Persona 5: Global Phantom X Release Explored by SEGA

Persona 5: The Phantom X Global Release on the Horizon?

SEGA's latest financial report hints at a potential global launch for its popular gacha spin-off, Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X). The report indicates that the game's performance in its initial release regions is meeting expectations, and future expansion into Japan and globally is under active consideration.

Currently in Open Beta, Limited Release

Initially soft-launched in China on April 12th, 2024, and subsequently in Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan on April 18th, P5X is currently in open beta. Developed by Black Wings Game Studio and published by Perfect World Games, the mobile and PC title casts players as "Wonder," a high school student who moonlights as a Persona-wielding Phantom Thief. Wonder is partnered with the iconic Joker from the main Persona 5 series, along with a new character, YUI, and utilizes the new Persona, Janosik.

Gameplay and Features

P5X retains the core turn-based combat, social simulation, and dungeon crawling elements of the Persona series, but integrates a gacha system for character acquisition. A new roguelike game mode, "Heart Rail," similar to Honkai Star Rail's Simulated Universe, has also been introduced, offering players challenging gameplay and rewards. (See Faz's gameplay showcase: https://www.youtube.com/embed/nL5-gy5SKq0)

SEGA's Positive Financial Outlook

SEGA reported strong sales for several titles, including Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Persona 3 Reload (both exceeding 1 million units sold in their first week), and Football Manager 2024 (9 million players). The company is restructuring its business, creating a new "Gaming Business" segment focused on online gaming expansion, including North America. A strong FY2025 forecast projects increased sales and profits, bolstered by the anticipated release of a new Sonic title. The success of these titles, coupled with the positive outlook, strengthens the possibility of a global release for Persona 5: The Phantom X.