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{{About|the video game series|the first game|Shenmue (video game){{!}}''Shenmue'' (video game)|the anime adaptation|Shenmue: The Animation{{!}}''Shenmue: The Animation''}} |
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{{Short description|Video game series}} |
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{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2016}} |
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2016}} |
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{{Infobox video game series |
{{Infobox video game series |
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| title = Shenmue |
| title = Shenmue |
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| image = Shenmue series logo.png |
| image = Shenmue series logo.png |
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| genre = [[Action-adventure game|Action-adventure]]<br>[[Interactive cinema]]<br>[[Life simulation game|Life simulation]]<br>[[Social simulation game|Social simulation]] |
| genre = [[Action-adventure game|Action-adventure]]<br>[[Interactive cinema]]<br>[[Life simulation game|Life simulation]]<br>[[Social simulation game|Social simulation]] |
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| developer = {{Ubl|[[Sega AM2]]|Ys Net}} |
| developer = {{Ubl|[[Sega AM2]]|Ys Net}} |
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| publisher = {{Ubl|[[Sega]]|[[Microsoft |
| publisher = {{Ubl|[[Sega]]|[[Microsoft Game Studios]]|[[Deep Silver]]}} |
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| creator = [[Yu Suzuki]] |
| creator = [[Yu Suzuki]] |
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| platforms = {{Ubl|[[Dreamcast]]|[[Xbox (console)|Xbox]]|[[Mobile phone]]s|[[Windows]]|[[PlayStation 4]]|[[Xbox One]]}} |
| platforms = {{Ubl|[[Dreamcast]]|[[Xbox (console)|Xbox]]|[[Mobile phone]]s|[[Windows]]|[[PlayStation 4]]|[[Xbox One]]}} |
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| first release version = ''[[Shenmue (video game)|Shenmue]]'' |
| first release version = ''[[Shenmue (video game)|Shenmue]]'' |
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| first release date = December 29, 1999 |
| first release date = December 29, 1999 |
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| latest release version = ''[[Shenmue III]]'' |
| latest release version = ''[[Shenmue III]]'' |
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| latest release date = November 19, 2019 |
| latest release date = November 19, 2019 |
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}} |
}} |
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'''''Shenmue''' |
{{nihongo foot|'''''Shenmue'''''|シェンムー|Shenmū|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} is an [[action-adventure game]] series created, produced and directed by [[Yu Suzuki]]. ''[[Shenmue (video game)|Shenmue]]'' (1999) and ''[[Shenmue II]]'' (2001) were developed by [[Sega AM2]] and published by [[Sega]] for the [[Dreamcast]]. ''[[Shenmue III]],'' developed by Suzuki's company Ys Net, was released for the [[PlayStation 4]] and [[Windows]] in 2019. |
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The ''Shenmue'' games consist of open-world [[3D computer graphics|3D]] environments interspersed with [[Beat 'em up|brawler]] battles and [[quick time events]]. They include elements of [[Role-playing video game|role-playing]], [[Life simulation game|life simulation]] and [[social simulation game]]s, such as a [[Persistent world|day-and-night system]], variable weather effects, [[non-player character]]s with daily schedules |
The ''Shenmue'' games consist of open-world [[3D computer graphics|3D]] environments interspersed with [[Beat 'em up|brawler]] battles and [[quick time events]]. They include elements of [[Role-playing video game|role-playing]], [[Life simulation game|life simulation]] and [[social simulation game]]s, such as a [[Persistent world|day-and-night system]], variable weather effects, [[non-player character]]s with daily schedules and interactive elements, such as vending machines, [[Amusement arcade|arcades]], and [[minigame]]s. The story follows the teenage martial artist Ryo Hazuki as he travels through 1980s Japan and China in pursuit of his father's killer. The original ''Shenmue'' was the [[List of most expensive video games to develop|most expensive video game ever developed]] at the time, with an estimated production and marketing cost of US$47 to $70 million, though some of the development also covered ''Shenmue II''. |
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''Shenmue |
