Virtua Fighter is back - popular fighting game announces its return helmed by Yakuza developer

After years of anticipation, Virtua Fighter is back. Sega has officially announced the return of the beloved franchise, unveiling Virtua Fighter 6 during The Game Awards 2024. This marks the first mainline entry in the iconic 3D fighting series since 2006 and is developed by the Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio — the team behind the Yakuza series.

Geoff Keighley confirmed the news during the broadcast, stating that more details about this title will be unveiled in a live stream later tonight, December 13.

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Virtua Fighter is back, a trailblazer showcase returns at The Game Awards 2024.

The reveal trailer, shared during The Game Awards 2024, offered a glimpse of what fans can expect, with Sega confirming a full showcase later tonight, December 13, 2024. This announcement is particularly exciting, as the franchise has been largely dormant apart from mini-game appearances in Yakuza titles and the remastered Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown in 2021.

Sega's partnership with Yakuza developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio gives VF6 an extra edge, especially given the studio's recent track record of delivering hits. Ryu Ga Gotoku is currently juggling multiple projects, including Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii and Project Century. Despite their busy slate, their involvement is a promising sign that the series’ high-octane gameplay and technical depth will remain intact.

A still from Virtua Fighter at TGA 2024 (Image via SEGA | TGA)

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The iconic fighting franchise returns

Virtua Fighter was first released in 1993 and is famous for pioneering 3D fighting games, thus holding the standard for technical prowess and innovation. Its effect has been felt on modern generations of fighting game franchises like Street Fighter and Tekken. And yet, the series hardly saw much activity lately except for 2021 with Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown being their most significant update since its release in 2006.

he Game Awards 2024 pre-show: All featured games

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After nearly 20 years, the franchise is ready to reclaim its spot at the top. The fans have waited long enough, and soon they'll see why Virtua Fighter is back in a way only Sega can deliver.

Stay tuned for more articles on the The Game Awards a Sportskeeda.