SEGA Has Plans To Revive Legacy IPs, Create “Global Hits”

Sonic the Hedgehog, SEGA’s venerable mascot, has two upcoming titles slated for release later this year. However, beyond his franchise, SEGA has a rich library of properties. And, if the company’s latest report is any indication, some of them will be returning.

SEGA PLANS TO REVIVE OLD IPS, “CHALLENGE FOR” NEW ONES

According to their “Road to 2020” presentation, SEGA has plans to revitalize their retail and digital venues.

Digital game field:

• Create titles that will become global hits
• Establish digital marketing business
• Expand overseas publishing business
• Maintain profits through long-term operation of existing titles
• Develop next-generation titles

Packaged game field:

• Expand existing IPs and obtain new IPs for North American and European PC games
• Build revenue base by being entrusted with outsourced development
• Challenge for new IPs
• Revival of major IPs
• Effective utilization of development engines

Notably, the general thesis behind their goal is simple: “Create titles that will become global hits.” Three significant markets – mobile platforms, gaming consoles and computers – will be used to foster these successes. The report in its entirety is worth a look, by the way. Interestingly, it’s also stated that Sonic will henceforth be predominantly developed in North America.

Notably, SEGA hasn’t enjoyed too much good fortune these past few years, with the company having announced downsizing plans back in January 2015. Thankfully, it seems their situation is improving, given the “recovery trend” for their profitability.

Anyway, the prospect of revivals and new franchises is always exciting. In terms of SEGA’s back catalog, what would you like to see revisited? Personally, most of all, I’m rooting for Bayonetta and, assuming Sonic Team can recapture the magic of the original, NiGHTS.