Sega has been dropping hints about what’s next for Jet Set Radio as the beloved game is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2025. The original was a hit on the Dreamcast, and fans are crossing their fingers for a fresh take or maybe even a brand-new game. The recent success of titles like Bomb Rush Cyberfunk suggests there’s still a strong desire for games in the Jet Set Radio style.
In an interview not too long ago, Sega acknowledged the big anniversary of Jet Set Radio. Known for its vibrant integration of funk and hip-hop, the game allowed players to cruise through urban environments, tagging walls with graffiti to claim their space, all while dodging law enforcement.
Jet Set Radio is hailed as a standout in the Dreamcast’s library, and its rebellious undertones combined with slick skater flair captured the essence of the late 90s and early 2000s. Game director Masayoshi Kikuchi drew inspiration from films like Fight Club and the American hip-hop culture of the 80s, particularly graffiti art. Meanwhile, Hideki Naganuma’s soundtrack added infectious beats that helped cement the game’s legacy as a soundtrack legend in gaming. It seems fans might have more to look forward to, as Sega hints at upcoming news regarding a new Jet Set Radio installment.
In an exchange with 4Gamer, Kikuchi, who helmed the original games, teased some intriguing prospects for the franchise’s milestone year. “I’m still working on a new Jet Set Radio game. With the 25th anniversary in 2025, we’re thinking of ways to celebrate,” Kikuchi shared. He refrained from specifics about whether anything game-changing would be unveiled during the anniversary, but hinted at a reboot showcased during The Game Awards 2023. Moreover, Sega isn’t just focusing on Jet Set Radio; they’re breathing new life into other classic series such as Crazy Taxi, Shinobi, Streets of Rage, and Golden Axe.
As recent releases like Bomb Rush Cyberfunk tap into nostalgic gamer vibes, they may have nudged others to dive back into Jet Set Radio. The success of Bomb Rush Cyberfunk in 2023 is a testament to the audience’s appetite for this genre. It built upon the mechanics of Jet Set Radio—whether that’s graffiti or movement options like BMX and skateboards—proving there’s still a market for these experiences. The original creators apparently agree, seeing the potential for a renewed Jet Set Radio to thrive today.
Fans of Sega will likely be excited to learn that the original masterminds behind Jet Set Radio are onboard for its revival. In a chat with the Washington Post, Sega’s Shuji Utsumi mentioned that the original developers, including art and game designer Ryuta Ueda, are collaborating with Kikuchi on this long-anticipated reboot, eyeing a potential 2027 launch.
Jet Set Radio invites players into a world where they can tag, grind, and perform tricks all fueled by catchy rhythms. In this SEGA classic, gamers fight for turf across a stylized cityscape, tagging everything from walls to rival gang members, but always keeping an eye out for the police. Whether or not the new installment will capture the same magic is yet to be seen, but anticipation is building as fans await more news.
