SEGA in the design phase of a new system.

[orangutan]

http://www.iii.co.uk/investment/detail?type=&code=cotn%3AIMG.L&it=le&display=discussion&action=detail&id=6041779


As we have previously reported, SEGA SAMMY plans on moving on from LINDBERGH/RINGEDGE development to the next generation of technology in 2011. We exclusively reported that both Hiroshi Yagi and Yu Suzuki are heading the research and development team tasked with the creation of the new platform. We were also the first to break the news that the new board shall have a console counterpart that shall see a consumer release in 2012 aproximately one year after the debut of it's arcade cousin, designed to compete with the next generation of XBox and PlayStation. Like we previously reported SEGA plans a one year lead on both MS and Sony as due to the introduction of Natal and Arc neither have any hardware refresh plans prior to 2013.

Further developments

Today we can exclusively reveal that SEGA has signed with Imagination Technologies of the United Kingdom to provide, to quote our source "a very high end next generation graphics chipset" for exclusive arcade and console use.

If we were to take an educated guess we would have to say that this emplies the in development PowerVR Series 6, the successor to the PowerVR SGX5XX Series.

Regarding other technicalities nothing is yet known. Thus information such as Ram Configuration, Ram type, CPU, CPU provider etc... currently remain a mystery.

In an earlier article we stated that Sony had chosen PowerVR for next generation, however, according to our source Sony decided against the design in favor of a cheaper solution from AMD or nVidia. Apparently after the loses made with PS3, Howard Stringer the CEO of the company wants a sub $300 price/performance system for the next round.

Stay tuned for further details on SEGA's next generation plans as and when we get them.

[Leo_A]

I can't see Sega attempting a new console entry with their history of past failures and the massive losses Microsoft has endured to finally reach a profitable stage and the struggles Sony has had this generation after dominating the previous two.

The barriers of entry are too high now and they simply don't have the resources to even be taken seriously. I somewhat believe the new hardware for the coinop division (Although coming from a unknown poster and an unfamiliar source cast suspicions on it), but as far as the console counterpart, it isn't happening.

[Oobgarm]

Sega will never re-enter the console business. End of story.

[BetaWolf47]

I bet this is just for their next arcade platform.

[buzz_n64]

I'll be looking forward to the upcoming arcade system, but console? Don't think so, but Nintendo and it's underpowered Wii are hitting it big, so I wouldn't say it's 100% impossible, just unlikely. If they make a system though, I'd buy it for sure.

[swlovinist]

I think that Sega coming back to the hardware console scene would be a mistake. I would buy it like others, but I cant see it being more successful than even the Dreamcast.

[Dangerboy]

You know, from the sounds of it, almost seems like they're going for a Neo Geo-like set up. Not a mainstream contender, but for the more dedicated arcade afficianados. If there was a way to bring older direct-arcade ports (ST-V, etc) I could see that being a nifty 'other' console.

[Bill Loguidice]

I agree, there is no chance of this happening. Even creating a new arcade platform seems risky since it would be much cheaper to piggy back off of someone else's technology, and also make home conversions much, much easier (and again, cheaper and more cost effective). The hardware business is for rich companies with little to no debt, which is why you only see companies of the stature of Nintendo, Microsoft, Sony, and Apple duking it out these days. Trying to compete against those four would be commercial suicide unless you were content in carving out a niche, and there is no viable niche in mainstream console gaming.

[Overbite]

I can see them making a new arcade chip, but for consoles? Maybe if it's gonna be used in the next xbox or playstation or even nintendo console, but I doubt SEGA is going to make their own console. It'd be a disaster.

[chrisbid]

what are they going to release on a new arcade board? house of the dead 6?

[hbkprm]

this shit again?
they swore off it

[otoko]

I'd never say they'd never make another console. If they gained footing again in the future sure, there is random possibility. But now? I agree with everyone else. It's a no.

[JunkTheMagicDragon]

i'll repost the numbers i gathered the last time one of these threads popped up:



sega doesn't have the money to seriously launch a console against the big boys. take a look at these figures for 09:

revenue
sega: 1.64B
nintendo: 20.6B
sony: 79B
ms: 58.4B

net income
sega: 190M
nintendo: 6.2B
sony: -1B
microsoft: 14.5B

[LaughingMAN.S9]

then the hope for shenmue 3 is still alive....

















ZOMGGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[kupomogli]

I don't think they'll make another console but it wasn't until after the Dreamcast died before most people started coming out saying they thought it was a great system.

Possibly because of the fanbase that thinks the Dreamcast is one of the greatest systems ever made(me included,) it may actually be a system that sells well if Sega did release another console.

[Shadow Kisuragi]

...sorry to hijack this thread for a moment, but:
ZOMG! kupomogli has a gamercard! It finally happened!

Back on track:
I forsee this being viable if Sega uses it to launch first-party titles and caters to its core audience. They need to carve out a niche before having any hope of taking on the bigger prey. The Sega name these days is really only known for kids games.

[Enigmus]

then the hope for shenmue 3 is still alive....






ZOMGGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


That, and it'll be on the only system that would last two weeks and then burn up in the gaming stratosphere.

