Virtua Fighter Returns: A Glimpse into Sega's Upcoming Fighting Game

Sega has unveiled new in-engine footage of the next Virtua Fighter installment, marking the franchise's return after nearly two decades. Developed by Sega's Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, the game promises a fresh take on the classic fighting series.

The long-awaited sequel follows the 2021 release of Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown, a remaster of a previous iteration. While Ultimate Showdown is slated for a Steam release in January 2025, this new entry represents a completely original game, not just another remaster.

First shown at NVIDIA's 2025 CES keynote, the new footage, while not actual gameplay, offers a glimpse into the game's visual style. The short video showcases meticulously choreographed combat, hinting at a polished and refined fighting experience. This highly stylized presentation, more akin to a cinematic sequence than raw gameplay footage, suggests a focus on visual impact. The timing and coordination of moves are impeccable, reminiscent of a well-planned action film.

Evolving Visuals: A Blend of Realism and Style

The in-engine graphics showcase a departure from the series' earlier, hyper-stylized polygonal aesthetic. The new Virtua Fighter appears to strike a balance between the realism of Tekken 8 and the stylistic flair of Street Fighter 6. The footage features Akira, the franchise's iconic character, in updated outfits, noticeably different from his classic look.

Development is led by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for the Yakuza series and also involved in the Virtua Fighter 5 remaster. The studio is also working on Sega's announced Project Century. This experienced team suggests a commitment to delivering a high-quality and engaging fighting game.

While details remain scarce, Sega's enthusiasm is palpable. As Sega President and COO Shuji Utsumi declared in the VF Direct 2024 livestream, "Virtua Fighter is finally back!" With this new footage and the studio's reputation, anticipation for the game's release is steadily building.