Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Launch Under Consideration
SEGA's recent financial report hints at a potential worldwide release for Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X). The report indicates that the game's performance in its initial release is meeting expectations, and global expansion is being actively considered.
Currently in Open Beta, Limited Regions
Licensed by Atlus, P5X initially launched in open beta in China (April 12, 2024), followed by Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan (April 18, 2024). Perfect World Games (South Korea) publishes the mobile and PC title, developed by Black Wings Game Studio (China).
Players control a new protagonist, "Wonder," a high school student by day and Persona-wielding Phantom Thief by night. Wonder's mission, alongside Joker (from the main Persona 5 series) and a new character, YUI, is to combat societal injustices.
Wonder initially wields the Persona Janosik, inspired by Slovakian folklore and embodying a Robin Hood archetype.
The game retains the series' signature turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling, but integrates a gacha system for character acquisition.
New Roguelike Mode: Heart Rail
A recent gameplay video showcases the new "Heart Rail" roguelike mode, reminiscent of Honkai: Star Rail's Simulated Universe, offering varied power-ups, maps, and rewards.
SEGA's Strong Performance and Future Plans
SEGA reported strong sales for several titles, including 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).
SEGA is restructuring its business, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment focused on online gaming, aiming to establish a significant presence in the North American online gaming market. This is projected to become a third pillar of their business model.
For FY2025, SEGA forecasts increased sales and profits, projecting 93 billion Yen (approximately 597 billion USD) in revenue for the Full Game segment – a 5.4% increase. A new Sonic title is also anticipated for next year.