''Shenmue'' and ''Shenmue II'' received mostly positive reviews. Critics praised their graphics, soundtrack, realism and ambition, but criticized their controls, slow pace and voice acting, and the focus on mundane detail divided players. The games attracted a [[cult following]], appearing in several lists of the [[List of video games considered the best|greatest video games of all time]], and are credited for pioneering game systems, including quick time events and open worlds. However, they were commercial failures and further installments entered [[development hell]]. |
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In 2004, Sega announced a spin-off [[massively multiplayer online role-playing game]], ''[[Shenmue Online]]'', but it was not released. In 2010, a [[Social-network game|social game]], ''[[Shenmue City]]'', was launched in Japan; it was shut down a year later. In 2018, Sega released high-definition [[Porting|ports]] of ''Shenmue'' and ''Shenmue II'' for multiple formats. Following a successful [[crowdfunding]] campaign, Suzuki developed ''Shenmue III'' independently |
In 2004, Sega announced a spin-off [[massively multiplayer online role-playing game]], ''[[Shenmue Online]]'', but it was not released. In 2010, a [[Social-network game|social game]], ''[[Shenmue City]]'', was launched in Japan; it was shut down a year later. In 2018, Sega released high-definition [[Porting|ports]] of ''Shenmue'' and ''Shenmue II'' for multiple formats. Following a successful [[crowdfunding]] campaign, Suzuki developed ''Shenmue III'' independently. It was released for the [[PlayStation 4]] and Windows in 2019, and received mixed reviews for its similarity to the earlier games. An [[Shenmue: The Animation|anime adaptation]] of ''Shenmue'', co-produced by [[Crunchyroll]] and [[Adult Swim]], premiered in February 2022. |
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== |
== Gameplay == |
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⚫ | In the ''Shenmue'' games, the player controls the teenage martial arts pupil Ryo Hazuki as he investigates his father's murder. The player explores the Yokosuka, Hong Kong and Guilin [[open world]]s, searching for clues, examining objects and talking to [[non-player characters]] for information. The games feature a 3D fighting system similar to Sega's ''[[Virtua Fighter]]'' series; Ryo can fight multiple opponents at once, and can practice moves to increase their power. In [[quick time events]], the player must press the right combination of buttons at the right moment to succeed.<ref name=":122"/><ref name=":02">{{Cite web|title=Why is everybody so excited? WHAT'S A SHENMUE? |date=June 25, 2015 |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/why-everybody-so-excited-whats-shenmue/ |access-date=June 30, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303191430/http://www.gamesradar.com/why-everybody-so-excited-whats-shenmue/ |archive-date=March 3, 2016 }}</ref> |
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''Shenmue I'' and ''Shenmue II'' feature a level of detail considered unprecedented for games at the time of their release.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|title='90s Making of Shenmue documentary gives glimpse into legendary game |url=http://www.gameskinny.com/1wd3d/90s-making-of-shenmue-documentary-gives-glimpse-into-legendary-game |website=www.gameskinny.com |access-date=November 19, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922234122/http://www.gameskinny.com/1wd3d/90s-making-of-shenmue-documentary-gives-glimpse-into-legendary-game |archive-date=September 22, 2016 }}</ref> Shops open and close, buses run to timetables, and characters have their own routines, each in accordance with the game's persistent clock.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Shenmue once featured cats that walk on two legs |website=[[Eurogamer]] |date=March 19, 2014 |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2014-03-19-shenmue-once-featured-cats-that-walk-on-two-legs |access-date=June 29, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151001191709/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2014-03-19-shenmue-once-featured-cats-that-walk-on-two-legs |archive-date=October 1, 2015 }}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite web|title=Shenmue Review {{!}} Edge Online |website=Edge |url=http://www.edge-online.com/review/shenmue-review/ |date=May 31, 2013 |access-date=July 3, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130531054446/http://www.edge-online.com/review/shenmue-review/ |archive-date=May 31, 2013 }}</ref> Ryo receives a daily allowance which can be spent on objects including food, raffle tickets, audio cassettes and [[Gashapon|capsule toys]]. There are several [[minigames]]; for example, Ryo can throw darts or play complete versions of Sega arcade games, or earn money from [[minigame]]s including driving [[forklift truck]]s, gambling, arm wrestling, fishing and street fighting.