Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio continue to work hard on the next Virtua Fighter game, having released several trailers that showcase fighting as the clear front-and-center priority. Entering a brand-new chapter of this iconic series is no small feat, and we had the opportunity to sit down with producer Riichiro Yamada to discuss the delicate balance between honoring the old and introducing the new, Wolf Hawkfield’s redesign, and the approach behind the trailers we’ve seen so far.
For Yamada, it’s an honor to be involved in the latest Virtua Fighter installment. He expressed deep respect for the series’ early major contributors, especially Yu Suzuki, and shared his excitement — and nerves — about carrying on their legacy.
One of the biggest challenges the team has faced is determining which features and elements of the series should be preserved and which should evolve. To ensure the game meets longtime players’ expectations, the team brought on a battle manager who was deeply involved with previous Virtua Fighter titles. This expert helps maintain the core balance and fight quality that fans have come to love.
When exploring new opportunities, Yamada explained that the team focuses on various factors, such as each character’s motivations for fighting and their story positions following Virtua Fighter 5. For example, fan-favorite Wolf Hawkfield appears to be coming out of retirement to step back into the ring.
Regarding Wolf’s return to pro wrestling, the team leaned into the character’s flashy, entertainment side. This shift moves Wolf toward a more showman-like persona, contrasting with his almost strictly athletic battle gear seen in previous games.
Striking the right balance between fresh ideas and familiar elements has been a difficult task, one that Yamada thinks about every day. By carefully blending innovation with tradition, the team aims to create a Virtua Fighter experience that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146022/new-virtua-fighter-project-interview