P5: SEGA Mulls Global Release

Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Launch Under Consideration by SEGA

SEGA's recent financial report hints at a potential global release for Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X). The report indicates that the game's performance in its initial launch regions is meeting expectations, and a global expansion is being actively considered.

Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions

Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially launched in a soft-launch open beta phase in China (April 12, 2024), followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan (April 18, 2024). Perfect World Games (South Korea) publishes the title, developed by their subsidiary, Black Wings Game Studio (China).

Players control a new silent protagonist, "Wonder," a high school student by day and a Phantom Thief by night, fighting alongside the original Joker and a new character, YUI. Wonder initially wields the Persona Janosik, inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodying a Robin Hood archetype.

The game retains the core turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon exploration elements of the Persona series, but integrates a gacha system for character acquisition.

New Roguelike Mode: Heart Rail

A recent gameplay video by prominent Persona content creator, Faz, showcases the new "Heart Rail" roguelike game mode. This mode bears resemblance to Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe, featuring power-up selection, varied map exploration, and stage completion rewards.

SEGA's Strong Full Game Sales & Future Plans

SEGA reported robust sales for its "Full Game" category, including Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (1 million units in its first week), Persona 3 Reload (1 million units in its first week – Atlus' fastest-selling title), and Football Manager 2024 (9 million players).

SEGA is restructuring its business, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment encompassing online gaming, slot machine development/sales (SEGA SAMMY CREATION), and integrated resort operations (PARADISE SEGASAMMY). They project increased sales and profits for FY2025, with the Full Game segment aiming for 93 billion Yen (approximately $597 million USD). A new Sonic title is also anticipated for next year.