<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|title=Shenmue II Review |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/shenmue-ii-review/1900-2829777/ |website=GameSpot |access-date=November 20, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109215416/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/shenmue-ii-review/1900-2829777/ |archive-date=January 9, 2016 }}</ref><ref name=":14">{{Cite web|title=Shenmue II Review – IGN – Page 2 |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/10/29/shenmue-ii-review?page=2 |website=IGN | date=October 29, 2002 |access-date=November 20, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151129171042/http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/10/29/shenmue-ii-review?page=2 |archive-date=November 29, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/uk/best-way-to-make-shenmue-3-money-quick-fast-easy-yuan/|title=Make it rain Yuan with these Shenmue 3 money-making tips|last=Bartlett|first=Liam|date=2019-11-22|website=PC Gamer|language=en-US|access-date=2019-11-30}}</ref> The Dreamcast version of ''Shenmue II'' allows the player to import their save data from ''Shenmue'', carrying over money, inventory items and martial arts moves.<ref name=":14" /> |
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⚫ | ''Shenmue'' was released on December 29, 1999 in Japan,<ref>{{Cite |
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{{Timeline of release years |
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| range1 = 1999 |
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| range1_color = Gold Goldenrod |
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| 2001 = ''[[Shenmue II]]'' |
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| 2010 = ''[[Shenmue City]]'' |
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| 2018 = ''Shenmue I & II'' |
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| 2019 = ''[[Shenmue III]]'' |
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}} |
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⚫ | ''[[IGN]]'' described ''Shenmue'' as a "revenge epic in the tradition of [[Cinema of China|Chinese cinema]]".<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/04/21/ign-presents-the-history-of-sega?page=8|title=IGN Presents the History of SEGA – IGN – Page 8|website=IGN|date=April 21, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106173810/http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/04/21/ign-presents-the-history-of-sega?page=8|archive-date=November 6, 2015|url-status=live|access-date=November 18, 2015}}</ref> According to Suzuki, the three games cover around 40% of the story he has planned.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/yu-suzuki-says-shenmue-iii-will-get-us-40-percent-through-ryos-story|title=Yu Suzuki Says Shenmue 3 Will Get Us 40 Percent Through Ryo's Story|last=Allen|first=Eric Van|date=2019-06-13|website=USgamer|language=en|access-date=2019-08-20}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Suzuki |
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==== ''Shenmue'' ==== |
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⚫ | During Sony's presentation at the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] conference on June 15, 2015, Suzuki announced a [[Kickstarter]] [[crowdfunding]] campaign for '' |
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⚫ | In 1986 [[Yokosuka]], Japan, the teenage martial artist Ryo Hazuki returns to his family [[dojo]] to witness a confrontation between his father Iwao and a Chinese man, Lan Di. Lan Di demands Iwao give him a mysterious stone artifact, the [[Chinese dragon|dragon]] mirror. When he threatens to kill Ryo, Iwao tells him the mirror is buried under the cherry blossom tree outside. As Lan Di's men dig up the mirror, Lan Di mentions Zhao Sunming, whom Iwao allegedly killed in [[Mengcun]], China. Lan Di delivers a finishing blow and Iwao dies in Ryo's arms. |
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⚫ | Sega began developing remasters of ''Shenmue I'' and ''II'' featuring new models, textures and lighting, but it was canceled in 2017. Sega said that "working with original animations and characters but meshing them with enhanced HD visuals gave us a game that we felt would not meet the standards that ''Shenmue'' fans expect and deserve".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Revealed: Sega's cancelled Shenmue HD remake - with fully updated graphics|language=en|work=Eurogamer.net|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2018-segas-cancelled-shenmue-remake|access-date=2018-10-15}}</ref> Instead, in August 2018, Sega released high-definition [[Porting|ports]] for Windows, PlayStation 4 and [[Xbox One]].<ref>{{Cite news|title=Shenmue's HD re-release gets a final date|language=en|work=Eurogamer |
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⚫ | In 2015, Suzuki said he hoped the series would cover four or five games.<ref>{{Cite web| |
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==Gameplay== |
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⚫ | In ''Shenmue |
