Sega has officially announced that it is not planning to release any more mini consoles, effectively ruling out fan hopes for miniature versions of the Sega Saturn or Dreamcast. In an interview with The Guardian, Shuji Utsumi, CEO of Sega America and Europe, emphasized that the company is focusing on modern gaming audiences rather than continuing its line of nostalgia-driven hardware.
Key Statements from Sega
- Utsumi stated, “I’m not going for the Mini direction. It’s not me. I want to embrace modern gamers.” He further clarified, “We are not a retro company. We really appreciate our legacy, we value it, but at the same time, we want to deliver something new – otherwise we’ll become history. That’s not what we’re aiming for.”
- While Sega acknowledges its past successes and iconic franchises, the company is shifting its focus toward creating new experiences and reviving classic IPs with modern takes.
Background on Sega’s Mini Consoles
Sega has previously released several mini consoles to celebrate its legacy:
- The Genesis/Mega Drive Mini (2019) and Genesis/Mega Drive Mini 2 (2022), which included a mix of popular and rare titles.
- Two Astro City Mini arcade systems.
- A series of Game Gear Micro handhelds.
Despite their commercial success and positive reception, Utsumi confirmed that no further mini consoles are in development. This decision comes after years of speculation about potential Saturn or Dreamcast Mini consoles, which fans hoped would bring back games from these beloved yet underrepresented platforms.
Sega’s Future Plans
Instead of focusing on retro hardware, Sega is turning its attention to modernizing its classic franchises. New entries in series like Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, Virtua Fighter, Shinobi, Golden Axe, and Streets of Rage are currently in development. Additionally, Sega continues to expand its successful franchises like Sonic the Hedgehog, Persona, and Yakuza while exploring opportunities in subscription-based gaming services.
Fan Reaction
While some fans are disappointed by the lack of a Saturn or Dreamcast Mini, others are optimistic about Sega’s commitment to revitalizing older IPs with fresh approaches. The company’s pivot away from retro hardware reflects a broader industry trend of leveraging digital platforms like subscription services (e.g., Xbox Game Pass) to make classic games more accessible. For now, Sega remains focused on delivering innovative experiences while honoring its legacy through new projects rather than additional mini console releases.