Seriously, Sega's WAY too soft to do it. I mean, look, they're owned by Sammy! Owned by another company! And they would never stoop that low in 1991-92! They're just a rotting house frame in the middle of a desert, far from the river valley of the Big 3. Don't get any hopes up.

Wait a minute, isn't there a topic just like this one?
I put $20 on merge!

[kupomogli]

...sorry to hijack this thread for a moment, but:
ZOMG! kupomogli has a gamercard! It finally happened!

This is actually a very old gamercard. It'll be a PS3 trophycard again soon though. Still haven't changed it.


The Sega name these days is really only known for kids games.

I don't really see that. Sega has plenty of current IPs for older gamers. Yakuza 3, Valkyria Chronicles, Madworld, House of the Dead, Virtua Fighter, and Phantasy Star. The other thing is that Sega doesn't just have a single genre under their belt, they cover pretty much everything.

If Sega ever does release a new system. They already have the best 3d fighting game for a console exclusive, several great series that they can bring back for sequels, etc. They also have a mascot that is as well known as Mario is. Also. I know Sonic fans would give this system their undying support as they still support every Sonic game released no matter how bad, so when all these Sonic titles are exclusive, Sega will be raking in the sales.

[Icarus Moonsight]

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/uncyclopedia/images/a/a4/I-want-to-believe.gif

But, I'm afraid I'll get hurt again...

As far as barriers to entry, they've never been lower, post-crash. No one has everyone, like NES, PS1/2 did. The Wii is a great system, but it has fairly large gaps in the markets it serves on the software side. Like Dangerboy alluded to (SNK - Neo Geo) this 20 year old model, just might have some legs to it. Especially since it seems they plan on offering superior hardware for a value price... I hope beyond hope that we're not being toyed with here. I'd love to see it happen.

[otoko]

But, I'm afraid I'll get hurt again...

Don't worry...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3331/3423118152_21be44265d.jpg

This guy knows your pain.

[kedawa]

Some nutwad has been posting this fictitious nonsense on various message boards.
It's obviously bullshit.

[Tron 2.0]

Sounds like sega next hardware for the arcades :p

[mastamuzz]

Being a devoted SEGA fan I felt like 7 Years old again when I read this, obviously someone is pulling our leg with all this, but I wonder what if??




then the hope for shenmue 3 is still alive....

ZOMGGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is one of the tittles I really want to finish so for a moment I believed what this guy wrote!



This is actually a very old gamercard. It'll be a PS3 trophycard again soon though. Still haven't changed it.



I don't really see that. Sega has plenty of current IPs for older gamers. Yakuza 3, Valkyria Chronicles, Madworld, House of the Dead, Virtua Fighter, and Phantasy Star. The other thing is that Sega doesn't just have a single genre under their belt, they cover pretty much everything.

If Sega ever does release a new system. They already have the best 3d fighting game for a console exclusive, several great series that they can bring back for sequels, etc. They also have a mascot that is as well known as Mario is. Also. I know Sonic fans would give this system their undying support as they still support every Sonic game released no matter how bad, so when all these Sonic titles are exclusive, Sega will be raking in the sales.


In that matter SEGA haves a huge library to make sequels but I really don't think they will come up with another console and if they try to make the same mistake to launch a year early like previous two attempts well that brews another downfall cause that means they don't learn from their mistakes, although the machines were ahead of their time they didn't complete either!

But (stupid hope) if they do and they come with an excellent platform for fighting games as the NEO-GEO on its time Ill gladly spend even $800 on the console (bought DC Launch $380 + Soul C. and Sonic and MC $480 overall, PS2 Launch $400 + Tekken TAG and SSX and MC $550 overall, Xbox launch $585 forced on the EB Games bundles Halo and Amped with extra controller bundle, all that in Vegas in the US, In Canada Xbox360 $600 no games for the first week (also console only lasted 2 months), PS3 60Gb $900 + $56 for Resistance and the warranty in Bestbuy I was already scared with the 360) as you can see prices go up every new console!!

So for the complete SEGA collection that I claim I have Ill buy it for sure!

[Oldskool]

Once again, coming from a Sega fan boy, I'd like to believe that it's true. And if it was true I'd be there on day one to pick up my pre-purchased console (like I did with the Dreamcast), but really - I don't think it's ever gonna happen. Sega is now just a fading memory to a lot of people. It's very very sad.

[Muscelli]

I heard its launching with Shenmue 3, Nights 2, Streets of Rage 4 and Panzer Dragoon Saga 2

[Baloo]

I heard its launching with Shenmue 3, Nights 2, Streets of Rage 4 and Panzer Dragoon Saga 2

Lawl.

I know a lot of people want Sega to release another console (myself included) but unless they start pulling old IPs such as the Vectorman, Streets of Rage, Shining Force, Treasure, NiGHTS, Sega Rally, Daytona, Burning Rangers, Panzer Dragoon Phantasy Star, Space Harrier, After Burner, etc. etc. out of their ass and put it on the console, what would there even be to launch the system?

[PapaStu]

Like publishers are going to pay for a fourth (or greater if we count handhelds) version for one of their games. The big stuff already costs crazy amounts of money to make, lets add to it by adding another system. Quality will drop even more.

Sega as a home console maker is dead. I wish people would get that into their heads. Sonic fans couldn't 'save' Sonic this generation (like any of them bought Sonic Unleased, let alone the shit that was Sonic The Hedgehog), they won't save a console with their support. There isn't a big enough market to bring the 'arcade' home ala the AES. Hell I can't even find arcades to go to.

