Sega Weighs 'Persona 5: The Phantom X' Global Launch

SEGA's Latest Financial Report Hints at Global Persona 5: The Phantom X Release

SEGA's recent financial report for the fiscal year ending March 2024 reveals that a global release of Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X) is under consideration. The report indicates that the game's initial performance in Japan and select regions is meeting expectations, prompting exploration of broader international distribution.

Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions

Initially soft-launched in China on April 12th, 2024, and subsequently in Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan on April 18th, P5X is currently in open beta. Developed by Black Wings Game Studio (a subsidiary of Perfect World Games), the mobile and PC title casts players as "Wonder," a high school student who moonlights as a Persona-wielding Phantom Thief. Wonder's team includes the familiar Joker from the main Persona 5 series, along with a new character, YUI. The game features the series' signature turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling elements, complemented by a gacha system for character acquisition.

New Roguelike Game Mode: Heart Rail

A new roguelike game mode, "Heart Rail," has been introduced, drawing comparisons to Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe. This mode offers players power-ups, varied maps, and rewards for successful stage completion. A gameplay showcase by Persona content creator, Faz, highlights this new addition. [Link to Faz's video showcasing Heart Rail]

SEGA's Strong Performance and Future Plans

SEGA reported strong sales for various titles, including Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (1 million units sold in its first week), Persona 3 Reload (1 million units in its first week, the fastest ever for an Atlus title), and Football Manager 2024 (9 million players since launch). The company also announced structural changes, establishing a new "Gaming Business" segment focused on online gaming expansion, particularly in North America. This segment will also incorporate Sega Sammy Creation's slot machine business and Paradise Sega Sammy's integrated resort operations.

SEGA forecasts increased sales and profits for FY2025, projecting 93 billion Yen (approximately $597 million USD) in revenue for the Full Game segment – a 5.4% increase year-on-year. The company also anticipates the release of a new Sonic title in the coming year. The positive financial outlook and the mention of global expansion for P5X suggest a promising future for SEGA.