Oh Sega, it’s okay – I still love you. I think it’s more the old Sega though, but recent-ish inspired decisions like the M2-developed 3DS ports of classic games, green-lighting Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, Valkyria Chronicles, the stunning HD port of Jet Set Radio and releasing a new/official translation of Monster World V running on M2’s emulation core show there’s still hope.
I decided to drag my other half out to Sega’s HQ in Ohta a few years ago when we were in Japan. It was amazing and still felt like I was standing on holy ground. The only way that trip could have been more amazing was if we had time to walk around Yokosuka, buy a can of Coke from a vending machine and then drink the whole thing standing next to the it, but time was limited. On the upside we found a great neighbourhood soba place near the Sega buildings that made for a tasty lunch.
I miss Japan.
Anywho, it’s a common belief that today’s Sega has lost the creative awesomeness that made the company such a powerhouse developer and publisher. Former CEO and all-around superchamp Tom Kalinske had some fantastic comments earlier this year reflecting on the company’s poor decisions over the last 20 years, and it seems that even those still in the company are waking up to this, with Sega’s CEO Hajime Satomi this week sharing a new ambition to improve the quality of his company’s output.
While you’re having your epiphany I’d suggest releasing the HD ports of Shenmue 1 and 2 that you’ve been allegedly sitting on for the last few years. Same for Bombergames’ unofficial Streets of Rage Remake – it needs to get the thumbs-up for a release on PSN, XBLA and Steam.
