As we gear up for the 25th anniversary of Jet Set Radio in 2025, Sega has been fueling anticipation with hints about the franchise’s future. This iconic game, originally released on the Dreamcast, remains a fan favorite, and there’s a strong call for either a remaster or a brand-new entry. The recent success of Bomb Rush Cyberfunk highlights the enduring appeal of games inspired by Jet Set Radio’s unique style and gameplay.
In a recent conversation, Sega reflected on the upcoming anniversary and dropped tantalizing clues about what’s next for Jet Set Radio. Known for its vibrant mix of funk and hip-hop, the game invites players to cruise through urban landscapes, tagging spots with graffiti while evading the authorities.
A celebrated classic, Jet Set Radio is acclaimed as one of the finest titles from the Dreamcast era, capturing anti-establishment vibes with its cool skater aesthetic prevalent in the late ’90s and early 2000s. The game’s director, Masayoshi Kikuchi, drew inspiration from the movie Fight Club and American hip-hop culture of the 1980s, particularly its graffiti artistry. Hideki Naganuma’s iconic soundtrack added to the game’s cultural impact, often hailed as one of the best in video game history. Recent buzz suggests gamers can expect more exciting news about a new Jet Set Radio installment soon.
Turning to insights from 4Gamer’s interview, Kikuchi, who helmed the original Jet Set Radio projects, hinted at the franchise’s 25th birthday celebrations. Although he avoided confirming any specific announcements, he did point to the groundwork laid during The Game Awards 2023 for a Jet Set Radio reboot. Additionally, Sega is reviving other classic series like Crazy Taxi, Shinobi, Streets of Rage, and Golden Axe, heralding fresh content for their longstanding fans.
Contemporary releases, such as Bomb Rush Cyberfunk, illustrate a thriving appetite for Jet Set Radio-inspired adventures. This game’s success, released in 2023, validates a market yearning for familiar yet evolved gameplay mechanics, providing more movement options like BMX bikes and skateboards. The enthusiasm surrounding Bomb Rush Cyberfunk reveals a promising appetite for a new Jet Set Radio game.
Fans will be thrilled to learn that original creators from the Jet Set Radio series are involved in the reboot. Sega’s Shuji Utsumi confirmed to the Washington Post that key figures and designers behind the original are back, collaborating alongside Kikuchi. With these elements in place, the reboot is ambitiously targeting a 2027 release, offering fans a chance to relive the thrill of this iconic series.
In Jet Set Radio, players paint the town their own way, tagging and performing tricks to the rhythm of Sega’s beat. Take control of Tokyo-to, mark your turf, and stay one step ahead of the enforcers. With its blend of graffiti, skating antics, and rebellious spirit, Jet Set Radio remains a cherished part of gaming history.
