Sega's Risk-Taking Approach Fuels RGG Studio's Ambitious Projects
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio) thrives on Sega's willingness to embrace risk and innovation, enabling the studio to simultaneously develop multiple large-scale projects. Discover the exciting future planned for the creators of the Like a Dragon series!
Sega Embraces New IPs and Bold Ideas
RGG Studio is currently developing several significant projects, including a brand-new IP. Despite already having the next Like a Dragon title and a Virtua Fighter remake slated for 2025, the studio has added two more projects to its impressive lineup. 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 officially revealed 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 unwavering drive. Sega's confidence in RGG Studio, combined with its commitment to innovation, is evident.
"Sega's willingness to accept potential failure is a significant strength," Yokoyama told Famitsu (as translated by Automaton Media). "It's not afraid to pursue projects beyond the realm of guaranteed success. This risk-taking spirit is, in a sense, part of Sega's DNA." He further explained that this approach dates back to the early days of the Virtua Fighter franchise, where Sega's desire for something new led to the creation of the action-adventure series Shenmue, born from the question, "What if we made 'VF' into an RPG?"
RGG Studio assures fans that the simultaneous development of these projects will not compromise quality, particularly regarding the Virtua Fighter series. Series creator Yu Suzuki has voiced his support for the new project, and with Virtua Fighter being a cornerstone Sega IP, Yokoyama, Virtua Fighter Project producer Riichiro Yamada, and their team are committed to delivering a high-quality experience. There's no intention of releasing a subpar product.
Yamada added, "With this new 'VF,' we aim to create something innovative that will resonate with a wide audience. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, we hope you'll eagerly anticipate further updates." Yokoyama echoed this sentiment, expressing his hope that gamers will look forward to both titles.
