Published on: June 01, 2024
SEGA Remake Updates: Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi Reimagined with Unreal Engine 5
SEGA, a stalwart in the video game industry, has shared significant updates regarding its highly anticipated remakes of two iconic titles: Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi.
Originally announced at The Game Awards in 2023, these projects are part of SEGA’s mission to breathe new life into beloved franchises while harnessing cutting-edge technology for modern audiences.
Both remakes are being developed using Epic Games’ state-of-the-art Unreal Engine 5, ensuring not only visual fidelity but also innovation in gameplay mechanics that are poised to attract both longtime fans and new players.
According to new information, both Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi are full-fledged remakes overseen by several members of their original development teams.
This direct involvement from legacy staff ensures that the heart and style of the original games will be retained while introducing new features that elevate the player experience.
SEGA has confirmed that these remakes will closely mirror the classic gameplay but will also include updated elements; for instance, Crazy Taxi will feature new multiplayer options, a first for the franchise.
A spokesperson clarified the development timeline: SEGA had initially targeted a 2026 release window for the Jet Set Radio remake and a 2027 launch for the Crazy Taxi remake.
As part of an expanded content strategy, both games are also slated to receive Games as a Service (GaaS) versions, which will follow after the debut of the main titles.
These GaaS versions are designed to offer ongoing content updates, though they are distinct from the full-scale remakes and will arrive at a later stage.
In addition, SEGA planned to launch the Golden Axe remake as early as 2023, with marketing campaigns already in place, but the schedule was later revised.
No further information has been shared regarding new release dates for Golden Axe at this time.
When it comes to downloadable content, SEGA intends to offer day-one cosmetic DLC for both the Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi remakes.
However, there are no plans to introduce expansion passes at launch, keeping the focus on delivering a complete core game experience from day one.
These developments underscore SEGA’s commitment to preserving the essence of its classic franchises while adapting them for a new generation of players.
With original team members at the helm and Unreal Engine 5 powering these ambitious projects, Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi remakes are positioned as significant entries in SEGA’s portfolio for the years ahead.
Fans and industry watchers can anticipate further official updates as the development progresses and SEGA refines its release roadmap in response to evolving plans and feedback.
Unreal Engine 5 SEGA Unreal Engine Jet Set Radio Crazy Taxi Golden Axe Epic Games The Game Awards Midori