Virtua Fighter Returns: A Glimpse at Sega's Next-Gen Fighter
Sega has unveiled new in-engine footage of the upcoming Virtua Fighter game, marking the franchise's return after nearly two decades. Developed by Sega's own Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, the footage offers a compelling look at the game's visual direction.
The last major Virtua Fighter release was Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown, a 2021 remaster (also coming to Steam in January 2025). This new entry, however, promises a completely fresh experience.
First shown at NVIDIA's 2025 CES keynote, the footage, while impeccably choreographed, is a pre-rendered cinematic showcasing combat. The polished movements suggest a focus on visual presentation, hinting at a style that blends the realism of Tekken 8 with the aesthetic of Street Fighter 6.
A New Visual Identity
The video features Akira, the franchise's iconic character, in updated outfits, departing from his classic bandana and hairstyle. This visual shift suggests a move away from the series' hyper-stylized, polygonal roots towards a more realistic aesthetic. While not actual gameplay, the in-engine graphics provide a strong indication of the final product's visual quality.
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio at the Helm
Development is led by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for the Yakuza series and also involved in the Virtua Fighter 5 remaster. They are also handling Sega's Project Century, indicating a significant investment in these projects.
Details remain scarce, but director Riichirou Yamada's previous comments and Sega's commitment, as expressed by President and COO Shuji Utsumi ("Virtua Fighter is finally back!"), suggest a serious effort to revitalize the franchise. The release of this footage further fuels anticipation for this long-awaited return.
