Sega has announced a new initiative called Sega Universe, which aims to revive its historic intellectual properties by expanding them into various media beyond video games. The project will focus on classic titles that are still beloved by fans, offering new ways to enjoy them through film, music, fashion, and other forms of entertainment.
No New Games for Classic Franchises
Unlike Sega's previous announcement in December 2023 about developing new games for Jet Set Radio, Streets Of Rage, Golden Axe, Crazy Taxi, and Shinobi, the Sega Universe project does not involve creating new video games. Instead, it seeks to celebrate these IPs through anniversary projects and cross-media adaptations. The initiative highlights nine titles celebrating major anniversaries in 2026, including Fantasy Zone (40th), OutRun (40th), Streets Of Rage (35th), Rent A Hero (35th), Guardian Heroes (30th), NiGHTS Into Dreams (30th), Dynamite Deka (30th), Sakura Wars (30th), and Segagaga (25th).
What to Expect from Sega Universe
The Sega Universe website describes the project as a way to transcend generations and borders, allowing classic characters to live on in the same universe. It emphasizes expanding beyond games into film, music, fashion, and other entertainment forms. While some franchises already have movie adaptations in the works, such as an OutRun film directed by Michael Bay and a Streets Of Rage movie from John Wick creator Derek Kolstad, the latter is reportedly stuck in limbo. The initiative may result in merchandise like T-shirts and mugs, but a dedicated trailer suggests Sega is serious about reaching old-school fans.
