SEGA is exploring a global launch for Persona 5: The Phantom X, as revealed in their latest financial report. Let's delve into the details.
SEGA's financial report for the fiscal year ending March 2024 indicates that Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X), the gacha spin-off, is being considered for release in both Japan and globally. The report notes the game's initial sales are meeting expectations, and international expansion is currently under review.
Licensed by Atlus, Persona 5: The Phantom X initially soft-launched in China (April 12, 2024), followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan (April 18, 2024). Published by Perfect World Games (South Korea) and developed by Black Wings Game Studio (China), the game is currently in open beta.
Players assume the role of "Wonder," a high school student by day and a Persona-wielding Phantom Thief by night, joining forces with other Persona users to combat societal injustices.
Wonder's initial Persona is Janosik, inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodying a Robin Hood archetype. The Joker (from the main Persona 5 series) and a new character, YUI, are also part of the team.
The game retains the turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling elements of the Persona series, incorporating a gacha system for character acquisition.
SEGA reported consistent sales of new titles from its Japanese studios, along with continued sales of previous releases. Notable examples include Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (1 million units sold globally in its first week), Persona 3 Reload (1 million units globally in its first week, Atlus' fastest-selling title), and Football Manager 2024 (9 million players since its November launch).
SEGA announced a restructuring, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment. This segment will prioritize online gaming, aiming to establish a significant presence in the North American market as a third pillar of its business model. The segment will also encompass slot machine development and integrated resort operations.
For FY2025, SEGA projects increased sales and profits compared to the previous year. The Full Game segment anticipates 93 billion Yen (approximately USD 597 million) in revenue, a 5.4% increase from FY2024. A new Sonic title is also planned for next year.