[NayusDante]

Honestly, I don't see why they couldn't do a home system. They have a good chunk of the arcade market, and the actual arcade hardware isn't terribly expensive. Things like the cabinets, LCDs, and such are where the cost is. There's many home hardware options available to them now that they didn't have back in the 90s...

I can see them partnering with a cablebox or BD player manufacturer to create a hybrid gaming-multimedia device. As we've seen, these device makers are competing with different added features like NetFlix, YouTube, etc. TiVo is supposedly trying to reinvent their image, so I'm sure that a gaming DVR would be a possibility.

[buzz_n64]

What, rent-to-play streamed games? Download it, only have it for a week, and it's gone sort of thing? They kind of have that thing going with demos. But, Sega already tried this stuff, remember Sega Channel? Well, if Sega makes a system, it will probably fail, but I'll buy it anyways, because I love Sega.

[Hari Seldon]

Lawl.

I know a lot of people want Sega to release another console (myself included) but unless they start pulling old IPs such as the Vectorman, Streets of Rage, Shining Force, Treasure, NiGHTS, Sega Rally, Daytona, Burning Rangers, Panzer Dragoon Phantasy Star, Space Harrier, After Burner, etc. etc. out of their ass and put it on the console, what would there even be to launch the system?

The market is not big enough to handle another "me too" console. Besides, they can't even seem to handle their mascot today, much less a new console.

[ShinobiMan]

To quote what I said last year...


I don't think it's going to happen. Wishful thinking maybe, but the chances of it happening are slim. Time will tell I guess.

I'd like to also add that if Sega was to release a console... it would have to cater to the retrogaming / hardcore gaming demographic and not compete with today's consoles. A specialty Sega console with the oldschool Sega gamer in mind.

[Baloo]

To quote what I said last year...



I'd like to also add that if Sega was to release a console... it would have to cater to the retrogaming / hardcore gaming demographic and not compete with today's consoles. A specialty Sega console with the oldschool Sega gamer in mind.

Much like the Neo Geo, as Dangerboy said earlier. A sort of niche platform.

[Zoltor]

If any of that is true, this would be the perfect time to get back into the console developing business, as Sony is very weak at the moment, and if Sony's next console is anything but the be all end all of new school era consoles, they'll be forced to drop out.

I so don't see Microsoft going anywhere though, with their amazing online support for their games, and the fact the 360 is technically not a console to begin with(It's a repackaged gaming grade PC, that doesn't need to be upgraded every other year, and costs less then 20% of what a gaming grade PC would normally cost), so unless Microsoft goes in a totally new dirrection(doubtful, seeing how this is their thing), they aren't going anywhere.

PS. I don't think I have to mention this, but Nintendo is about as fail proof as you can get in this industry right now, so even if their next system somehow sucked balls, Nintendo will still be in very good condition to recoup with no problem.

[NayusDante]

You know, I think we're still in the mindset that only certain companies can produce and market new consoles. With how standardized hardware is getting these days, it wouldn't be surprising to see LG or Samsung make a game console. Of course, they'd probably be tied to digital distribution at first, but there's no reason to leave out a disk drive for DVD playback and leave packaged games an open possibility.


I don't think that there's any money to be made on niche hardware, to be honest. Why develop an expensive piece of hardware with little to no third-party support and only market it to a small group? It would have to perform some other function like Blu-Ray playback or internet video services to sell well. Sony already did the DVR thing with the PSX, which combined PS2 and a DVR (and usurped my preferred abbreviation for PS1).

Everyone and their brother are making these multi-function media boxes now, and it's only a matter of time before we see a gaming console integrated into one. Watch the video on the TiVo homepage (http://www.tivo.com/) and see what their new box does. Sony is releasing a DVR add-on for PS3, but a truly integrated box like that would be a revolutionary console.

[buzz_n64]

You know, I think we're still in the mindset that only certain companies can produce and market new consoles. With how standardized hardware is getting these days, it wouldn't be surprising to see LG or Samsung make a game console. Of course, they'd probably be tied to digital distribution at first, but there's no reason to leave out a disk drive for DVD playback and leave packaged games an open possibility.


I don't think that there's any money to be made on niche hardware, to be honest. Why develop an expensive piece of hardware with little to no third-party support and only market it to a small group? It would have to perform some other function like Blu-Ray playback or internet video services to sell well. Sony already did the DVR thing with the PSX, which combined PS2 and a DVR (and usurped my preferred abbreviation for PS1).

Everyone and their brother are making these multi-function media boxes now, and it's only a matter of time before we see a gaming console integrated into one. Watch the video on the TiVo homepage (http://www.tivo.com/) and see what their new box does. Sony is releasing a DVR add-on for PS3, but a truly integrated box like that would be a revolutionary console.

Samsung tried already with the Nuon, didn't work. The unreleased system Indrema wanted to include the Tivo feature, but they didn't have enough money to get their project going. To compete right now would be foolish, unless like some people have said, play to the niche market, and keep it profitable on the system hardware.

