Sega Unveils New Virtua Fighter In-Engine Footage

Virtua Fighter Returns: A Glimpse into the Future

Sega has unveiled new in-engine footage of the upcoming Virtua Fighter game, marking the franchise's return after nearly two decades of dormancy. Developed by Sega's Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for the Yakuza series and the Virtua Fighter 5 remaster, this new installment promises a fresh take on the classic fighting game.

The recently released footage, shown at NVIDIA's 2025 CES keynote, isn't actual gameplay but rather a meticulously choreographed demonstration showcasing the game's visual style. While flawlessly executed, the sequence resembles a cinematic fight scene more than a typical fighting game match, hinting at a focus on polished presentation. This highly anticipated release follows recent entries in other major fighting game franchises, potentially solidifying the 2020s as a golden age for the genre.

Evolving Visuals: A Modern Virtua Fighter

The in-engine visuals offer a glimpse into the game's aesthetic direction. The footage depicts a departure from the franchise's signature hyper-stylized polygons, moving towards a more realistic visual style that blends elements of Tekken 8 and Street Fighter 6. The iconic character Akira is featured, sporting new outfits that deviate from his traditional look.

While details remain scarce, project director Riichirou Yamada's previous comments suggest a significant shift in the game's direction. Sega's commitment to revitalizing the Virtua Fighter brand is evident, with the company offering periodic updates and glimpses of the upcoming title. As Sega President and COO Shuji Utsumi declared in the VF Direct 2024 livestream, "Virtua Fighter is finally back!" The development, alongside Sega's announced Project Century, is being handled by the acclaimed Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio. This new entry promises to be a completely original addition to the series, building upon the legacy while embracing modern gaming aesthetics.