Sega is charting new waters as it considers launching a Netflix-like subscription service for video games, a move that could accelerate the industry's shift toward streaming. With solid competition from existing subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus, which offer gamers access to a diverse range of titles for a monthly fee, Sega sees an opportunity to establish its own unique service.
Sega’s president, Shuji Utsumi, spoke with the BBC, referring to subscription services as "very interesting" and noted that plans are in the works, albeit not yet disclosed. "We're thinking something - and discussing something - we cannot disclose right now," he stated, hinting at possible developments on the horizon.
While the concept excites many, some industry players voice apprehensions about gamers potentially spending more on various subscriptions. Utsumi acknowledged that Sega's titles are currently spread across multiple streaming platforms, creating an environment where introducing a direct subscription service could appeal to dedicated Sega fans. However, it raises questions about how existing services could be impacted, particularly regarding access and pricing.
As the industry becomes increasingly crowded with competitors like Nintendo, EA, and Ubisoft also offering similar models, many consumers find themselves evaluating whether it's worth joining yet another service. Gamers like Rachel Howie express mixed feelings about the saturation of subscription options, recognizing the allure for Sega fans but remaining skeptical about broader appeal. "We have so many subscriptions already that we find it very difficult to justify signing up for a new one," she explained.
In a wider context, Utsumi aims to enhance Sega's global presence, emphasizing the need to break away from a Japan-centric focus. "Sega has been somehow losing confidence," he remarked, reflecting on the company’s illustrious past dominated by its rivalry with Nintendo. He expressed a vision to reignite that former glory: "I want to make Sega really shiny again."
Highlighting recent titles under his leadership, Utsumi discussed the success of games such as Metaphor: ReFantazio, but also voiced challenges. Sega endured workforce reductions earlier this year and faced delays with its Football Manager franchise, prioritizing quality over speed. "When you reset the initiative, you have to make that hard decision," he stated regarding the layoffs.
Looking ahead, fans remain hopeful for a resurgence of beloved features associated with Sega's iconic titles like the Chao Garden, a virtual pet feature from the Sonic Adventure games. While Utsumi hinted at ongoing discussions about the Chao Garden's potential return, he cautioned against sharing too many specifics.
As Sega navigates its future in the fast-evolving gaming world, Utsumi's goal remains clear: to continue innovating and pushing boundaries in game design while evaluating fresh strategies such as subscription services that could pave the way for a brighter, reimagined Sega.
Sega’s president, Shuji Utsumi, spoke with the BBC, referring to subscription services as "very interesting" and noted that plans are in the works, albeit not yet disclosed. "We're thinking something - and discussing something - we cannot disclose right now," he stated, hinting at possible developments on the horizon.
While the concept excites many, some industry players voice apprehensions about gamers potentially spending more on various subscriptions. Utsumi acknowledged that Sega's titles are currently spread across multiple streaming platforms, creating an environment where introducing a direct subscription service could appeal to dedicated Sega fans. However, it raises questions about how existing services could be impacted, particularly regarding access and pricing.
As the industry becomes increasingly crowded with competitors like Nintendo, EA, and Ubisoft also offering similar models, many consumers find themselves evaluating whether it's worth joining yet another service. Gamers like Rachel Howie express mixed feelings about the saturation of subscription options, recognizing the allure for Sega fans but remaining skeptical about broader appeal. "We have so many subscriptions already that we find it very difficult to justify signing up for a new one," she explained.
In a wider context, Utsumi aims to enhance Sega's global presence, emphasizing the need to break away from a Japan-centric focus. "Sega has been somehow losing confidence," he remarked, reflecting on the company’s illustrious past dominated by its rivalry with Nintendo. He expressed a vision to reignite that former glory: "I want to make Sega really shiny again."
Highlighting recent titles under his leadership, Utsumi discussed the success of games such as Metaphor: ReFantazio, but also voiced challenges. Sega endured workforce reductions earlier this year and faced delays with its Football Manager franchise, prioritizing quality over speed. "When you reset the initiative, you have to make that hard decision," he stated regarding the layoffs.
Looking ahead, fans remain hopeful for a resurgence of beloved features associated with Sega's iconic titles like the Chao Garden, a virtual pet feature from the Sonic Adventure games. While Utsumi hinted at ongoing discussions about the Chao Garden's potential return, he cautioned against sharing too many specifics.
As Sega navigates its future in the fast-evolving gaming world, Utsumi's goal remains clear: to continue innovating and pushing boundaries in game design while evaluating fresh strategies such as subscription services that could pave the way for a brighter, reimagined Sega.