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''Shenmue I'' and ''II'' feature a level of detail considered unprecedented for games at the time of their release.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|title='90s Making of Shenmue documentary gives glimpse into legendary game |url=http://www.gameskinny.com/1wd3d/90s-making-of-shenmue-documentary-gives-glimpse-into-legendary-game |website=www.gameskinny.com |access-date=November 19, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922234122/http://www.gameskinny.com/1wd3d/90s-making-of-shenmue-documentary-gives-glimpse-into-legendary-game |archive-date=September 22, 2016 }}</ref> Shops open and close, buses run to timetables, and characters have their own routines, each in accordance with the game's persistent clock.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Shenmue once featured cats that walk on two legs |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2014-03-19-shenmue-once-featured-cats-that-walk-on-two-legs |access-date=June 29, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151001191709/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2014-03-19-shenmue-once-featured-cats-that-walk-on-two-legs |archive-date=October 1, 2015 }}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite web|title=Shenmue Review {{!}} Edge Online |url=http://www.edge-online.com/review/shenmue-review/ |date=May 31, 2013 |access-date=July 3, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130531054446/http://www.edge-online.com/review/shenmue-review/ |archive-date=May 31, 2013 }}</ref> Ryo receives a daily allowance which can be spent on objects including food, raffle tickets, audio cassettes and [[Gashapon|capsule toys]]. There are several [[minigames]]; for example, Ryo can throw darts or play complete versions of Sega arcade games. He can earn money from [[minigame]]s including driving [[forklift truck]]s, gambling, arm wrestling, fishing, and street fighting.<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|title=Shenmue II Review |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/shenmue-ii-review/1900-2829777/ |website=GameSpot |access-date=November 20, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109215416/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/shenmue-ii-review/1900-2829777/ |archive-date=January 9, 2016 }}</ref><ref name=":14">{{Cite web|title=Shenmue II Review – IGN – Page 2 |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/10/29/shenmue-ii-review?page=2 |website=IGN |access-date=November 20, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151129171042/http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/10/29/shenmue-ii-review?page=2 |archive-date=November 29, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/uk/best-way-to-make-shenmue-3-money-quick-fast-easy-yuan/|title=Make it rain Yuan with these Shenmue 3 money-making tips|last=Bartlett|first=Liam|date=2019-11-22|website=PC Gamer|language=en-US|access-date=2019-11-30}}</ref> The Dreamcast version of ''Shenmue II'' allow the player to import their save data from ''Shenmue'', carrying over money, inventory items and martial arts moves.<ref name=":14" /> |
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⚫ | ''[[IGN]]'' described ''Shenmue'' as a "revenge epic in the tradition of [[Cinema of China|Chinese cinema]]".<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/04/21/ign-presents-the-history-of-sega?page=8|title=IGN Presents the History of SEGA – IGN – Page 8|website=IGN|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106173810/http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/04/21/ign-presents-the-history-of-sega?page=8|archive-date=November 6, 2015|url-status=live|access-date=November 18, 2015}}</ref> According to Suzuki, the three games cover around 40% of the story he has planned.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/yu-suzuki-says-shenmue-iii-will-get-us-40-percent-through-ryos-story|title=Yu Suzuki Says Shenmue 3 Will Get Us 40 Percent Through Ryo's Story|last=Allen|first=Eric Van|date=2019-06-13|website=USgamer|language=en|access-date=2019-08-20}}</ref> |
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⚫ | |||
⚫ | |||
⚫ | In 1986 [[Yokosuka]], Japan, teenage martial artist Ryo Hazuki returns to his family [[dojo]] to witness a confrontation between his father Iwao and a Chinese man, Lan Di. Lan Di demands Iwao give him a mysterious stone artifact, the [[Chinese dragon|dragon]] mirror. When he threatens to kill Ryo, Iwao tells him the mirror is buried under the |
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Ryo's investigation leads him to Master Chen in the Yokosuka harbor. Through Chen and his son Guizhang, Ryo learns that the dragon mirror taken by Lan Di is one of two mirrors. He locates the second, the [[Fenghuang|phoenix]] mirror, in a basement hidden beneath his father's dojo. He defeats a local gang connected to Lan Di's organization, and Master Chen tells him to seek the aid of Master Xiuying in Hong Kong. Ryo boards a boat to China. |
