Popona, the official Vtuber under Sega who is known as the face of Phantasy Star series, has announced that he will graduate by the end of March 2025. He first shared this information in a broadcast titled Important notification [for everyone], before Sega released an official statement through Popona's social media accounts.
Popona's Career Journey as Sega's Official Vtuber
Popona first debuted in November 2018 as part of the promotion of Idol: Phantasy Star Saga, a mobile game that was preparing to be released in Japan. During the active period IdolIt is consistently present on various platforms, including the game's official Twitter account and its associated YouTube channel.
After Idol closed in Japan in January 2022, Sega has kept Popona around by making her the official Vtuber for Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis in February 2022. Since then, she has been closely associated with the PC and console online game. Popona was also involved in the first crossover event New Genesis in August 2022, in which Sega released avatar parts with Vtuber from Hololive Production.
In June 2023, Sega expanded Popona's role by making her the official Vtuber for the entire company. With this promotion, she was no longer limited to just Phantasy StarBut it also contributed to promoting various other games from Sega.
One of the pivotal moments in his journey was when he appeared in a live concert video at the Sega booth at Tokyo Game Show 2024, which further emphasizes its position as the company's digital icon.
Popona Farewell Concert
As part of graduation-her, Popona will hold a special concert titled Vtuber Graduation Live Concert on March 31, 2025. This concert will be her final farewell event as the face of Phantasy Star and Sega in the Vtuber world.
After this concert, some Popona-related services will be phased out. Sega has confirmed that membership to Popona's YouTube channel as well as its online store at BOOTH will be discontinued one month after the concert. graduationApril 30, 2025 to be precise.
Community Reaction and Impact
As a corporate Vtuber who has been around for more than six years, Popona's departure is significant news for the community. Phantasy Star and Vtuber fans in general. Many appreciated its role in establishing communication between Sega and the players, especially for those who were active in the Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis.
To date, Sega has not made a statement regarding the possibility of a replacement character or new initiatives after graduation Popona. However, her contribution to the community Phantasy Star and the Vtuber industry will still be remembered by many fans.
With Popona will graduate In March 2025, Sega will close one of the most important chapters in their digital promotion history. However, its influence in building relationships with the player community will be remembered as part of the evolution of Vtuber-based marketing in the gaming industry.
Source: Siliconera
