Sega is pointing to shopper expectations for “definitive editions” as one potential trigger behind lower-than-expected gross sales for a few of its latest video games.
As noticed by GameBiz, the Sonic the Hedgehog and Persona firm opened up about its efficiency all through the previous couple of months throughout a Q2 monetary briefing Q&A session with shareholders yesterday. The dialog (through Automaton) noticed Sega tackle the thought course of behind why gross sales for its new premium and free-to-play video games failed to satisfy expectations regardless of usually constructive evaluations from critics and followers.
Sega says a lot of components could possibly be contributing to disappointing returns, together with competitors from different releases inside the identical style, in addition to launch costs. The gaming writer additionally instructed avid gamers could possibly be passing on buying video games at launch as a result of an expectation they’ll finally have the ability to buy “definitive editions” of those self same titles additional down the road.
Definitive editions, which usually embody online game re-releases with comparatively minor visible upgrades and extra content material, have change into a well-liked tactic for publishers to make the most of all through the final decade. Sega is not any stranger to the thought both, particularly in terms of Persona and Shin Megami Tensei developer Atlus.
The studio has a historical past of pushing re-releases for video games like Persona 4 and 5, which acquired Golden and Royal variations a number of years after their preliminary launches. There’s additionally Shin Megami Tensei V, which initially launched in 2021 and went on to return to extra platforms with its Vengeance counterpart in 2024. Atlus’ newest, Metaphor: ReFantazio, launched for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Collection X and S late final yr.
Sega didn’t particularly name out any recreation or franchise when pointing to its definitive version idea. The corporate additionally usually appears hesitant to straight place the blame on anyone issue for now.
“Whereas we haven’t been in a position to pinpoint a exact reason behind [the lower-than-expected sales performance], we consider the issue additionally lies in our advertising and marketing, which wasn’t in a position to sufficiently convey the enchantment of our video games to customers,” a Sega spokesperson instructed buyers.
It’s unclear if Metaphor: ReFantazio or every other Sega sequence will obtain a definitive version or equal re-release sooner or later. For now, followers are eagerly awaiting any information Atlus might must share about Persona 6. A Persona 3 remake, subtitled Reload, launched early final yr, with Persona 4 Revival set to give its sequel the identical therapy someday within the close to future. Sega can be persevering with to roll out new content material for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, which launched in September.
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Michael Cripe is a contract author with IGN. He is finest recognized for his work at websites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Remember to give him a observe on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).
