Sega Bets on Innovation with Century and Virtua Fighter Projects

RGG Studio's ability to juggle multiple large-scale projects simultaneously is a testament to Sega's risk-taking approach to game development. This willingness to venture beyond safe bets has enabled the studio to pursue ambitious new IPs and innovative takes on established franchises.

Sega Embraces Risk, Fostering Innovation

RGG Studio, the creators of the Like a Dragon series, currently has several major projects underway, including a brand-new IP. Despite already having a new Like a Dragon title and a Virtua Fighter remake slated for 2025, they've added two more projects to their plate. Studio head and director Masayoshi Yokoyama attributes this to Sega's open embrace of risk.

In December, RGG unveiled trailers for two distinct projects: Project Century, a new IP set in 1915 Japan, and a new Virtua Fighter project (separate from the Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. remaster). These large-scale projects demonstrate the studio's ambition, and Sega's confidence in RGG's ability to deliver. This reflects a strong trust and a shared commitment to exploring new creative avenues.

Yokoyama highlighted Sega's acceptance of potential failure as a key factor, stating that they don't shy away from projects that aren't guaranteed successes. He suggested this risk-taking is ingrained in Sega's DNA, citing the creation of Shenmue as an example of their willingness to experiment. Shenmue, an action-adventure series, originated from the idea of blending the Virtua Fighter IP with RPG elements.

RGG Studio assures fans that the simultaneous development of these projects won't compromise quality, particularly for the Virtua Fighter series. With the support of original Virtua Fighter creator Yu Suzuki, and the team's commitment to avoid a half-baked product, high expectations are being met.

Producer Riichiro Yamada emphasized the innovative nature of the new Virtua Fighter project, aiming to create something "cool and interesting" for both existing fans and newcomers. Both Yokoyama and Yamada expressed excitement and anticipation for the release of both titles.