- Sega will remove more than 60 classic games from digital platforms on December 6, 2024.
- Iconic Mega Drive and Dreamcast titles such as Crazy Taxi and Virtua Fighter 2 will be part of this retirement.
- Users who have already purchased the games will still be able to access them.
- There is speculation that Sega may release new compilations or remakes of these games in the future.
More than 60 classic Sega games will disappear from digital stores starting December 6, 2024. This has been confirmed by the company itself, leaving many fans with mixed opinions regarding this decision. Among the affected titles are some of the most beloved ones from the Mega Drive and Dreamcast consoles, which has raised some concerns about the preservation of these games in the future.
The withdrawal will affect several platformsIncluding Steam, PlayStation, Xbox y Nintendo SwitchAmong the games that will no longer be available we find authentic gems such as Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, Golden Ax y Virtua Fighter 2. However, Users who already have them in their library will be able to continue enjoying them. without any problem, although they will not be able to purchase them again once the deadline has passed.
Why are these games being retired?
No official reason has been given for this mass recall. However, some speculate that Sega may be planning to release New compilations, emulation improvements or remastered versions of these classics, something that could come with additional features like online play or more polished experiences for modern consoles.
As well, There are rumors about future remakes of titles like 'Crazy Taxi' and 'Shinobi', which could be behind the decision to retire old versions to make way for these new versions.
For those who love retro games, this news has been especially hard to digest. Games like Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master, Streets of Rage y Space Channel 5: Part 2 These are some of the names that will disappear, which has generated a climate of uncertainty about the future of these titles within the digital ecosystem.
Full list of games that will be removed
The list of games that will be affected by this withdrawal is extensive and includes titles from different platforms. Here are some of the most notable names:
- Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle
- Altered Beast
- Golden Ax
- Virtua Fighter 2
- Jet Set Radio
- sonic spinball
- Streets of Rage (1, 2 and 3)
- Gunstar Heroes
It is important to note that well-known games from other sagas such as Sonic y Phantasy Star are also included. On Steam, in addition to individual games, the Dreamcast Collection Bundle, which brings together several titles released on the legendary Sega console, will also be part of this withdrawal.
Video game preservation is in danger
Many fans have expressed concern about the preservation of these titles.The disappearance of so many classic games in one movement has sparked conversations about the importance of preserving the history of the video games for future generations. Some argue that companies should work on offering better, permanent digital solutions so that these titles do not fall into oblivion.
Current copyright laws in certain countries, such as the United States, have made it difficult to preserve many of these games, something that worries both gamers and developers and researchers in the field. From a preservation perspective, the disappearance of these titles from digital stores could represent a significant loss for the history of video games.
In another sense, many think that this massive withdrawal is due to commercial strategies that can be aimed at launching future improved products, which could also be considered a positive thing if they are versions that add more value to the originals.
The deadline is December 6, so players interested in purchasing any of these titles should keep that date in mind. For those who already own the games, there will be no problem continuing to enjoy them, but once the deadline has passed, there will be no second chances for those who want to buy them later.
In the meantime, the community remains attentive to future announcements from Sega, hoping that this decision will be a step towards new experiences, but keeping nostalgia and legacy intact for the most passionate players.
I'm Alberto Navarro and I'm passionate about everything related to technology, from cutting-edge gadgets to software and video games of all kinds. My interest in digital began with video games and continued in the world of digital marketing. I have been writing about the digital world on different platforms since 2019, sharing the latest news in the sector. I also try to write in an original way so that you can stay up to date while having fun.
I studied Sociology at university and completed my studies with a Master's in Digital Marketing. So if you have any questions, I'll share with you all my experience in the world of digital marketing, technology and video games.