Sega Unveils New Virtua Fighter In-Engine Footage

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

Sega has unveiled new in-engine footage of the next Virtua Fighter game, marking the franchise's return after nearly two decades. Developed by Sega's Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, this new installment 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 the Ultimate Showdown remaster is slated for a Steam launch in January 2025, this new entry represents a completely original game, not just an update.

First shown at NVIDIA's 2025 CES keynote, the new footage, while not actual gameplay, offers a compelling look at the game's in-engine visuals. The short video showcases meticulously choreographed combat, hinting at a polished and refined fighting experience. This highly stylized presentation suggests a focus on cinematic presentation rather than raw, unedited gameplay footage. The resurgence of Virtua Fighter further cements the 2020s as a golden age for fighting games.

Evolving Visuals: A Blend of Realism and Style

The new Virtua Fighter departs from its earlier, more stylized polygonal aesthetic. The footage reveals a visual style that blends realism with a distinct artistic flair, reminiscent of a midpoint between Tekken 8 and Street Fighter 6. The iconic character Akira is featured, sporting new outfits that deviate from his traditional look.

Sega's Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for the Yakuza series and also involved in the Virtua Fighter 5 remaster, is leading development on this project, alongside their work on Project Century. While details remain scarce, project director Riichirou Yamada's previous comments indicate a significant shift in the game's direction.

Despite the limited information, Sega's commitment to revitalizing the Virtua Fighter brand is evident. As Sega President and COO Shuji Utsumi declared during the VF Direct 2024 livestream: "Virtua Fighter is finally back!"