SEGA Universe Playground Event to Feature Sakura Wars Creator Hiroi Oji Talk Show
Sega announced on July 13, 2026, that it will hold a one-day real event called SEGA UNIVERSE PLAYGROUND at Shibuya PARCO on August 8, 2026. The event is part of the SEGA UNIVERSE project, which aims to present the company's classic IPs through new experiences beyond video games. The marquee program is a two-part special talk show by Sakura Wars original creator Hiroi Oji, marking the franchise's 30th anniversary. Part one, titled "The Eve of Sakura Wars: The Road to the Project," will cover the series' creation and initial development. Part two, "Sakura Wars: A Storm of Romance in Taisho Cherry Blossoms," will discuss the cultural impact and social phenomenon that followed its release. Freelance announcer Atsuko Uchida will host. The event also includes live performances by DJs and beatmakers such as Knxwledge and DJ Mitsu the Beats, a T-shirt making workshop with designs from Sakura Wars, OutRun, and Dynamite Deka, food and drink collaborations with ON THE CORNER Shibuya, a collage art exhibition by high school student SORA inspired by NiGHTS into dreams..., and a large-screen playable setup of Guardian Heroes. Admission is free, though some activities require payment. A limited-time pop-up store, SEGA UNIVERSE POPUP STORE, will run from August 7 to August 30 on the 6th floor of Shibuya PARCO, selling merchandise tied to the SEGA UNIVERSE titles.