Sega is gearing up for the release of a new entry in the iconic Virtua Fighter franchise, with excitement reverberating throughout the company, especially among senior executives. Producer Riichiro Yamada revealed that Sega's chairman, Hajime Satomi, is personally invested in the project, providing valuable insights during meetings. This renewed enthusiasm has even caught the attention of younger Sega employees who may not have experienced the franchise firsthand. Virtua Fighter has a storied legacy in gaming, known for revolutionizing hand-to-hand combat in arcade gaming. The revival comes after years of discussions and is seen as an opportunity to cater to long-time fans, revitalizing a series that has largely been dormant in recent years.

What makes the new Virtua Fighter game special?

The new Virtua Fighter game is special due to its deep-rooted legacy, the involvement of passionate executives within Sega, and its focus on returning to the franchise's foundational combat mechanics, all while appealing to both old fans and a new generation of players.

Virtua Fighter debuted in 1993 and is credited with setting standards for 3D fighting games. Its technical prowess and realistic movement mechanics made it a standout attraction at arcades. Despite a lengthy hiatus in standalone titles, the series has maintained relevance through appearances in other Sega games, particularly the Yakuza franchise, which featured Virtua Fighter mini-games. This revival aims to capture the essence that made Virtua Fighter a household name while advancing it for modern audiences.