Sega Announces Revival of Classic Franchises: Streets of Rage, Jet Set Radio, Golden Axe, Shinobi, and Crazy Taxi Return

Sega Unveils Major Revival for Streets of Rage, Jet Set Radio, Golden Axe, Shinobi, and Crazy Taxi In a landmark announcement for retro gaming fans and industry watchers alike, Sega has officially confirmed the return of some of its most beloved franchises.

During its 2023 Management Meeting on December 12th, Sega revealed significant details and new images for a slate of legacy titles slated for modern revival, including Streets of Rage, Jet Set Radio, Golden Axe, Shinobi, and Crazy Taxi.

This announcement follows the unveiling of these projects at The Game Awards on December 7th, 2023, where Sega showcased a vibrant trailer hinting at each series’ new direction. Modernizing Iconic Sega Franchises Sega’s ongoing commitment to its classic franchises was front and center as the company showcased concept art and gameplay direction for each title.

The new installment in the side-scrolling beat ‘em up series will be officially titled “Streets of Rage Revolution,” inviting fans to restore order to the city’s crime-ridden streets, now with modern visuals and design.

The gameplay premise remains faithful to its roots, as players take control of former police officers determined to eliminate lawlessness once and for all. Equally anticipated is the return of Jet Set Radio.

Now confirmed to be an open-world experience set in Tokyo, the franchise is described by Sega as an exploration of "counter-culture" and "rebellion." Players will be encouraged to build their following, foster friendships, and champion creative expression against constrictive societal norms, signaling a bold new direction for the series. The revival line-up also includes Shinobi, with a new title promising intense ninja combat and a haunting atmosphere.

Players will wield the legendary sword Oborozuki and battle supernatural foes to protect both their clan and the wider world, offering a fresh, hand-drawn art take inspired by classic Shinobi action. Crazy Taxi, recognized for its energetic driving gameplay, returns with what Sega dubs an “innovative & fresh style of driving action,” blending the chaotic freedom of city and nature environments into a new Crazy City setting.

Meanwhile, Golden Axe—another pillar of Sega’s 16-bit library—is set for a 3D update, letting warriors once again take up arms and engage in sword- and magic-based combat against monstrous enemies. Industry Impact and Future Expectations The reimagining of these franchises marks a major moment in Sega’s recent strategy to re-engage both nostalgic and contemporary audiences.

While release dates and platform specifics, such as Nintendo Switch availability, remain under wraps as of now, these updates were accompanied by early development footage that generated significant excitement across the gaming community. A Sega spokesperson referenced during the management meeting that these projects aim to deliver new energy and experiences, building on the foundation of each series’ legacy.

Sega’s decision to modernize these classics highlights its renewed focus on its extensive back catalog, following a period when most had seen only occasional cameos in other games. As fans eagerly await more information, including platform confirmations and release windows, Sega’s legacy revival underscores both the enduring popularity of its classic franchises and its ambitions for the next era of gaming.

Stay tuned as further updates emerge throughout 2024.

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