RGG Studio's ability to juggle multiple large-scale projects simultaneously is a testament to Sega's risk-taking approach to game development. This willingness to venture beyond safe bets has enabled the studio to pursue ambitious new IPs and innovative takes on established franchises.
Sega Embraces Risk, Fostering Innovation
RGG Studio, renowned for the Like a Dragon series, currently has several major projects underway, including a brand-new IP. Despite already having a new Like a Dragon title and a Virtua Fighter remake planned for 2025, they've added two more projects to their slate. Studio head and director Masayoshi Yokoyama attributes this to Sega's culture of embracing risk.
In December, RGG unveiled trailers for two distinct projects: Project Century, a new IP set in 1915 Japan, and a new Virtua Fighter project (separate from the Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O remaster). These large-scale projects showcase the studio's ambition and Sega's confidence in their ability to deliver. Yokoyama highlighted Sega's acceptance of potential failure as a key factor, contrasting it with a solely safe-bet approach. He cited the creation of Shenmue as an example of Sega's innovative spirit, born from the question: "What if we made 'VF' into an RPG?"
RGG Studio assures fans that the simultaneous development of these projects won't compromise quality, particularly for the Virtua Fighter series. Original creator Yu Suzuki has expressed his support for the new project, and the team, led by Yokoyama and producer Riichiro Yamada, is committed to delivering an innovative and engaging experience.
Yamada emphasized their goal of creating something "cool and interesting" for a broad audience, regardless of prior familiarity with the franchise. Both Yokoyama and Yamada expressed their anticipation for fans to learn more about both titles.
