According to renowned German gaming publication Der Weltspieler, Microsoft has inked an exclusive licensing deal with SEGA for timed distribution rights to several SEGA properties.

Without further ado, here’s the list:

• Altered Beast
• Shinobi
• Jet Set Radio
• Virtual On
• Billy Hatcher (WTF?)

According to Der Weltspieler, the exclusivity period is for a full six years (ending December 31, 2027).

At the time of this writing, it’s unknown what exactly Microsoft has planned for these franchises on the Xbox platform. HD remakes/ports of Billy Hatcher, Jet Set Radio, Virtual On, and the PS2 version of Shinobi are all possibilities, but Altered Beast? And why Billy Hatcher? Who knows?

Given Sony’s recent abandonment of the Japanese market, Microsoft may very well be trying to use some of SEGA’s franchises to build a larger fan base in the Land of the Rising Sun. However, all of these details remain in the realm of speculation until an official announcement is made by SEGA or Microsoft.

What do you think of these SEGA franchises hitting the Xbox family of consoles? Are you ready to once again tune in to Jet Set Radio or roll out with Billy Hatcher? Let us know in the comments!

Source: Der Weltspieler

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