However, a large majority of these were closed in the 2000s, primarily due to a worldwide decline in the amusement arcade industry rendering some centers unprofitable, an ongoing recession in Japan, and cost-cutting measures at Sega in the midst of their restructuring.

[4] One of the most significant uses of the name was for the SegaWorld London and Sega World Sydney indoor theme park venues in the late 90s; these were both short-lived and closed after three years of operations.

Though frequently housed in purpose-built suburban buildings, they have also been developed in other settings, including shopping centers, bowling alleys, department stores, and theme parks.

Particularly in the 90s, many of the centers featured elaborate décor and designs based on the popular Sonic the Hedgehog character, primarily used as a recognisable mascot for family appeal.

Little is currently known about Sega World operations in China - the few venues opened are thought to have closed around the time or before the later Player's Arena and Joypolis indoor theme parks were developed in the country.