Project Century and Virtua Fighter Project Shows Sega's Willingness to Take Risks

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, renowned for the Like a Dragon series, currently has several 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 credits Sega's open embrace of risk for these opportunities.

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). The scale of these projects reflects the studio's ambition, and Sega's confidence in RGG's ability to deliver. This reflects a combination of trust and a desire to explore uncharted territory.

Yokoyama highlighted Sega's acceptance of potential failure as a key factor, stating that Sega doesn't solely focus on guaranteed successes. He suggests this risk-taking is ingrained in Sega's DNA, citing the creation of Shenmue as an example of their willingness to experiment—an RPG spin-off from their Virtua Fighter experience.

RGG Studio assures fans that the simultaneous development of these projects won't compromise quality, particularly for the Virtua Fighter series. Original creator Yu Suzuki has voiced his support, and the team, including producer Riichiro Yamada, is committed to delivering an innovative and engaging experience.

Yamada emphasized the team's goal to create a "cool and interesting" Virtua Fighter experience appealing to both existing fans and newcomers. Yokoyama expressed similar enthusiasm, urging gamers to anticipate both upcoming titles.