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 juggle multiple large-scale projects simultaneously. This includes a brand-new IP and a fresh take on a classic franchise. Discover more about the studio's exciting future endeavors.
Sega Embraces Bold New IPs and Concepts
RGG Studio, renowned for the Like a Dragon series, is currently developing several major projects, including a completely original IP. Despite already having a new Like a Dragon game and a Virtua Fighter remake slated for 2025, they've added two more titles to their impressive lineup. Studio head and director Masayoshi Yokoyama credits Sega's risk-tolerant approach for this opportunity.
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 trailer for a new Virtua Fighter project (separate from the upcoming Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. remaster) on Sega's official channel. The scale and ambition of these projects highlight the studio's drive for innovation. Sega's confidence in RGG Studio underscores a strong relationship built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to exploring uncharted territory.
"Sega embraces the potential for failure, rather than solely pursuing safe bets," Yokoyama told Famitsu, as translated by Automaton Media. He sees this risk-taking as integral to Sega's identity. He points to the creation of Shenmue as an example; born from Sega's desire to push boundaries after their early work with Virtua Fighter, they asked, "What if we made ‘VF’ into an RPG?"
RGG Studio assures fans that the simultaneous development of these projects won't compromise quality, especially for the Virtua Fighter series. Original Virtua Fighter creator Yu Suzuki has voiced his support for the new project. Yokoyama, Virtua Fighter Project producer Riichiro Yamada, and their team are committed to delivering a high-quality experience, stating they "have no intention of making something half-baked."
Yamada added, "With the new ‘VF,’ we aim to create something innovative and exciting for a broad audience! Whether you're a series veteran or a newcomer, we hope you'll eagerly anticipate further updates." Yokoyama echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement for both upcoming titles.
