The much-anticipated Anime Expo 2025 is set to kick off in Los Angeles, and this year, SEGA and ATLUS are poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans. From July 3-6, visitors to the Los Angeles Convention Center can immerse themselves in a variety of engaging panels, performances, and exclusive merchandise dedicated to beloved franchises such as Persona and Hatsune Miku. With something for every fan, the lineup promises excitement and memorable interactions.
Event Highlights and Notable Panels
One of the standout events is the screening of **COLORFUL STAGE! The Movie: A Miku Who Can’t Sing Cheer Screening**, where fans can bring their lightsticks and join in the excitement. Scheduled for July 3 from 3:45 PM to 6:15 PM PT at the JW Marriott Diamond Ballroom, this event features live appearances from several voice actors, including Fumiya Imai and Kent Ito, who will take part in pre-screening discussions. The interaction with voice talents is a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with the creators behind these iconic characters.
Following this, on July 4, the **HATSUNE MIKU: COLORFUL STAGE! Fan Meeting** will take place from 2:00 PM to 3:20 PM PT at the Peacock Theater. This event promises not only a talk show featuring the game’s voice actors but also musical performances and exclusive giveaways. It’s a perfect chance for fans to meet their favorite voices in person, enhancing the personal touch that fans crave.
On July 5, prepare for the **Official Persona5: The Phantom X Panel** at Petree Hall, where developers will share exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the game, alongside a live performance by Lyn Inaizumi. Fans eagerly anticipate this segment, as Lyn will perform hit tracks from the *Persona 5* series, including those that established its iconic soundtrack. This performance marks her first live show in the U.S.—a significant milestone for both Lyn and her fans.
Exclusive Merchandise and Interactive Experiences
The **SEGA/ATLUS Booth** will be a hub of activity throughout Anime Expo, featuring an array of merchandise and unique experiences tailored for every attendee. Running every day of the event, the booth will host exclusive daily merchandise drops, live art demonstrations, and interactive trivia games. Among the many items available, attendees can look forward to AX-themed collectibles, including apparel and accessories that celebrate popular franchises like Persona and Yakuza.
Moreover, on July 5, fans can join the **Like a Dragon/Yakuza Pool Party** at The Figueroa Hotel, an engaging event that will feature DJ performances, food, and opportunities to interact with cosplayers and influencers. This pool party merges the casual atmosphere of a summer gathering with the spirited fandom of the Yakuza series, making it a must-attend event for fans looking to socialize and enjoy the festivities.
Little Akihabara Pop-Up Shop
In addition to the activities during Anime Expo, SEGA/ATLUS is hosting a **Little Akihabara Pop-Up** from June 27 to July 27 at the Little Tokyo Mall in Downtown LA. This month-long event will showcase a broader selection of SEGA/ATLUS merchandise, providing an extended opportunity for fans to explore and purchase exclusive items from their favorite franchises. This pop-up is particularly exciting as it highlights the culmination of the AX experience, allowing fans to continue engaging with the community even after the main event concludes.
Market Response and Community Engagement
Anime Expo has firmly established itself as one of the premier events for anime and gaming culture, and the response from fans regarding SEGA/ATLUS’s lineup is overwhelmingly positive. SEGA’s commitment to engaging fans through live performances and interactive panels demonstrates a keen understanding of the community’s desires for connection and immersive experiences. Events like these not only bolster fan loyalty but also present marketing opportunities that can significantly influence the success of upcoming games and merchandise releases.
The proactive engagement strategy utilized by SEGA/ATLUS aligns with broader industry trends focusing on fan interaction as a vital component of promotional efforts. As gaming continues to evolve, events like Anime Expo will play a crucial role in shaping how companies connect with their audiences. According to a report from [Statista], Anime Expo has seen a steady increase in attendance, with numbers reaching over 100,000 in recent years, highlighting the growing popularity of anime and gaming culture in the U.S.
Ultimately, the Anime Expo 2025 offers a unique chance for fans to celebrate their favorite franchises with unique panels, performances, and interactions with creators. For attendees, this is more than just an event; it is a vibrant community gathering that fosters friendships and shared passions in the world of gaming and anime.