Physical Cart on Switch 2 in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will have a full physical cartridge release for the Nintendo Switch 2, addressing concerns about digital-only releases.
    2. The digital launch is scheduled for Holiday 2025, while the physical version for Switch 2 will arrive in early 2026.
    3. The Standard Edition is priced at $69.99 and the Digital Deluxe Edition at $89.99, with pre-orders for the original Switch starting at $59.99.
    4. Players can upgrade from the original Switch version to the Switch 2 for a fee, rumored to be around $10, allowing progress transfer.
    5. The game features extensive customization options with over 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and 100 parts and decals for creating unique vehicles.

    SEGA has revealed that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will be getting a full physical cartridge release for the Nintendo Switch 2. This news eases worries among fans about Nintendo’s tendency to use the Game-Key Card system, which only provides a license to access the game instead of a full physical copy.

    Release Dates for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to launch digitally in Holiday 2025. However, those eager to play it on the Switch 2 will have to wait until early 2026 for the physical version. SEGA has assured players that the physical cartridge will include “the full base game on the cartridge.”

    A Win for Collectors

    This announcement is a significant victory for Nintendo Switch 2 owners, especially in a time when digital keys and Game-Key cards are becoming increasingly common. This trend has frustrated many collectors and gamers who wish to own a tangible copy of their favorite games. Although the price for the physical edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is still pending, the digital pricing has been confirmed.

    The Standard Edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will cost $69.99, and the Digital Deluxe Edition is priced at $89.99. For those who own the original Nintendo Switch, including the Switch OLED and Lite models, pre-orders are now available starting at $59.99.

    Upgrade Options for Players

    Moreover, players who purchase Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the original Switch will have the opportunity to upgrade to the Switch 2 version for a fee. While the price of the Upgrade Pack has not been officially announced, rumors suggest it could be around $10. This allows players who buy a Nintendo Switch 2 later to transfer their progress without needing to buy a completely new game.

    Pre-orders for the original Switch version are currently open, but SEGA has yet to start pre-orders for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the Nintendo Switch 2.

    In a recent trailer, SEGA demonstrated how players can combine racers, vehicle components, and gadgets. It appears that the developers are taking customization to new heights in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, offering more than 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and over 100 parts and decals. This will enable players to create thousands of unique custom vehicles.

    SEGA’s efforts in enhancing the gaming experience are clearly aimed at providing players with more creative freedom than ever before.

    Source:
    link

    Tags: , ,