[j_factor]

I can see them partnering with a cablebox or BD player manufacturer to create a hybrid gaming-multimedia device. As we've seen, these device makers are competing with different added features like NetFlix, YouTube, etc. TiVo is supposedly trying to reinvent their image, so I'm sure that a gaming DVR would be a possibility.

Wasn't there supposed to be something exactly like that with Dreamcast compatibility, which would "keep the Dreamcast alive"? And then it never came out.

At this point I see no real reason for Sega, or anyone else to jump into the game console business. Sure, they could, but why would they want to?

[SegaAges]

Like publishers are going to pay for a fourth (or greater if we count handhelds) version for one of their games. The big stuff already costs crazy amounts of money to make, lets add to it by adding another system. Quality will drop even more.

Sega as a home console maker is dead. I wish people would get that into their heads. Sonic fans couldn't 'save' Sonic this generation (like any of them bought Sonic Unleased, let alone the shit that was Sonic The Hedgehog), they won't save a console with their support. There isn't a big enough market to bring the 'arcade' home ala the AES. Hell I can't even find arcades to go to.

But...
...I own Sonic Unleashed, Sonic '06, Sonic and the Secret Rings, Sonic and the Black Knight. hehehe

This topic comes up more and more.

Sega does not seem financially setup to handle the heavy blow a console does to them. A new arcade system is very, very possible. I could see that happening.

If Sega were truly planning it, they would definately need to wait and hope that the games this year will get them enough money to make more money than they did last year.

I could have missed a title or 2, but from what I have seen, these look like the big hitters for Sega this year:
Bayonetta, AvP, Sonic 4, Sonic and Mario at the Olympics, Alpha Protocol, Sonic All-Stars Racing.

This is better than previous years where they were relying on a single Sonic game that was from the storybook series for Wii or something.

Sega needs to get stable ground when it comes to being just a game company before it could even consider releasing a console.

Sega is everywhere in the arcades, but as for consoles, I would be very shocked if they released a new system.

If they had the money, now would be a good time to do it. The Wii hype has settled. The hype for getting one or the other consoles is not really there. Right now it seems to all be just about the games and the system, without a bunch of marketting behind it (well, there is some for the PS3, but not that huge).

If they want to do it, they better start getting hype up now, because everybody knows the holiday shopping season is the prime time to get hype up for this.

Me, personally, I am not holding my breath for a new home console.

For the record, I loved the DC before it went away. I did not even get a PS2 until after the DC stopped putting out games in North America.

[ambriglia]

IMO, it is not happening. from a business standpoint, it does not make sense for them. they will have to invest wayy too much money to make it happen. console systems are not very profitable.

the only way i see it happening is if they go a similar route nintendo did with the wii. cheap hardware and something innovative. something new. i dont think the franchises they own are strong enough. sonic is its only saving grace...

heh... you what would sell? a sonic FPS!!! hahahaha!

[Icarus Moonsight]

Hell I can't even find arcades to go to.

What a compelling problem for a product/solution that puts one in your living room! :D

I'm not buying into this story, but I'm not going to outright state that it's impossible either. Because frankly, it's not. A lot has shifted in the industry in the last 4 years... Remember, Atari said "No, thanks." to the NA rights and distribution of the Famicom. They thought it was impossible too.

Even still, odds are 19 to 1 against. But sometimes, one is enough.

[segagamer]

This story is complete rubbish!!! There is no way that SEGA would go back to the console hardware business. Too risky financially...

[Mimi Nakamura]

If true, it would be incredible.

[mr obscure]

No WAY!

1.they got a bad reputation with the stores.
2. now is not the time (economic cricis)
3. all there consoles after the magadrive where epic fail.

However. If they would try it they would have to go neo geo aes style.
It seems like a paradox but a super high priced elite system like the neo geo aes back in the day,would work.
And sega could pull it off,remember they pulled this off before the dreamcast was way ahead but this time they would have to go even further.

[Oobgarm]

And sega could pull it off

No WAY!!!

There is no possible way an "elite" console in the vein of an AES would be viable in today's gaming market.

I love how some people get a raging videogame boner over the thought of Sega making a new console, knowing that the end result is going to be nothing but blue balls.

[monkeychemist]

Oh come on! you guys are so closed minded! Who wouldn't jump on a new SEGA console right now? People are tired of Sony's expensive, lagging console as well as Microsoft's crappy, keeps on breaking console and Nintendo's gimmick has finally run its course. SEGA is a familiar name, it's not like a brand new company. They know the market and hopefully can learn from their mistakes. They have popular 1st party games, so, really it's as perfect of a time as ever to get back in the game!

[Oobgarm]

If you'd look past your own blind enthusiasm, you'd see that it would be suicide for them to even attempt it, given their financial position.

Not to mention that developers are already strapped as it is, producing games for 3 different consoles. What new IPs we're getting would disappear since those resources would likely go towards creating a version of a title for yet another platform.

Sony has Blu-Ray as an incentive for their console, not to mention their past 2 consoles were extremely well-received. Microsoft has LIVE, and the 360 has excellent brand penetration. Nintendo has their brand name that has consistently stood for successful consoles for the past 25 years, not to mention the Wii's ridiculously wide customer appeal.

