Summary
Sega gaveJet Set Radiofans some additional good news, as the company confirmed that the series' original creators are involved in the upcoming reboot. Though theJet Set Radioseries has been dormant for over a decade, its most recent contribution being Steam and mobile ports in 2012, the news gave fans some excitement.
The news came following a massive reveal at The Game Awards, in whichSega confirmedJet Set Radiowas returningin a trailer spanning a minute and a half. The trailer also showed titles from Sega’s past that were in active development, includingGolden Axe,Shinobi,Crazy Taxi, andStreets of Rage. While classic Sega series such asVirtua FighterandShining Forceremained in limbo, the trailer left room for the company to revisit them in the future. Following the trailer, Sega fans took to social media to express their excitement over the news. However, Sega did not reveal any additional details about what these new titles would be called, or when they would be released.
While indie titles such asBomb Rush Cyberfunkhave filled a voidleft behind inJet Set Radio’s absence, Sega fans have been assured that the series is not done yet. Inan interview with The Washington Post,Sega of America CEO and Sega Corporation co-COO Shuji Utsumi stated that the developers originally from SmileBit and BlitWorks are involved with bringingJet Set Radioback. Originally released in 2000 for the Sega Dreamcast, which Utsumi was involved with,Jet Set Radioblended rollerskating action with graffiti and music in a cel-shaded art style that has become synonymous with the series and games inspired by it.
In addition, Utsumi said that the timing ofJet Set Radio’s return was right, and stated that people who enjoy games and concepts of different kinds would enjoy what Sega has to offer in the coming years. Plus, Utsumi stated thatJet Set Radio’s revival was due to thesuccess of theSonic the Hedgehogfranchise in recent years. Utsumi said that theSonicseries' success has given Sega the confidence to bring its classic titles to the forefront for new audiences to enjoy. Whether the reboot ofJet Set Radiowill enjoy as much or more success than it did in the past remains to be seen.
The concept of games like ‘Jet Set Radio’ is advanced. The original creators are involved again, and its time is now. It’s a good time where people can appreciate all kinds of concepts.
Asone of Sega’s top franchises,Jet Set Radio’s return is just the tip of the spear for Sega’s plans going into 2024 and beyond. Only time will tell what other series Sega will bring forward.
