Threads
- After being a major player in the video game console domain, Sega slowly went into hibernation after 2001.
- However, with its recent lineup and strategies, Sega is back to seize its glory.
- With Xbox’s shaky position, it’s a good time for Sega to re-enter the console race.
Console wars have always been interesting to watch. Every generation, I sat in anticipation, waiting for how the competitors would try to overshadow the other. More importantly, there was another competitor back in the day in addition to the usual suspects.
You know of Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, but there was another: Sega. In fact, Sega predates both Sony and Microsoft in the console domain but unfortunately took its exit in 2001. I still look back on that era fondly, wondering how things could’ve been different, or if they could change now.
Why it matters: Dreamcast was a great console with a cruel fate, but now that Sega is slowly reclaiming its past position in games, a new console is also a lot more viable.
The Unfortunate Dreamcast
Sega was a key contender in the video game console market, but regrettably, this important chapter of history came to a close after 18 years. Sega took its leave in 2001, following the underwhelming financial performance of the Dreamcast and consistent losses.
Many factors contributed to this eventuality, but Sega was to blame for many of the missteps. To this day, I call this a great loss. The Japanese gaming giant was doing impressive work; if only it had been determined and competent enough to challenge the odds back then.
The Dreamcast was a significant generational leap. It was ahead of its time, introduced revolutionary concepts like online play, and was overall a solid piece of hardware. It had everything going for it except the company’s unwavering faith and backing.
Lack of third-party games and support, Sega’s dwindling image because of past failures of the Saturn, ineffective marketing campaigns, intense competition from the PS2, and the incapability to adapt to the changing environment, Dreamcast was the sacrifice for Sega’s shortcomings.
The Rebirth Of Sega
Superb hardware, visuals, and even games like Sonic Adventure, Crazy Taxi, and Jet Set Radio couldn’t save the Dreamcast, and Sega never went back to consoles after this failure, opting to remain a third-party developer.
However, it still didn’t see much success. Its classics went dormant, and the lineup it came up with failed to impress. I was almost sure it would back out of games, too, but thankfully, Sega took a stand, and it has paid off now.
With Yakuza and Persona, Sega is slowly but surely taking back its long-lost glory. Alongside these JRPG titans, a consistent interest in Sonic and a splendid revival of its past classics have put the gaming giant back on track toward being the best.
This massive renaissance of Sega also raises a question. Now that it has a superb game lineup and good relations with strong developers, will it consider re-entering the console domain?
The Xbox Situation Creates An Opportunity
If you ask me, Sega should earnestly consider this. It owes it to the fans who helped it re-acquire greatness, but more importantly, a very lucrative opportunity has opened up due to recent events.
As you’ve seen for yourself, Microsoft is radically shifting its strategies. Using Game Pass and multi-platform sales as a pivot, it’s moving away from Xbox as a console to establish a gaming brand, funneling efforts into increasing subscriber count and pushing its games onto all platforms.
Microsoft’s recent strategies have made Xbox a redundant platform to own, considering the Game Pass is a much better deal on PC, and all the games are slowly going multi-platform. It won’t be long before Xbox loses most of its appeal and just remains a console for collection purposes.
Seize The Moment, Sega
While leaving the console market was the necessary thing to do to survive, part of me wishes Sega was still in it as the fourth big player.
byu/Apart_Shock ingaming
As lamentable and tragic as it is, Xbox losing ground opens up a spot in the console domain, and it needs to be desperately filled. Without competition, Sony would run free and come up with ridiculous ideas, which it has already started with the blockbuster AAAs that take years and insane live service ideas.
Nintendo has its own uncontested domain, which is why Sony needs a powerful rival to keep it in check. Sega has both past experience and ample ability to fill this role today. It’s apparent the tech giant has changed its ways and is more than capable now.
With titles like Sonic, Yakuza, Persona, and all its past classics, Sega can provide a home to this growing library, and in return, they can create a powerhouse of a platform. Dreamcast was a masterpiece victim of unfortunate circumstances. Eliminate the latter, and greatness can be crafted once again.
Thank you! Please share your positive feedback. 🔋
How could we improve this post? Please Help us. 😔
Shameer Sarfaraz has previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, he loves to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games. Besides his passion for breaking news stories, Shahmeer loves spending his leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited his articles.
Join Our Community
