SEGA's Project Century and Virtua Fighter Showcase Risk-Taking

Sega's Risk-Taking Approach Fuels RGG Studio's Ambitious Projects

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio) credits Sega's willingness to embrace risk as the driving force behind its ability to juggle multiple large-scale projects simultaneously. This includes a brand-new IP and a surprising twist on a classic franchise. Read on to discover more about RGG Studio's exciting upcoming titles.

Sega Embraces Innovation and New IPs

RGG Studio currently has several major projects underway, including a completely original IP. Despite already having the next Like a Dragon installment and a Virtua Fighter remake slated for 2025, they've added two more titles to their development pipeline. Studio head and director Masayoshi Yokoyama attributes this to Sega's open embrace of risk.

In early December, RGG unveiled trailers for two distinct projects within a single week. Project Century, a new IP set in 1915 Japan, debuted at The Game Awards 2025. The following day, Sega's official channel showcased a trailer for a new Virtua Fighter project (separate from the upcoming Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. remaster). The scale and ambition of both projects highlight the studio's bold vision. Sega's confidence in RGG Studio, a blend of trust and a desire for innovation, is evident.

"Sega accepts the possibility of failure; it doesn't solely pursue safe bets," Yokoyama explained to Famitsu, as translated by Automaton Media. He suggests this risk-taking approach is ingrained in Sega's DNA. He cites the early days of the Virtua Fighter franchise as an example, explaining Sega's desire to explore new avenues led to the creation of Shenmue, born from the question: "What if we made 'VF' into an RPG?"

RGG Studio assures fans that the simultaneous development of these projects won't compromise quality, particularly for the Virtua Fighter series. Series creator Yu Suzuki has voiced his support for the new project. Yokoyama, Virtua Fighter Project producer Riichiro Yamada, and their team are committed to avoiding a subpar outcome, leveraging Virtua Fighter's legacy as one of Sega's enduring IPs.

Yamada added, "With the new 'VF,' we aim to create something innovative that will resonate with a broad audience. Whether you're a series veteran or not, we encourage you to stay tuned for updates!" Yokoyama echoed this sentiment, expressing his hope that gamers will eagerly anticipate both titles.