What does Sega have? Their last 2 consoles, the latest of which was out close to 10 years ago, were both considerably less-than-stellar in the marketplace(no matter how much YOU liked the Dreamcast). Their brand name is tarnished not only from their console screw-ups, but their sub-par game production since they made the decision to focus strictly on software. They just don't have what it takes to produce a console that will have wide consumer appeal. A niche market console in today's day and age just wouldn't cut it.

You're not close-minded when you're using rational thought.

[mr obscure]

No WAY!!!

There is no possible way an "elite" console in the vein of an AES would be viable in today's gaming market.

I love how some people get a raging videogame boner over the thought of Sega making a new console, knowing that the end result is going to be nothing but blue balls.

YOUR WRONG

An elite insane high priced console from sega or anybody else would work!
Why? Companies lose there most money on hardware and try to make money from software.So if you pump these prices up extreme high it could work.(low risk,low production)
Nintendo is on the casual market,M$ and sony are medium hardcore gamer market,so the elite market is way open.
I can't see other companies developing much for a new sega system.
So a high priced elite sega system with only high quality game releases is the way to go.
It seems strange in a economic crisis,but in the top is always money.
Look at it like this,The normal cars dropped further in sales then the more luxery cars.

[Oobgarm]

NO U

PS3 was basically a failure at $600. It's flourishing at $250.

If you're saying that choking supply of moderately priced goods for high priced ones will cause sales to skyrocket, you're insane. People will do without.

It's feast or famine. Why sell a few high-priced items when you can sell that same item many times over at a lower price and still come away with the same profits? Having the item in more people's hands seems like the way to go.

High-priced software would not make up for the cost of designing, developing, producing, marketing, and supporting an entirely new games console. You'd have to count on every adpoter to buy tons of software, and people aren't made out of money you know.

[Mimi Nakamura]

If you'd look past your own blind enthusiasm, you'd see that it would be suicide for them to even attempt it, given their financial position.

Not to mention that developers are already strapped as it is, producing games for 3 different consoles. What new IPs we're getting would disappear since those resources would likely go towards creating a version of a title for yet another platform.

Sony has Blu-Ray as an incentive for their console, not to mention their past 2 consoles were extremely well-received. Microsoft has LIVE, and the 360 has excellent brand penetration. Nintendo has their brand name that has consistently stood for successful consoles for the past 25 years, not to mention the Wii's ridiculously wide customer appeal.

What does Sega have? Their last 2 consoles, the latest of which was out close to 10 years ago, were both considerably less-than-stellar in the marketplace(no matter how much YOU liked the Dreamcast). Their brand name is tarnished not only from their console screw-ups, but their sub-par game production since they made the decision to focus strictly on software. They just don't have what it takes to produce a console that will have wide consumer appeal. A niche market console in today's day and age just wouldn't cut it.

You're not close-minded when you're using rational thought.

You forgot to mention how Sega is #1 in the Arcade market, a market where they produce hardware and software, not to mention it being the market where the most hardcore gamers spend most of their money. It would take a while to see a return on their investment, but there's little doubt that SEGA could create a successful console for a niche market. The only question would be whether SEGA could get their hands on enough capital for such a venture.

You said "A niche market console in today's day and age just wouldn't cut it", which makes no sense at all. How can you say such a thing when the video game market is so huge? Huge markets are where niches thrive!

[Oobgarm]

You forgot to mention how Sega is #1 in the Arcade market, a market where they produce hardware and software, not to mention it being the market where the most hardcore gamers spend most of their money. It would take a while to see a return on their investment, but there's little doubt that SEGA could create a successful console for a niche market. The only question would be whether SEGA could get their hands on enough capital for such a venture.

The only places that arcades thrive are in Japan. That scene has long been absent from the US. Point out a successful arcade chain in the US, and none of this Dave & Busters/GameWorks crap that's essentially a sports bar with some video games and relies on ticket redemption games to make any sort of profit with electronic entertainment.


You said "A niche market console in today's day and age just wouldn't cut it", which makes no sense at all. How can you say such a thing when the video game market is so huge? Huge markets are where niches thrive!

Companies don't want to take risks. That's why you see Guitar Hero and Call of Duty games and sports titles being recycled on an almost yearly basis. THe market right now, given the size and amount of money it takes to make these games, cannot support a mass-market device that will *only* cater to hardcore gamers.

[mr obscure]

NO U

PS3 was basically a failure at $600. It's flourishing at $250.

If you're saying that choking supply of moderately priced goods for high priced ones will cause sales to skyrocket, you're insane. People will do without.

It's feast or famine. Why sell a few high-priced items when you can sell that same item many times over at a lower price and still come away with the same profits? Having the item in more people's hands seems like the way to go.

High-priced software would not make up for the cost of designing, developing, producing, marketing, and supporting an entirely new games console. You'd have to count on every adpoter to buy tons of software, and people aren't made out of money you know.


You don't understand?!
Remember the neo geo aes,have you ever seen 1 back in the day?
I had a snes and most friends had a snes or megadrive.
1 Friend had a neo geo aes when compaired to my snes i was like FUCK:yipes:

You can't compaire this with a $600 ps3 and 360,wii competition
The new sega system has to be way Ahead.Super high priced and elite.
The idea of the neo geo was not about money but about something exclusive ,bringing the arcade home.
Something like this could work for a new sega sytem the would have to stand out BIG.If they would try to copy the wii or come with something like the 360 or ps3 ther doomed.

