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 worldwide 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 global expansion is currently under consideration.

Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions

Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially launched in a soft-launch open beta phase in China on April 12, 2024, followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan on April 18. Perfect World Games (South Korea) publishes the title, developed by its subsidiary, Black Wings Game Studio (China).

Players assume the role of "Wonder," a high school student by day and a Persona-wielding Phantom Thief by night, battling societal injustices alongside familiar faces and new allies.

Wonder's initial Persona, Janosik (inspired by Slovakian folklore), embodies a Robin Hood-esque persona. The Joker from the main Persona 5 series joins Wonder's team, along with a new character, YUI.

Maintaining the core elements of the Persona series – turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon exploration – P5X incorporates 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, similar to Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe, offers power-up choices, diverse map exploration, and rewarding stage completion.

SEGA's Strong Performance and Future Plans

SEGA reported consistent sales for new and existing titles within its "Full Game" category. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth and Persona 3 Reload each achieved 1 million global sales within their first week of release, setting a new record for Atlus with Persona 3 Reload. Football Manager 2024 boasts 9 million players since its November launch.

Looking ahead, SEGA plans a restructuring, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment that will prioritize online gaming, aiming to establish a strong presence in the North American market as a key business pillar. This segment will also encompass SEGA SAMMY CREATION's slot machine operations and PARADISE SEGASAMMY's integrated resort businesses.

For FY2025, SEGA projects increased sales and profits, with the Full Game segment aiming for 93 billion Yen (approximately $597 million USD) in revenue – a 5.4% increase year-on-year. A new Sonic title is also anticipated for release next year.