Sega is pointing to shopper expectations for “definitive editions” as one potential trigger behind lower-than-expected gross sales for a few of its current 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 (by way of Automaton) noticed Sega deal with the thought course of behind why gross sales for its new premium and free-to-play video games failed to satisfy expectations regardless of typically optimistic evaluations from critics and followers.
Sega says a variety of components may be contributing to disappointing returns, together with competitors from different releases throughout the identical style, in addition to launch costs. The gaming writer additionally advised players may be passing on buying video games at launch as a consequence of an expectation they’ll finally be in a position 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 turn out to be 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 with regards to 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 just a few 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 principle. The corporate additionally typically appears hesitant to instantly place the blame on anybody issue for now.
“Whereas we haven’t been in a position to pinpoint a exact reason behind [the lower-than-expected sales performance], we imagine the issue additionally lies in our advertising, 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 some other Sega collection will obtain a definitive version or equal re-release sooner or later. For now, followers are eagerly awaiting any information Atlus might should 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 also 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 identified for his work at websites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Remember to give him a comply with on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).