Ryo's investigation leads him to Master Chen in the Yokosuka harbor. Through Chen and his son Guizhang, Ryo learns that the dragon mirror taken by Lan Di is one of two mirrors. He locates the second, the [[Fenghuang|phoenix]] mirror, in a basement hidden beneath his father's dojo. He defeats a local gang connected to Lan Di's organization, and Master Chen tells him to seek the aid of Master Xiuying in Hong Kong. Ryo boards a boat to China. |
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=== ''Shenmue II'' === |
==== ''Shenmue II'' ==== |
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{{Main|Shenmue II}} |
{{Main|Shenmue II#Plot}} |
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[[File:Shenmue 2-main-charechters.jpg|thumb|Ryo (center), Ren (left) and Joy (right) in a scene from ''Shenmue II'']] |
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In Hong Kong, Ryo finds Master Xiuying Hong, but she refuses to help him, considering his quest for vengeance reckless. Ryo teams up with a gang leader, Wuying Ren, a free-spirited motorcyclist, Joy, and a street boy, Wong, to find Yuanda Zhu, who sent Ryo's father a letter warning him of Lan Di's intentions. |
In Hong Kong, Ryo finds Master Xiuying Hong, but she refuses to help him, considering his quest for vengeance reckless. Ryo teams up with a gang leader, Wuying Ren, a free-spirited motorcyclist, Joy, and a street boy, Wong, to find Yuanda Zhu, who sent Ryo's father a letter warning him of Lan Di's intentions. |
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In Guilin, Ryo meets a teenage girl, Shenhua Ling, whose family is connected to the legacy of the dragon and phoenix mirrors. She leads Ryo to a stone quarry on the village outskirts to meet her father, but discovers he is missing. |
In Guilin, Ryo meets a teenage girl, Shenhua Ling, whose family is connected to the legacy of the dragon and phoenix mirrors. She leads Ryo to a stone quarry on the village outskirts to meet her father, but discovers he is missing. |
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=== ''Shenmue III'' === |
==== ''Shenmue III'' ==== |
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{{Main|Shenmue III#Plot}} |
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⚫ | Ryo learns that Lan Di's father, Zhao Sunming, once visited Bailu with Ryo's father to train under the local grandmaster. Zhao died under mysterious circumstances several years later. Ryo also discovers that the phoenix and dragon mirrors were created by Shenhua's great-grandfather at the request of the Chinese emperor. |
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Ryo and Shenhua learn that Shenhua's father, Yuan, has been kidnapped by a local gang looking for the phoenix mirror. Ryo defeats two of the thugs, but is defeated by their boss, Yanlang. He convinces Sun, a local martial arts master, to teach him a powerful [[Bajiquan]] move, and uses it to defeat Yanlang. A village elder helps them discover a map to the treasure connected to the mirrors. Ryo fends off an attack from Chai, who reveals that Yuan and Xu have been taken to the city of Niaowu. |
Ryo and Shenhua learn that Shenhua's father, Yuan, has been kidnapped by a local gang looking for the phoenix mirror. Ryo defeats two of the thugs, but is defeated by their boss, Yanlang. He convinces Sun, a local martial arts master, to teach him a powerful [[Bajiquan]] move, and uses it to defeat Yanlang. A village elder helps them discover a map to the treasure connected to the mirrors. Ryo fends off an attack from Chai, who reveals that Yuan and Xu have been taken to the city of Niaowu. |
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In Niaowu, Ryo and Shenhua learn that a local gang, the Red Snakes, is holding Yuan and Xu hostage. Shenhua is tricked by a Chi You Men leader, Niao Sun. Ryo and his allies infiltrate the Chi You Men's castle and rescue Shenhua and her father. Ryo confronts Lan Di, but Lan Di easily defeats him. Niao Sun betrays Lan Di, and has her men burn the castle. Ryo, Ren and Shenhua continue their journey along the [[Great Wall of China]]. |
In Niaowu, Ryo and Shenhua learn that a local gang, the Red Snakes, is holding Yuan and Xu hostage. Shenhua is tricked by a Chi You Men leader, Niao Sun. Ryo and his allies infiltrate the Chi You Men's castle and rescue Shenhua and her father. Ryo confronts Lan Di, but Lan Di easily defeats him. Niao Sun betrays Lan Di, and has her men burn the castle. Ryo, Ren and Shenhua continue their journey along the [[Great Wall of China]]. |
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==Development== |