[monkeychemist]

If you'd look past your own blind enthusiasm, you'd see that it would be suicide for them to even attempt it, given their financial position.

Not to mention that developers are already strapped as it is, producing games for 3 different consoles. What new IPs we're getting would disappear since those resources would likely go towards creating a version of a title for yet another platform.

Sony has Blu-Ray as an incentive for their console, not to mention their past 2 consoles were extremely well-received. Microsoft has LIVE, and the 360 has excellent brand penetration. Nintendo has their brand name that has consistently stood for successful consoles for the past 25 years, not to mention the Wii's ridiculously wide customer appeal.

What does Sega have? Their last 2 consoles, the latest of which was out close to 10 years ago, were both considerably less-than-stellar in the marketplace(no matter how much YOU liked the Dreamcast). Their brand name is tarnished not only from their console screw-ups, but their sub-par game production since they made the decision to focus strictly on software. They just don't have what it takes to produce a console that will have wide consumer appeal. A niche market console in today's day and age just wouldn't cut it.

You're not close-minded when you're using rational thought.

Your blind hatred for SEGA is making you miss my point. Contrary to what you suggest, I was never a fanboy. In fact the only system of theirs I actually played was the SMS. My point is that this generation of consoles has sucked. X360 is a complete disaster of a system with the RRoD situation. The Wii was super popular but like I said the novelty of their gimmick is wearing off. There are tons of articles out there starting to point out that trend. The PS3 is my fav, you can probably call me a Sony fanboy but was too expensive for too long and although catching up is way behind the others. So, people are ready for something new. With the current economy, SEGA can probably find a factory willing to manufacture really cheap. I really don't see this such a ridiculous financial risk. Sony did it with PS1 and made a killing!

[Oobgarm]

Remember the neo geo aes,have you ever seen 1 back in the day?

Is SNK still making game consoles? No. They're making arcade games and porting them to consoles.

You put things at a premium price, leaps and bounds over what's currently available, and you only serve a small number of customers.

[Oobgarm]

Your blind hatred for SEGA is making you miss my point. Contrary to what you suggest, I was never a fanboy. In fact the only system of theirs I actually played was the SMS. My point is that this generation of consoles has sucked. X360 is a complete disaster of a system with the RRoD situation. The Wii was super popular but like I said the novelty of their gimmick is wearing off. There are tons of articles out there starting to point out that trend. The PS3 is my fav, you can probably call me a Sony fanboy but was too expensive for too long and although catching up is way behind the others. So, people are ready for something new. With the current economy, SEGA can probably find a factory willing to manufacture really cheap. I really don't see this such a ridiculous financial risk. Sony did it with PS1 and made a killing!

I don't have a hatred for Sega, I was a Dreamcast launch buyer and supported it all the way until its death. I have a small stash of Genesis games I enjoy from time to time as well.

You mention how Sony pulled it off...but don't forget that Sony is/was a huge corporation with cash to spend on such a venture. Sega doesn't have that luxury. I don't think that tons of people would be excited to drop money on a new, unproven gaming console from a manufacturer that doesn't have a good track record when it comes to gaming machines, especially with the economy in its current state.

And even though you say this generation of consoles has sucked, they ALL are still selling pretty well. Nintendo and Sony have actually reached a point that their machines are somewhat tough to locate in stores.

[Mimi Nakamura]

The only places that arcades thrive are in Japan. That scene has long been absent from the US. Point out a successful arcade chain in the US, and none of this Dave & Busters/GameWorks crap that's essentially a sports bar with some video games and relies on ticket redemption games to make any sort of profit with electronic entertainment.

SEGA is a Japanese company, remember? If you're going to release a niche product, the first thing you do is look at your home market.



Companies don't want to take risks. That's why you see Guitar Hero and Call of Duty games and sports titles being recycled on an almost yearly basis. THe market right now, given the size and amount of money it takes to make these games, cannot support a mass-market device that will *only* cater to hardcore gamers.

I agree that the cost of games has had a huge influence on game creativity / originality, however a well-designed console with thoughtful design tools could help to counteract this. SEGA, although much less now than in the past, is still a company that takes risks when it comes to innovation and originality.

The PS3 seems to be a programmer's nightmare, and the XBOX brand will never be seen as cool anywhere outside of America. SEGA still has a decent brand image, it's a strictly games company which can only be a good thing, not a soulless money making machine like Microsoft or Sony.

It's unlikely that SEGA will release a new console, but if they do, it might just save this culture we call Video Gaming.


High-priced software would not make up for the cost of designing, developing, producing, marketing, and supporting an entirely new games console. You'd have to count on every adpoter to buy tons of software, and people aren't made out of money you know.

Video game sales have been hardly affected by the financial crisis, in fact we've seen some record sales in some areas.

[Oobgarm]

SEGA is a Japanese company, remember? If you're going to release a niche product, the first thing you do is look at your home market.

Right, but the Japanese market has been in the toilet. When taking such a huge gamble, they can't just look at the home market and rely on that for their proposal. If it's not going to sell well in other parts of the world, it's probably not worth the investment risks.



I agree that the cost of games has had a huge influence on game creativity / originality, however a well-designed console with thoughtful design tools could help to counteract this. SEGA, although much less now than in the past, is still a company that takes risks when it comes to innovation and originality.

