Persona 5: Sega Weighs Global Phantom X Expansion

SEGA Weighs Global Launch for Persona 5: The Phantom X

Will Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X) grace American shores? SEGA's recent financial report hints at a potential global release, alongside a Japanese launch, for the popular gacha spin-off. The report indicates that P5X's initial performance is meeting expectations and that international expansion is under active consideration.

Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions

Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially soft-launched in China (April 12, 2024), followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan (April 18, 2024). Currently in open beta, the game is published by Perfect World Games (South Korea) and developed by 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. Wonder joins a team to fight societal injustices, alongside familiar faces like Joker (from the main Persona 5 series) and a new character, YUI. Wonder's initial Persona is Janosik, inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodying a Robin Hood-esque persona.

The game retains the core elements of the Persona series – turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling – but introduces 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 bears resemblance to Honkai Star Rail's Simulated Universe, featuring power-up selection, map exploration, and stage-completion rewards.

SEGA's Strong Full Game Sales

SEGA reported consistent sales of new titles in its "Full Game" category, including strong performance from Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Persona 3 Reload, and Football Manager 2024.

SEGA's FY25 Outlook and Restructuring

SEGA announced a restructuring, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment encompassing online gaming, slot machine development/sales (SEGA SAMMY CREATION), and integrated resort operations (PARADISE SEGASAMMY). The company projects increased sales and profits for FY2025, with the Full Game segment aiming for 93 billion Yen (approximately USD 597 million). A new Sonic title is also anticipated for next year.