SEGA Eyes Global Rollout for 'Persona 5: The Phantom X'

Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Launch in the Works?

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 global expansion is currently under consideration.

Limited Beta Release

Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially launched in a soft-launch open beta phase. It debuted 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 Black Wings Game Studio (China).

Players assume the role of "Wonder," a high school student by day and a Phantom Thief by night. Teaming up with Joker (from the main Persona 5 series) and a new character, YUI, Wonder battles injustice using Personas.

Wonder's initial Persona, Janosik, is inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodies a Robin Hood-esque archetype. The game retains the core turn-based combat, social links, and dungeon crawling elements of the Persona series, integrating a gacha system for character acquisition.

New Roguelike Mode: Heart Rail

A recent gameplay video showcases the new "Heart Rail" roguelike mode, similar to Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe. This mode features power-up selection, varied maps, and stage completion rewards.

SEGA's Strong Performance and Future Plans

SEGA reported robust sales for its "Full Game" category, citing successes like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (1 million units in its first week), Persona 3 Reload (1 million units in its first week – Atlus' fastest ever), and Football Manager 2024 (9 million players).

Looking ahead, SEGA is restructuring its business, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment that emphasizes online gaming, aiming to establish a strong presence in the North American market. The FY2025 forecast projects increased sales and profits, with the Full Game segment targeting 93 billion Yen (approximately US$597 million). A new Sonic game is also slated for release next year.