The PS3 seems to be a programmer's nightmare, and the XBOX brand will never be seen as cool anywhere outside of America. SEGA still has a decent brand image, it's a strictly games company which can only be a good thing, not a soulless money making machine like Microsoft or Sony.

It's unlikely that SEGA will release a new console, but if they do, it might just save this culture we call Video Gaming.

Even with well-thought-out design tools, it's still going cost a lot of money to make games for it. You've got tons of indie devs making games for the 360, so it can't be THAT hard(in comparison, mind you), but the top tier titles, the "killer apps", those cost insane amounts of money to produce.

I don't disagree with you that Sega is an innovative company, but I don't think they have what it takes to survive in the console market again.

[SegaAges]

Right, but the Japanese market has been in the toilet. When taking such a huge gamble, they can't just look at the home market and rely on that for their proposal. If it's not going to sell well in other parts of the world, it's probably not worth the investment risks.




Even with well-thought-out design tools, it's still going cost a lot of money to make games for it. You've got tons of indie devs making games for the 360, so it can't be THAT hard(in comparison, mind you), but the top tier titles, the "killer apps", those cost insane amounts of money to produce.

I don't disagree with you that Sega is an innovative company, but I don't think they have what it takes to survive in the console market again.

You are correct in one aspect. If you are not making a AAA title, it does not cost too much. I have been working on an indie game in my free time, and I have used about $200 for it thus far.

I think, for me, I would love to see this and also love to not see it.

Let me explain: If this happened, it would seriously make or break Sega. It would be awesome to see them doing consoles again, but if it failed, then that would be that.

If they were going to do it, they would really have to have some type of niche or gimmick. Let's face it, only a slin few of us would buy a Sega console because it was a Sega console.

Why should Joe Shmoe from 2 blocks down thrown down another 200-300 on a new console when the same good AAA titles are already getting released on PS3, which he already owns.

It would have to come down to the 1st party games, and that means that Sega would need to start healing some wounds of the non fanboys to get them back on board with Sega's 1st party games.

Me, I will buy pretty much anything that has Sonic in it and then explain whether I liked it or not later on. Not everybody is like me. The masses would need a reason to either switch their current console, or get another. Regardless of what I thought of the games, you can easily go online and see what the masses though of the latest Sonic games, which is Sega's posterboy.

Unfortunately, it might come down to Sonic 4. If Sega can pull off Sonic 4 and restore some faith to the masses, then it is possible to get people rearing for Sega again.

The trailers are making this look like it will be a direct successor or Sonic 3, which is exactly what everybody and their mom has been bitching about. Now the answer is here. If the game dissappoints, there will just be too many people turning a blind eye.

Right now, it seems that many people are just super skeptical of Sonic, but still willing to give him a nother chance. That is all Sega can ask for at this point.

When it comes to a console, they are definately not ready. It is not all financial. Even if you can afford it, if nobody is going to buy it, nobody is going to buy it. You need the masses to support you.

Based on Sega's track record, they need to build that up. As I have posted before, this year will be a very good year for Sega. It is a good start.

Sega can make another console. Don't expect anything anytime soon unless you are consolizing Naomi's and TriForces yourself. Sega is rebuilding even still.

They last couple of years they have been trying to push out different stuff, but it just has not been working out. They don't have near as many movie-2-game releases this year (I don't count AvP since it is not based on the movie series, but the old school series that was out on PC and Jaguar).

This year they have some very quality titles coming out, plus Sonic 4 is coming out this summer. If Sega can make it through this year with much higher profits, than next yeat is looking even better.

If Sega is able to rebuild themselves next year like they are doing this year, then they might be able to afford it. Unfortunately, they need to do some kind of rebuilding whether I like it or not. Golden Compass: The Game? Really? I am a Sega fanboy and even I think that is a bad idea.

As for arcade systems, yeah, I can see another upgrade easily happening.

Home consoles, Sega is just not ready to do it yet. It is possible. Very possible. They just need to go one step at a time for it.

[ShinobiMan]

It's unlikely that SEGA will release a new console, but if they do, it might just save this culture we call Video Gaming.

Quoted for truth.

[j_factor]

No WAY!


No WAY!!!

http://i41.tinypic.com/ng29gx.png

[kupomogli]

Just listening to the CheapAssGamer podcast and found out that Sega has released 10 games in the past three months.

I knew of four games. Yakuza 3, Resonance of Fate, Sands of Destruction, and Bayonetta. The other ones I either didnt know were Sega titles as I wasn't interested, or I didn't know about the games being released.

Didn't Sony or Microsoft say it's not what games are on what system, it's what first party games are on what system? Sega looks like it'd beat all three games when it comes to first party developed and published titles.

[NayusDante]

Resonance of Fate is not a Sega-developed title, it's actually Tri-Ace. Still, the fact that they're a publisher for third-party developers is a good thing should they attempt another home console. I don't think they'd have any trouble securing a solid set of launch titles with their connections.

Microsoft doesn't exactly have first-party games. They just bring certain developers close enough that you could argue that those developers are assimilated into Microsoft. Sega could be like Nintendo was with Rare back in the 90s, except now it seems they could have more than one company in that type of relationship.

