For a major part of Sega’s identity in the video game industry, the Japanese publisher is most recognized for its ambitions within the arcade cabinet business. Stretching as far back as three decades now, the firm has and continues to still entertain its consumers with in-person machines in locations across Japan. Branded with the firm’s name ‘Sega Club’, each location stands as a landmark for many visitors.
However, due to the ongoing concern of the novel coronavirus in regards to consumers safely returning to the arcades, it has been on a steep decline for majority of 2020. And given how uncertain it is until society will return to normal operations, Sega has decided to pull the plug on its arcade racket and will be selling the business.
According to Jiji, a Japanese news publication, disclosed that Sega will be selling majority stock of its arcade business. In total, approximately 85.1 percent of the stake in the business will be sold to Genda from Sega Sammy Holdings. It is told that the selling of the majority share in the operation will hand over more than 200 locations across Japan.
Elsewhere reported from Famitsu, the outlet relays details on how the transaction will play out after the payment is made. For one, the Sega name will still remain on the buildings sign. As for the developers that work at Sega, focus is told to shift from arcade to home consoles looking forward.
Previously this year, it was reported the Sega in efforts to resolve the issue at hand with COVID-19 would entertain the idea of cloud gaming with arcade cabinets. Dubbed ‘Fog Gaming’, the initiative would introduce new ports of entry for consumers without being required to enter a Sega Club. You can read the full report by heading here.
What do you think about the recent report on Sega’s arcade business?
Source: Kotaku
