Summary
- Sega has no plans to produce additional mini consoles, including the Saturn or Dreamcast.
- Sega’s CEO stated that the company is focusing on modern games to attract today’s gamers.
- Sega may launch a subscription service similar to Netflix, providing access to both retro and modern titles.
Sega has confirmed it has no plans to develop more mini consoles. For those waiting to see a mini Saturn or Dreamcast, the Sega CEO commented that the studio's focus is now on modern games.
Sega had an influential role in the gaming industry, becoming a major player in the home console market with its iconic Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, Sega Saturn, and Dreamcast systems. Later, the company stopped making consoles and focused solely on games. However, in 2019, Sega released a revival of its Sega Genesis console, launching a mini version with 42 pre-installed games, including popular titles like Sonic the Hedgehog. This was followed by the launch of the Sega Genesis Mini 2 in 2022. Since then, players have longed for a mini version of other popular Sega consoles like the Saturn or the Dreamcast, but the studio has bad news for them.
Sega's Potential Video Game Subscription Service Could Be a Game Changer
Sega is considering launching a Netflix-like subscription service, which, if successful, could be a game changer in the long run.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Shuji Utsumi, the CEO of Sega of America and Europe, shared that the company has no plans to continue making mini consoles. He explained that while Sega values its rich console history, the focus is now on moving forward and attracting today’s gamers. Instead of relying on nostalgia, Sega wants to create new experiences that still capture the essence of its classic games. Utsumi also mentioned that Sega has always played a big role in shaping gaming culture with bold, original ideas, and he plans to continue that legacy by focusing on modern projects rather than retro hardware.
Sega Is Not Developing More Mini Consoles
This announcement is a disappointment for fans who were hoping for mini versions of the Saturn or Dreamcast. While Sega's previous mini console releases were well-received, it's evident that the company is now shifting its focus to innovation.
This disappointing news adds to Sega’s decision to remove several classic games and bundles from digital stores. Games like Golden Axe, Crazy Taxi, and Streets of Rage are no longer available on platforms like Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. On a brighter note, Utsumi mentioned in a previous interview that Sega is exploring the idea of a subscription service similar to Netflix. While it’s still in the early stages, such a platform could give players access to both retro and modern Sega titles in one place, which may explain the sudden removal of classic games from digital storefronts.
Nevertheless, Sega’s choice to move away from mini consoles shows its commitment to staying relevant in the fast-changing gaming world. While older consoles have left a lasting impact on gamers, the company is now focused on innovation and appealing to today’s players.
- Date Founded
- June 3, 1960
- Headquarters
- Shinagawa City, Tokyo, Japan
- CEO
- Hajime Satomi
- Subsidiaries
- Sonic Team, Rovio, Relic Entertainment
- Known For
- Sonic the Hedgehog, Phantasy Star, Super Monkey Ball