[kupomogli]

That's why I said developed and published titles. Resonance of Fate is published by Sega so it's a Sega game. It was also published in both the US and Japan so I don't know if Sega funded it or what, as I'm sure tri-Ace could have gotten Enix/Square Enix to publish it like all their other games for the longest time.

[Jisho23]

Lets be honest; Sega is probably not going to be making a new home console, the article was probably talking about a new arcade board. If they were making a console, I have no idea what they would do. A direct competitor to the current generation would be difficult (but not impossible, market for Wii is almost saturated and there are plenty of people aggravated with the current generation in general) and a high-end console like the PS3 is too risky for a smaller company.

The only possibility I see would be to make a handheld, but once again I have no idea HOW you would do it. The only option I could see with the handheld market is (ironically) to make a PSP-Go that is actually worthwhile (all digital) and secure some damn exclusives.

[Icarus Moonsight]

For sure they are developing a new arcade board system. Also producing a retail console based on that hardware is relatively cheap, since you are just transferring an existent architecture into a box for home AV output. Even a handheld would require much more investment, just into development of a completely new architecture and product (the screen, battery etc). Production would also cost more, since an arcade board and handheld production would not share any process and require completely separate production. Completely different components, which lead to more contracts with more vendors. That's much more liability...

The chance of an arcade system based console is definitely slim. The chances of another system, completely separate from an existing architecture, is practically nil.

[lagartija_nick]

It is rather curious how Sega is just shoving games out the door at an alarming rate. It seems they have had a new release almost every week since the beginning of the year.

But then nothing is announced beyond Valkyrie Chronicles 2, Alpha Protocol and Sonic 4.

It probably means nothing but these rapid fire releases (most of witch received zero to little promotion) coupled with what seems like a pretty empty remainder of the year and recent console speculation makes me wonder.

[G-Boobie]

The chance of an arcade system based console is definitely slim. The chances of another system, completely separate from an existing architecture, is practically nil.

Truth.

Let's look at the facts for a moment: the Sega we knew and loved in the Genesis, Saturn and Dreamcast days is dead. They produce very little in the way of new, original titles, and those they DO produce sell like shit everywhere but in Japan... And if you look at how few copies you need to sell over there to hit top ten in Enterbrain, that ain't cutting the mustard. Valkyria Chronicles is STILL my favorite PS3 exclusive, and it failed. Yakuza, Yakuza 2? Failed. Yakuza 3? In the process of failing as we speak. Virtua Fighter 5? It shouldn't have failed, but it did. TWICE. So badly that they haven't released 5R for home consoles at all. Remember the atrocity that Phantasy Star Universe was? Are we starting to see the pattern, here?

And of course, no conversation about latter day Sega would be complete without mention of my Dawgge Shadow the Hedgehog, may his chromed out gat cap bitches for all eternity.

Consider how much money it costs to produce a competitive game these days. Consider that third party developers, who are in a large way responsible for whether platforms live or die, are already spread thin with THREE home consoles with THREE different system architectures. AND two handhelds. Three if you count iPhone, but that's a different can of worms entirely. Also, let us not forget the latest gold rush gaming market: Facebook. Are they going to spend time and money developing for yet ANOTHER platform, produced by a company that's already failed in that market? Nope.

Give it up already, Sega people. I love my Saturn and Dreamcast as much as anyone, but they're from a decidedly different time.

[orangutan]

Apparently SEGA has a new console in development for the next generation, currently going under various code names such as "Neptune" and "SEGADRIVE"

The author of the following blog has been acting as the Deep Throat of this particular project for the last year, revealing highly confidential inside information much to the chagrin of SEGA SAMMY, who have gone to the lengths of forcibly closing his operations on numerous occasions, only for him to reappear under a different host.

http://seganewswire.webs.com/apps/blog/show/4007268-recap-neptune-segadrive-specifications

[Enigmus]

To me, this reeks of fake.

How many times do we have to raise hope for a new Sega system? The Sega of 1980-2001 is gone, the one now is owned by another company. It isn't going to happen.

[Kitsune Sniper]

Yes, their next console!

Another arcade platform, I bet.

[kedawa]

Apparently SEGA has a new console in development for the next generation, currently going under various code names such as "Neptune" and "SEGADRIVE"

The author of the following blog has been acting as the Deep Throat of this particular project for the last year, revealing highly confidential inside information much to the chagrin of SEGA SAMMY, who have gone to the lengths of forcibly closing his operations on numerous occasions, only for him to reappear under a different host.

http://seganewswire.webs.com/apps/blog/show/4007268-recap-neptune-segadrive-specifications
Fuck right off with this bullshit.
It's getting really old.

[jcalder8]

If I'd wanted to see something fake I'd be browsing porn right now.

[Pichu]

Bullshit. It won't happen.

*goes back to Saturn*

[otoko]

I feel as though I've seen this before.. and before that, and before that...

[Compute]

Bah, that's not the Neptune I want, anyway. I'm surprised they didn't throw in specs for a Sprint-enabled portable right away.

[Berserker]

OP: I have condensed your baseless rumors into a single thread so that people might have an easier time ignoring you.

[Greg2600]

If you want to fool people, next time don't call SEGA's "new" console project the SAME name of a canceled one from 15 years ago. LOL