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[[File:Yu Suzuki - Game Developers Conference 2011 - Day 3 (2).jpg|thumb|The ''Shenmue'' series was created by [[Yu Suzuki]].]]{{See also|Shenmue (video game)#Development}} |
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=== ''Shenmue'' and ''Shenmue II'' === |
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{{Main articles|Shenmue (video game)|Shenmue II}} |
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⚫ | The creator of ''Shenmue'', [[Yu Suzuki]], joined Sega in 1983 and created several successful [[arcade game]]s, including ''[[Hang-On]]'' (1985)'', [[Out Run]]'' (1986) and ''[[Virtua Fighter (video game)|Virtua Fighter]]'' (1993).<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=Creator Yu Suzuki shares the story of Shenmue's development |url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/3/19/5527120/yu-suzuki-shenmue-gdc-2014-classic-game-postmortem |website=Polygon |date=March 19, 2014 |access-date=June 29, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150628071042/http://www.polygon.com/2014/3/19/5527120/yu-suzuki-shenmue-gdc-2014-classic-game-postmortem |archive-date=June 28, 2015 }}</ref> In comparison to arcade games, where the ideal experience was only a few minutes long, Suzuki wanted to make a longer experience.<ref name=":0" /> In 1996, he and [[Sega AM2]] began developing a [[Sega Saturn|Saturn]] RPG based on the ''[[Virtua Fighter]]'' series.<ref name=":0" /> |
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In 1997, development moved to Sega's upcoming console, the [[Dreamcast]],<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|title = Shenmue, the History – IGN| date=July 14, 1999 |url = http://uk.ign.com/articles/1999/07/14/shenmue-the-history|access-date = July 3, 2015}}</ref> and the ''Virtua Fighter'' connection was dropped.<ref name=":7" /> By the time of the Dreamcast's release in Japan in November 1998, the game had been titled ''Shenmue''.<ref name=":0" /> Sega advertised ''Shenmue'' as belonging to a new genre it termed "full reactive eyes entertainment" or "FREE".<ref name="TheHistory">{{cite web|date=July 13, 1999|title=Shenmue, the History|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/14/shenmue-the-history|access-date=June 8, 2020}}</ref> It became the [[List of most expensive video games to develop|most expensive game ever developed]] at the time, reported to have cost US$70 million; in 2011, Suzuki said the figure was closer to $47 million including marketing.<ref name=":122">{{Cite news|title=Shenmue – discovering the Sega classic 14 years too late |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/02/shenmue-sega-classic-14-years-too-late |website=the Guardian |access-date=June 30, 2015 |first=Mike |last=Diver |date=May 2, 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626163813/http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/02/shenmue-sega-classic-14-years-too-late |archive-date=June 26, 2015 }}</ref> The development also covered some of ''Shenmue II'' (2001), which was completed for a smaller figure,<ref name="IGN History of Dreamcast2">{{cite web |last=Fahs |first=Travis |date=September 9, 2010 |title=''IGN'' presents the history of Dreamcast |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/09/10/ign-presents-the-history-of-dreamcast?page=4 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140928010101/http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/09/10/ign%2Dpresents%2Dthe%2Dhistory%2Dof%2Ddreamcast?page%3D4 |archive-date=September 28, 2014 |access-date=November 11, 2017 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=}}</ref> and possibly groundwork for future ''Shenmue'' games.<ref name="Ages">{{Cite web |last=Kolan |first=Patrick |date=14 May 2012 |title=''Shenmue'': through the ages |url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2007/08/08/shenmue-through-the-ages |access-date=June 30, 2015 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref> |
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⚫ | ''Shenmue'' was released on December 29, 1999 in Japan,<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=シェンムー |
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=== ''Shenmue Online'' and ''Shenmue City'' === |
