SEGA Explores Global Launch for Persona 5: The Phantom X

Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Launch a Possibility

SEGA's latest financial report hints at a potential global release for Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X). The report indicates that the game's initial performance is meeting expectations and that international expansion beyond Japan is under consideration.

Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions

Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially launched in a soft-launch open beta phase in China (April 12, 2024), followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan (April 18, 2024). Perfect World Games (South Korea) publishes, with development handled by Black Wings Game Studio (China).

Players control a new silent protagonist, "Wonder," a high school student by day and Phantom Thief by night, fighting societal injustices alongside familiar faces and new allies. Wonder's initial Persona is Janosik, inspired by Slovakian folklore, embodying a Robin Hood archetype. The Joker from the main Persona 5 series and a new character, YUI, are also key members of the team.

The game retains the core turn-based combat, social links, and dungeon crawling of the Persona series, adding a gacha system for character acquisition.

New Roguelike Mode: Heart Rail

A recent gameplay showcase by prominent Persona content creator, Faz, highlights the new "Heart Rail" roguelike mode. This mode bears resemblance to Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe, featuring power-up choices, varied maps, and stage-completion rewards.

SEGA's Strong Full Game Sales

SEGA reported consistent sales for new titles from its Japanese studios, along with continued sales of previous releases. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth sold over 1 million units globally in its first week (January 26th), while Persona 3 Reload achieved the same milestone, setting a new Atlus record for fastest 1 million sales (February). Football Manager 2024 attracted 9 million players since its November launch.

SEGA's FY25 Outlook and Business Restructuring

SEGA announced a business 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 business pillar. The segment also encompasses SEGA SAMMY CREATION's slot machine operations and PARADISE SEGASAMMY's integrated resort businesses.

SEGA projects increased sales and profits for FY2025, with the Full Game segment targeting 93 billion Yen (approximately 597 billion USD), a 5.4% increase. A new Sonic title is also planned for next year.