Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Launch Under Consideration by SEGA
SEGA's recent financial report hints at a potential global release for Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X). The report indicates that the game's performance in its initial launch regions is meeting expectations, and a global expansion is being actively considered.
Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions
Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially soft-launched in China on April 12, 2024, followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan on April 18. Currently in open beta, the mobile and PC title is published by Perfect World Games (South Korea) and developed by Black Wings Game Studio (China).
Players assume the role of "Wonder," a high school student by day and Persona-wielding Phantom Thief by night. The story follows Wonder and their team as they combat societal injustices.
Wonder's initial Persona is Janosik, inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodying a Robin Hood archetype. The original Persona 5 protagonist, Joker, and a new character, YUI, also feature prominently.
P5X retains the turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling elements of the Persona series, but integrates a gacha system for character acquisition.
New Roguelike Mode: Heart Rail
A recent gameplay showcase by prominent Persona content creator Faz highlights the new "Heart Rail" roguelike game mode. This mode shares similarities with Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe, offering power-up choices, varied maps, and stage completion rewards.
SEGA's Strong Full Game Sales and Future Plans
SEGA reported robust sales for its "Full Game" category, including Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Persona 3 Reload, and Football Manager 2024, all achieving significant sales milestones.
SEGA announced restructuring, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment encompassing online gaming, slot machine development/sales, and integrated resort operations. The company projects increased sales and profits for FY2025, with the Full Game segment anticipating a 5.4% year-on-year growth. A new Sonic title is also slated for release next year.
