Sega is exploring the possibility of introducing a video game subscription service similar to Netflix, a development that could significantly hasten the industry’s shift towards streaming.
Several comparable services are available, including Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus. These platforms allow gamers to pay a monthly subscription fee to access various titles rather than purchasing them outright.
Sega’s president, Shuji Utsumi, told the BBC that subscription products are “exciting,” adding that the company is currently “evaluating some opportunities.”
“We are currently engaged in discussions about a matter that we are unable to disclose at this time,” he stated.
Concerns have been raised within the industry regarding the recent move, with some sources telling the BBC that it may lead to gamers “shelling out more money” on various subscription services.
The landscape of game subscriptions has expanded beyond just Sony and Microsoft. Numerous competitors have emerged, with companies like Nintendo, EA, and Ubisoft introducing their membership offerings.
A range of Sega games can be found on several streaming platforms.
The fees associated with these services fluctuate based on the specific features and games they offer. The pricing structure for Xbox Game Pass varies between £6.99 and £14.99 per month, whereas PlayStation Plus offers a range from £6.99 to £13.49 monthly.
Sega’s decision to encourage players of its titles to opt for subscription fees appears to be a financially strategic move, positioning itself advantageously against its competitors.
The platform may appeal primarily to those interested in Sega games; however, it could increase expenses for the broader audience.
Rachel Howie, known to her fans as DontRachQuit, streams her gaming sessions on Twitch. She expressed feelings of both excitement and concern regarding the introduction of another subscription service.
“With numerous subscriptions already in place, she expressed to the BBC the challenges of justifying adding another one.”
“SEGA is poised to attract a dedicated core audience that stands to gain from this development. However, the question remains: will the average gamer opt for this option over alternatives such as Game Pass?”
Sophie Smart, the Production Director at UK developer No More Robots, agreed.
“Having grown up with the Sega Mega Drive as my first console, I truly hope to see Sega flourish again, and this seems to be a move towards a more contemporary future,” she expressed.
She questioned whether Sega’s potential launch of a rival subscription service would result in removing their games from existing platforms.
“If this is the case, it may indicate that consumers are increasingly spending on various subscription services,” she stated.
The revival of Sega
Shuji Utsumi spoke with the BBC in anticipation of the upcoming premiere of Sonic 3 this Saturday. This follows a year marked by his leadership in the launches of Metaphor: ReFantazio, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and the newest instalment in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise.
The conversation began in an unforeseen manner.
Mr. Utsumi’s initial remarks hinted at a concerning reality for the firm that once reigned supreme in the gaming industry during the 1990s, marked by the fierce competition between Sonic the Hedgehog and Nintendo’s Super Mario. The company may have strayed from its original path.
“I aim to restore Sega to its former glory,” he stated.
Sega has been criticized for concentrating excessively on its domestic achievements in Japan. According to sources, the company must re-establish its presence on the global stage, which necessitates an expansion beyond its traditional market.
“Sega appears to be experiencing a decline in confidence,” he stated.
“But why is that the case?” Sega boasts a strong RPG division and impressive intellectual properties and is widely recognized as a prominent brand in the gaming industry. At that moment, I realized it was crucial to adopt a more proactive approach rather than a defensive stance.
Upon his arrival, the new leader expressed that the company was overly focused on cost control, intending to infuse the gaming industry with a “rock and roll mentality.”
When I mentioned that the concept seemed reminiscent of Sega’s marketing strategies in the 1990s, which frequently portrayed Sonic the Hedgehog as the edgy alternative to Mario, he concurred.
According to his statement, the firm is now tasked with the imperative of creating an exceptional game in the series.
“The upcoming game promises to be both challenging and exciting, according to his remarks.”
However, he refrained from disclosing whether Sega is contemplating a sequel to the beloved Sonic Adventure series.
“Sonic Adventure marked a significant turning point for the Sonic franchise,” he stated.
“The upcoming release is expected to impress, as the goal is to meet or surpass public expectations. This ambition necessitates additional time for development.”
The Chao Garden, a beloved feature from the Sonic Adventure series, is among the elements fans are eagerly hoping to see make a comeback.
Mr. Utsumi acknowledged ongoing discussions, stating, “We’ve been talking about it,” yet refrained from providing additional details, emphasizing that he could not “say too much about it.”
Sega is poised to navigate the evolving landscape of the gaming industry with strategic plans that could redefine its role in the market. As the company looks ahead, it faces challenges and opportunities that will shape its trajectory in the coming years.
Mr. Utsumi highlighted the firm’s achievements this year, securing several gaming awards for the new intellectual property Metaphor: ReFantazio, developed by the team responsible for the Persona series.
The firm has faced challenges recently, including job cuts in March and a delay in the release of Football Manager 2025, now scheduled for next year.
“It was a difficult choice,” he remarked regarding the layoffs that resulted in 240 individuals losing their positions.
“However, resetting the initiative necessitates making that difficult choice.”
He stated that the release of Football Manager has been postponed due to “a quality issue.”
“From a financial perspective, offering the game in its early stages could be the more advantageous option.” However, we decided to maintain our quality standards and uphold that discipline.
He also discussed Sega’s performance beyond the gaming sector, highlighting a series of film and television adaptations, culminating in the release of the third Sonic the Hedgehog movie this Saturday.
The recent film I viewed was exhilarating and enjoyable. Continuing that level of excitement would undoubtedly be welcomed.
