Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Release Being Considered by SEGA

Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Launch on the Horizon?

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 initial performance is meeting expectations and that international expansion, including a global launch, is under consideration.

Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions

Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially launched in open beta for select Asian markets. The April 12th, 2024 China launch was followed by releases in Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan on April 18th. Perfect World Games (South Korea) publishes the title, developed by their Chinese subsidiary, Black Wings Game Studio.

Players control a new silent protagonist, "Wonder," a high school student by day and Persona-wielding Phantom Thief by night. Wonder's mission: to combat societal injustices alongside Joker (from the Persona 5 series) and a new character, YUI. Wonder's initial Persona is Janosik, inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodying a Robin Hood archetype.

The game blends familiar Persona elements – turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling – with a gacha system for character acquisition.

New Roguelike Mode: Heart Rail

A recent gameplay video by prominent Persona YouTuber, Faz, showcases the new "Heart Rail" roguelike game mode. This mode bears resemblance to Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe, offering power-up choices, varied maps, and stage completion rewards.

SEGA's Strong Performance and Future Plans

SEGA reported robust sales for its "Full Game" category, including strong initial sales for Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Persona 3 Reload, and Football Manager 2024.

SEGA is restructuring its business, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment focused on online gaming. This reflects their ambition to expand their online gaming presence in North America, establishing it as a key pillar of their business strategy. They also forecast increased sales and profits for FY2025, anticipating a new Sonic title for next year.