Shuji Utsumi
Reporting and statements that mention Shuji Utsumi.
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Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner can't remember why he green-lit Kingdom Hearts
Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner admitted he cannot recall why he approved the pitch for the Kingdom Hearts video game series. Eisner, now an investor in Delphi Interactive, was questioned about the series' origins after a panel in New York. An anecdote from former Disney Japan employee Shuji Utsumi detailed the experimental nature of the pitch and the groundwork required for its approval.
SEGA president: “Sonic kind of exists as a symbol for SEGA”
SEGA president Shuji Utsumi stated that the Sonic the Hedgehog series is a symbol for the company, and its success directly impacts SEGA's overall performance. Despite the series' varied history, it remains SEGA's flagship franchise.
SEGA talks importance of Sonic, failing to reach its goal, wanted new game to sell more
SEGA president Shuji Utsumi discussed the importance of Sonic the Hedgehog as a symbol for the company and how its success, particularly the movie, can boost other IPs. He also acknowledged that SEGA did not meet its goals for global expansion of Sonic titles last year and that the latest Sonic game did not sell as well as hoped, leading to measures to improve sales power.
Sega Europe vet Post steps down as West Studios COO, Rovio's Pelletier-Normand taking his place
Jurgen Post is stepping down as COO of Sega Europe's West Studios and will be replaced by Rovio's CEO, Alex Pelletier-Normand, who will hold both positions. Post will remain with Sega Europe in an advisory capacity, while Tatsuyuki Miyazaki takes over his regional managing director responsibilities. This transition follows Sega's acquisition of Rovio in 2023.
SEGA will host an official session at Cannes Lions for Sonic’s 35th anniversary
SEGA will host a special session at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2026 to discuss the evolution of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise as part of its 35th anniversary campaign. The session will feature Shuji Utsumi and Takashi Iizuka.
Sega is lowering the priority of games-as-a-service titles
Sega is reducing the priority of its games-as-a-service titles following weak performance from new free-to-play games like Sonic Rumble Party and a delay in other launches. The company has also canceled its "Super Game" initiative, which involved partnering with Microsoft for cloud-based game development. Personnel have been shifted from GaaS to full-game development to focus on core IPs.
SEGA Cancels Its Super Game Project
SEGA has announced the cancellation of its ambitious "Super Game" project, which aimed to create new titles based on dormant franchises and push conventional game boundaries. While the specific reasons for the cancellation were not disclosed, the company reaffirmed its commitment to reviving classic series like Jet Set Radio, Crazy Taxi, Shinobi, Streets of Rage, and Golden Axe. Several other titles have also been internally delayed.
JAKKS Pacific X Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Agreement Revealed
JAKKS Pacific and Disguise have entered a multi-year partnership with SEGA for Sonic the Hedgehog 4, which is set to release on March 19, 2027. The collaboration will involve the design, development, and manufacturing of various merchandise, including action figures, plush toys, playsets, costumes, and accessories, all slated for release in early 2027. Both companies expressed excitement about continuing their successful collaboration to bring new Sonic-themed products to fans.
JAKKS Pacific announces agreement with SEGA for Sonic the Hedgehog 4 movie
JAKKS Pacific and its costume division Disguise have announced a multi-year partnership with SEGA for merchandise related to the upcoming film Sonic the Hedgehog 4, set to release in March 2027. The collaboration will produce a range of products including action figures, plush toys, playsets, and costumes, all expected to launch in early 2027.
