SEGA's Financial Report Hints at Global Release for Persona 5: The Phantom X
SEGA's recent financial report for the fiscal year ending March 2024 revealed that Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X), the gacha spin-off of the popular Persona 5, is being considered for a global release. The report indicated that the game's initial sales are meeting expectations and that expansion beyond its current regions is under consideration.
Currently in Open Beta, Limited Region Availability
Initially soft-launched in China on April 12, 2024, and subsequently in Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan on April 18th, P5X is currently in open beta. Published by Perfect World Games (South Korea) and developed by Black Wings Game Studio (China), the game casts players as "Wonder," a high school student by day and a Persona-wielding Phantom Thief by night. Wonder's team includes the iconic Joker from the Persona 5 series and a new character, YUI. The game features Janosik, a new Persona inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodying a Robin Hood archetype.
Gameplay and Features
Retaining the core elements of the Persona series – turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling – P5X incorporates a gacha system for character acquisition. A new roguelike game mode, "Heart Rail," similar to Honkai Star Rail's Simulated Universe, has been showcased by prominent Persona content creator Faz. This mode offers various power-ups, maps, and rewards. [Embed YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/nL5-gy5SKq0]
SEGA's Overall Performance and Future Plans
SEGA reported strong sales for its "Full Game" category, including titles like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Persona 3 Reload, and Football Manager 2024. The company is restructuring its business, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment focused on online gaming, aiming to establish a strong presence in the North American online gaming market. For FY2025, SEGA projects increased sales and profits, with the Full Game segment expecting a 5.4% year-on-year growth. A new Sonic title is also anticipated for next year. The positive financial outlook and strategic shift towards online gaming further strengthen the possibility of a global launch for Persona 5: The Phantom X.
