Sega will explore using Microsoft’s Azure cloud computing platform to power next-gen video games.<\/b>
\nNo, Sega isn\u2019t merging with Microsoft, as past rumors have suggested. But the Japanese video game maker is tapping Microsoft\u2019s Azure cloud computing platform to potentially develop a next-generation wave of games. On Monday, Sega announced it had entered into a \u201cstrategic alliance\u201d focused on using Microsoft Azure data centers \u201cto produce large-scale, global games.\u201d \u201cThe alliance would form a key part of Sega\u2019s mid to long-term strategy, allowing the business to move forward with \u2018Super Game,\u2019 a new initiative for developing new and innovative titles where the key focuses are \u2018Global,\u2019 \u2018Online,\u2019 \u2018Community\u2019 and \u2018IP utilization,\u2019\u201d the company says. The announcement lacks specifics. But the partnership represents Sega\u2019s effort to build video games suited for a future where online connectivity is faster and more pervasive than ever before. As a result, consumers will be able to play even more video game content whenever and wherever they go. \u201cThis proposed alliance represents Sega looking ahead, and by working with Microsoft to anticipate such trends as they accelerate further in future, the goal is to optimize development processes and continue to bring high-quality experiences to players using Azure cloud technologies,\u201d the company says. Other priorities include partnering with Microsoft Azure to improve gaming technologies related to network infrastructure and communication tools, which are key to powering multiplayer titles. The announcement didn\u2019t name any gaming franchises. But it\u2019s easy to imagine the company using Microsoft Azure to power new versions of Sega\u2019s hit game series such as Phantasy Star Online, Yakuza, or Sonic The Hedgehog. In the announcement, Microsoft adds: \u201cTogether we will reimagine how games get built, hosted, and operated, with a goal of adding more value to players and Sega alike.\u201d In 2019, Microsoft also entered into a similar partnership with PlayStation maker Sony to develop \u201cfuture cloud solutions\u201d over Azure\u2019s data centers.<\/p>\n