Sega's Risk-Taking Approach Fuels RGG Studio's Ambitious Projects
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio) thrives on its ability to juggle multiple large-scale projects simultaneously. This remarkable capacity, according to the studio, is a direct result of Sega's willingness to embrace risk and innovation, venturing beyond the confines of guaranteed success. Let's delve into the exciting projects on the horizon for the creators of the Like a Dragon series.
Sega Embraces Risk, Fostering New IPs and Concepts
RGG Studio currently has several major projects underway, including a brand-new IP. Even with a new Like a Dragon title and a Virtua Fighter remake slated for 2025, the studio has added two more ambitious projects to its development pipeline. Studio head and director, Masayoshi Yokoyama, attributes this opportunity 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's official channel showcased the trailer for a new Virtua Fighter project (distinct from the forthcoming Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. remaster). The scale and ambition evident in both projects underscore the studio's drive. Sega, with its portfolio of established IPs, demonstrates unwavering confidence in RGG Studio's ability to deliver, reflecting a blend of trust and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
“Sega's willingness to accept the possibility of failure, rather than solely focusing on safe bets, is a significant strength,” Yokoyama shared with Famitsu, as translated by Automaton Media. He further suggested that this risk-taking approach is deeply ingrained in Sega's DNA. He recalled Sega's early days with the Virtua Fighter IP, explaining that their desire for something new led to the question, "What if we made ‘VF’ into an RPG?"—thus birthing the action-adventure series Shenmue.
RGG Studio assures fans that the simultaneous development of these two projects will not compromise quality, particularly concerning the Virtua Fighter series. Series creator Yu Suzuki has expressed his support for the new project, and with Virtua Fighter as one of Sega's enduring IPs, Yokoyama, Virtua Fighter Project producer Riichiro Yamada, and their team are committed to delivering a high-quality product.
Yamada added, “Our goal with the new ‘VF’ is to create something innovative and captivating for a broad audience. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, we hope you'll eagerly anticipate further updates.” Yokoyama echoed this sentiment, expressing his excitement for both upcoming titles.
