Dear Reader:

You are viewing a story from GN Version 4.0. Time may not have been kind to formatting, integrity of links, images, information, etc.

SEGA talks Atlus acquisition, possible revival of older SEGA brands

by rawmeatcowboy
28 November 2013
GN Version 4.0
Coming from a Famitsu interview with Sega Sammy’s Chief Operating Officer, Naoya Tsurumi...

Famitsu: What will happen to the Atlus brand?

Naoya Tsurumi: As a new company, we will venture together, with Index working as an independent company. The plan is to have Atlus and Sega continue shining as brands, while aiming to increase their degree of independence.

Similar to the studio we’ve acquired from overseas [note: presumably Relic], they’ll continue managing their own brands and IPs, and making them bigger. Then, Sega will be the ones to sell them. So, think of it as us telling them “Continue working on your own IPs with pride and confidence—the sky is the limit.”

Famitsu: It must be reassuring to have added a group capable of making great RPG titles.

Tsurumi: While we have no intention of forcing this, we’d definitely love to have them utilize any of Sega’s dormant IPs.

Famitsu: Sakura Wars, Jet Set Radio, and Space Channel 5… are some that come to mind.

Tsurumi: There are plenty that haven’t been active. [laughs] However, the new company just recently got started, so there’s nothing on the table for now, but we’ll definitely be giving it more thought.

Famitsu: What are some of the benefits for Sega from the acquisition of Index?

Tsurumi: I believe that the addition of genres is a crucial factor. Especially with regard to the fact that Sega have never excelled in RPG titles. With consideration towards Atlus’ strengths, Japanese RPGs would be a prime example [of an added benefit].

Full interview here