The cult hit Jet Set Radio franchise could be gearing up for a major reveal next year, as SEGA drops hints about an anniversary celebration. This is followed by the company’s surprise reveal at The Game Awards 2023, announcing it’s doing a revival of dormant IPs like Crazy Taxi and Shinobi. In Japanese media 4Gamer‘s ‘Game Industry Figures’ 2025 Aspirations’ feature, Jet Set Radio developers wrote intriguing tidbits about the franchise’s future in 2025.
“We’re still working on a new Jet Set Radio game,” said Masayoshi Kikuchi, the series director. “Incidentally, 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of Jet Set Radio, so we’re thinking about how to celebrate it.” His comments suggest that his team and SEGA might be planning a special event or announcement for fans next year.
Meanwhile, the series’ chief graphic designer Ryuta Ueda, added his dedication to preserving the original games’ soul while juggling development and new fatherhood.
“I am involved in the new production of Jet Set Radio. Although the birth of my child this year makes it difficult for me to be fully involved in the project, I am making every effort to ensure that it retains the soul of the old game. Please look forward to new information!” he wrote.
Both series veterans’ involvement was announced shortly after the The Game Awards 2023 reveal. SEGA Japan’s YouTube account shared a video featuring Masayoshi Kikuchi and Ryuta Ueda talking about developing a new Jet Set Radio for 2025 and beyond. The company was also reportedly reuniting the original team alongside fresh talent for the project.
Given its cult status and unique blend of urban-inspired visuals and music, the hype among fans is already building. Various developers have even paid tribute to the series’ eye-catching theme, such as Bomb Rush Cyberfunk and Hover, to fill the hole.
Jet Set Radio‘s 25th anniversary in 2025 should offer SEGA the perfect opportunity to reveal more about the highly anticipated sequel.
With Kikuchi and Ueda leading the gang, the odds are looking good for 2025 to mark the long-awaited return of Jet Set Radio. For now, just keep your skates oiled up and your spray cans stocked. You’ll never know when the next train to Tokyo-to will come.
