SEGA is exploring a global launch for Persona 5: The Phantom X, as revealed in its recent financial report. Let's delve into the details.
SEGA Weighs Global Release for P5X
Will Persona 5: The Phantom X Reach Western Shores?
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 that initial sales are meeting expectations and that international expansion is under review.
Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions
Licensed by Atlus, Persona 5: The Phantom X initially launched in a soft-launch open beta phase. The rollout began in China on April 12, 2024, followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan on April 18. Perfect World Games (South Korea) publishes the game, developed by its Chinese subsidiary, Black Wings Game Studio.
Players assume the role of "Wonder," a high school student by day and a Persona-wielding Phantom Thief by night. This Phantom Thief group aims to right societal wrongs stemming from corruption and greed.
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, join Wonder's team.
Like the main Persona games, P5X features turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling, but with a gacha system for character acquisition.
New Roguelike Mode: Heart Rail
Popular *Persona* content creator Faz showcased the new Heart Rail roguelike game mode in his gameplay video. This mode bears resemblance to *Honkai: Star Rail*'s Simulated Universe, offering power-up choices, varied maps, and stage completion rewards.
SEGA's Strong Performance in the Full Game Market
SEGA reported consistent sales of new titles from its Japanese studios, along with continued sales of previously released games. Strong performers included Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (1 million units sold globally in its first week), Persona 3 Reload (1 million units in its first week, Atlus' fastest ever), and Football Manager 2024 (9 million players since launch).
SEGA's FY25 Outlook and Restructuring
SEGA announced a restructuring, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment. The company plans to expand its online gaming presence in North America, aiming to establish it as a key business pillar.
This new segment will also encompass SEGA SAMMY CREATION's slot machine development and sales, and PARADISE SEGASAMMY's integrated resort operations.
SEGA projects increased sales and profits for FY2025, with the Full Game segment anticipating 93 billion Yen (approximately 597 billion USD) in revenue—a 5.4% increase from FY2024. A new Sonic title is also planned for next year.