Sega's Risk-Taking Approach Fuels RGG Studio's Ambitious Projects
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio) is tackling multiple large-scale projects simultaneously, a feat attributed to Sega's willingness to embrace risk and innovation. Discover the exciting new titles on the horizon from the creators of the Like a Dragon series!
Sega Embraces Risk for New IPs and Concepts
RGG Studio currently has several major projects underway, including a brand-new IP. Despite already planning the next Like a Dragon installment and a Virtua Fighter remake for 2025, they've added two more titles to their development slate. Studio head and director Masayoshi Yokoyama credits Sega's risk-tolerant culture for this ambitious undertaking.
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, followed by a reveal of the new Virtua Fighter Project (separate from the upcoming Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. remaster) on Sega's official channel. The scale of these projects underscores the studio's bold vision. Sega's confidence in RGG, a blend of trust and a desire for innovation, is evident.
"Sega accepts the possibility of failure; it doesn't solely focus on safe bets," Yokoyama told Famitsu, as translated by Automaton Media. He suggests this risk-taking is inherent to Sega's DNA, citing the creation of Shenmue as an example. The Shenmue action-adventure series originated from Sega's desire to explore new avenues after their work on Virtua Fighter, leading to 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 regarding the Virtua Fighter series. Series creator Yu Suzuki has expressed his support for the new project, and with Virtua Fighter being one of Sega's iconic IPs, Yokoyama, Virtua Fighter Project producer Riichiro Yamada, and their team are committed to delivering a high-quality product.
Yamada added, "With the new 'VF,' we aim to create something innovative and exciting for everyone! Whether you're a fan or not, we hope you'll anticipate further updates." Yokoyama echoed this sentiment, expressing his excitement for both upcoming titles.
