What happens when gaming giants SEGA and ATLUS bring their biggest titles to one of the Philippines’ busiest malls? Pure, electrifying chaos in the best possible way. This year’s SEGA ATLUS Festival 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium didn’t just deliver demos and merch it turned an ordinary Sunday into the place to be for gamers, cosplayers, and even curious mall‑goers alike.
A Sunday Packed to the Brink
We arrived on a sunny Sunday afternoon, expecting a healthy crowd but nothing prepared us for the tidal wave of fans that greeted us. Lines snaked across the atrium, spilling past displays, kiosks, and in a hilarious twist outlength the space of a car exhibit nearby. It wasn’t just gamers. It was families, mall walkers, and even half‑hearted shoppers who suddenly turned into curious spectators. Everywhere you looked, people were craning their necks to catch a glimpse of what was happening. The sheer volume of attendees confirmed one thing: SEGA and ATLUS have devoted followings here.
Giant LED screens dotted throughout the venue ensured that no one missed the action, even if you were five floors up on the mall balcony. Whether you were waiting in line or just strolling by, the vibrant visuals of Sonic, Persona, Yakuza, and Hatsune Miku kept you anchored to the spectacle.
Cosplay: A Festival Highlight
No pop culture event is complete without cosplay, and this one didn’t disappoint. Fans went all‑out, representing beloved characters from SEGA and ATLUS worlds. Among the crowd favorites? Obviously Sonic zipping through the crowd, Hatsune Miku’s colorful flair, and an impressive roster of Persona characters striking poses for photos. These costumes weren’t just for show they sparked conversations, selfies, and even impromptu “cosplay meetups” throughout the day.
The creative energy was infectious, with fans cheering as they passed by their favorite characters, blurring the line between game world and real life.
Blocks of Fans for the Big Games
The hottest booths Yakuza Kiwami 3/Dark Ties and Persona 3 Reload were nothing short of blockbusters. Their lines were so packed that they became event landmarks on their own. Stories from players revealed queues stretching long enough to grab a snack, walk around, and still not reach the start. One attendee sheepishly confessed to waiting over an hour just to play. A testament to how much anticipation there is for these upcoming titles.
The crowd wasn’t just lining up to play; they were on a mission to snag freebies. Each demo had its own exclusive merch incentive, from stickers to themed bags, and fans were proudly flaunting what they earned. This sense of reward‑driven excitement fueled the persistent energy throughout the festival floor.
Room for Improvement — But a Good Problem
But with massive enthusiasm came massive waiting times. While the fan fervor was amazing to witness, the festival organizers might consider quicker participant turnover or even a fast lane for experienced players (or those who purchased or really playing the game already) next time. As one player joked while waiting, “If I’ve already played the game before, can I skip ahead?” With lines lasting well over an hour for some booths, the suggestion was heartfelt and hilarious at the same time.
Star Power and Community Spirit
Adding another layer of buzz was the presence of actress and popular cosplayer Myrtle Sarrosa, who kept the stage moments alive with her hosting energy. Whether she was rallying the crowd or cheering on demo players, Myrtle’s presence lent a sense of local flavor and entertainment beyond the games themselves.
A dedicated fan art section also showcased the creative talents of the community, with posters, illustrations, and unique pieces celebrating everything from Sonic’s blue blur to Persona’s Phantom Thieves. It wasn’t just about playing games it was about celebrating the culture around them.
Merch Heaven
And for those who walked away with more than a demo memory? The merchandise section was a treasure trove. Authentic SEGA and ATLUS items lined the shelves, from apparel to accessories perfect for die‑hard collectors or casual fans who just might have spent a bit more than planned.
The SEGA ATLUS Festival 2025 in Manila was more than just an event it was a celebration of gaming culture at its most vibrant. From the long, passionate lines to the incredible cosplay and community art, it proved that the Philippines isn’t just a market for games, it’s a home for gamers. If there’s one thing we walked away with (besides merch and sore feet), it’s that Manila should absolutely brace for more events like this soon.
