ChuChu Rocket is one of those SEGA classics that deserves a proper comeback. Originally released alongside the SEGA Dreamcast, the game later found its way to the Game Boy Advance and eventually to iOS and Android. Unfortunately, those mobile versions were pulled from digital storefronts years ago. Which makes this the perfect moment for something new. Or better yet, a complete ChuChu Rocket collection. Here are seven reasons why SEGA should bring the series back.
Perfect for Handheld and Big Screen Play
ChuChu Rocket started life as a console game on the Dreamcast and immediately proved that puzzle games can work brilliantly on a big screen. At the same time, it also excelled as a portable experience on the Game Boy Advance and later on mobile devices. Not every game translates well between handheld and console play, but ChuChu Rocket absolutely does.
Touchscreen Controls That Actually Work
The iOS and Android versions showed just how well ChuChu Rocket works with touchscreen input. Placing arrows and objects felt natural and responsive, making the gameplay fast and intuitive. With modern hardware like the Nintendo Switch offering both traditional controls and touchscreen functionality, a new version seems like an obvious fit. Personally, touchscreen play would easily be my preferred option.
Multiplayer Mayhem Done Right
Multiplayer might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about ChuChu Rocket, but it really should be. The game turns into a chaotic and highly entertaining party experience when played with two to four players. With four people competing at once, it becomes one of the most fun puzzle-based party games SEGA has ever made. Seeing this mode return on a hugely successful console like the Switch would be an absolute win.
A Pioneer in Online Gaming
On the Dreamcast, ChuChu Rocket made history as one of the first true online multiplayer games. In fact, players who signed up for SEGA’s European online service at the time even received the game for free by mail. Online play allowed for competitive multiplayer matches, but also for sharing custom-made levels with other players. In many ways, it was a precursor to concepts later popularized by games like Super Mario Maker, long before that idea became mainstream.
Whatever Happened to ChuChu Rocket 2?
At one point, there was an Apple Arcade exclusive called ChuChu Rocket Universe. Essentially, it was a new entry in the franchise, featuring updated visuals and gameplay tailored to touch controls. While it wasn’t revolutionary, it was a solid and enjoyable continuation of the series. Sadly, SEGA chose not to release it beyond Apple Arcade, and the game quickly faded into obscurity. A real shame.
Player-Created Levels Add Endless Replay Value
The Game Boy Advance version of ChuChu Rocket introduced an impressive 2,500 player-created puzzle levels. This single feature added dozens of extra hours to what initially looks like a fairly simple game concept. A new release on modern platforms could easily reignite that creative spark, allowing players to submit fresh levels and expand the game’s content almost endlessly.
Room for Something New
A proper ChuChu Rocket collection should include the original game along with the expanded content from the GBA version. ChuChu Rocket Universe would also deserve a spot in such a bundle. But there’s no reason to stop there. A small new entry, an extra expansion, or even a brand-new set of challenges could add real value. SEGA has plenty of options here. Now is the time to take that chance.
Wanna read more about videogames? Click here!