Virtua Fighter's Resurgence: A Glimpse into the Future
Sega has unveiled new in-engine footage of the upcoming Virtua Fighter game, marking the franchise's return after nearly two decades of dormancy. Developed by Sega's Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for the Yakuza series and the Virtua Fighter 5 remaster, this new installment promises a fresh take on the classic fighting game.
The recently released footage, first shown at NVIDIA's 2025 CES keynote, isn't actual gameplay, but rather a meticulously choreographed cinematic showcasing the game's visuals. While undeniably staged, the in-engine graphics offer a compelling preview of the final product. The style appears to bridge the gap between the realism of Tekken 8 and the aesthetic of Street Fighter 6, a departure from the franchise's earlier, more stylized polygonal look. The footage features Akira, the series' iconic character, in updated outfits, foregoing his traditional bandanna and hairstyle.
Following the Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown remaster's upcoming Steam release in January 2025, this new entry represents a significant step for the franchise. The game's director, Riichirou Yamada, has hinted at a new direction, though specifics remain scarce. However, Sega's commitment to revitalizing Virtua Fighter is clear, as evidenced by the recent VF Direct 2024 livestream where Sega President and COO Shuji Utsumi declared, "Virtua Fighter is finally back!" The studio is also simultaneously developing Project Century, further highlighting their dedication to expanding Sega's portfolio. The return of Virtua Fighter, alongside other recent fighting game releases, positions the 2020s as a potentially pivotal era for the genre.