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⚫ | Suzuki worked on various projects which failed to see release,<ref name=":63">{{Cite news|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/6414/yu_suzuki_at_a_time_of_transition.php |title=Yu Suzuki At A Time Of Transition |access-date=2016-11-24 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104161757/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/6414/yu_suzuki_at_a_time_of_transition.php |archive-date=November 4, 2016 }}</ref> including ''[[Shenmue Online]]'', a PC [[massively multiplayer online role-playing game|MMORPG]] announced in 2004.<ref name=":1">{{cite web |last=Smith |first=David |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3133808 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718064622/http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3133808 |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 18, 2012 |title=Shenmue Online Officially Announced |publisher=1UP.com |date=August 3, 2004 }}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/shenmue-online-canceled-who-will-move-all-of-these-online-crates-now--37565.phtml |title=Shenmue Online canceled: Who will move all of these online crates now? |publisher=Destructoid |date=August 4, 2007 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160102161135/http://www.destructoid.com/shenmue-online-canceled-who-will-move-all-of-these-online-crates-now--37565.phtml |archive-date=January 2, 2016 }}</ref><ref name=":3">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2007/08/rumor-shenmue-g/ |title=Rumor:Shenmue Gone for Good |magazine=Wired |first=Susan |last=Arendt |date=August 7, 2007 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104150758/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2007/08/rumor-shenmue-g/ |archive-date=November 4, 2012 }}</ref> He established his own development company, Ys Net, in 2008<ref name=":63" /> and left Sega in 2011.<ref name=":63" /> In 2010, Sega announced ''[[Shenmue City]]'', a [[Social-network game|social game]] for the [[Mobage]] service.<ref name=":422">{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/10/07/new_shenmue/|title=Shenmue Goes Social on Yahoo's New PC Service|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=October 7, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717231900/http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/10/07/new_shenmue/|archive-date=July 17, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was not released outside Japan and was shut down in December 2011.<ref>{{Cite news |last=North |first=Dale |date=3 January 2012 |title=''Shenmue City'' shut down |work=[[Destructoid]] |url=https://www.destructoid.com/shenmue-city-shut-down-218912.phtml |access-date=27 January 2018}}</ref> |
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=== ''Shenmue III'' and remasters === |
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{{Main|Shenmue III}} |
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⚫ | During Sony's presentation at the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] conference on June 15, 2015, Suzuki announced a [[Kickstarter]] [[crowdfunding]] campaign for ''Shenmue III,'' having licensed the series from Sega. ''Shenmue III'' became the fastest-funded and the highest-funded video game project in Kickstarter history, reaching its initial $2 million goal in just over nine hours,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/shenmue-3-just-hit-2-million-setting-a-new-kickstarte-1711615103|title=Shenmue 3 Just Hit $2 Million, Setting a New Kickstarter Record|date=June 16, 2015 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304044551/http://kotaku.com/shenmue-3-just-hit-2-million-setting-a-new-kickstarte-1711615103|archive-date=March 4, 2016|access-date=2016-02-27}}</ref> and earning $6.3 million in total.<ref>{{cite web |last=Luke |first=Reilly |date=1 May 2017 |title=''Shenmue III'' Kickstarter closes with over $6.3 million |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/07/20/shenmue-3-kickstarter-closes-with-over-63-million |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817103837/http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/07/20/shenmue-3-kickstarter-closes-with-over-63-million |archive-date=August 17, 2016 |access-date=2016-07-30 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref> It was released on 19 November 2019 for [[PlayStation 4]] and [[Windows]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Phillips |first=Tom |date=2019-06-03 |title=''Shenmue III'' delayed to November |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-06-03-shenmue-3-delayed-to-november |access-date=2019-06-03 |website=[[Eurogamer]] |language=en}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Sega began developing remasters of ''Shenmue I'' and ''II'' featuring new models, textures and lighting, but it was canceled in 2017. Sega said that "working with original animations and characters but meshing them with enhanced HD visuals gave us a game that we felt would not meet the standards that ''Shenmue'' fans expect and deserve".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Revealed: Sega's cancelled Shenmue HD remake - with fully updated graphics|language=en|work=Eurogamer.net|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2018-segas-cancelled-shenmue-remake|access-date=2018-10-15}}</ref> Instead, in August 2018, Sega released high-definition [[Porting|ports]] for Windows, PlayStation 4 and [[Xbox One]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Martin |date=3 July 2018 |title=''Shenmue'''s HD re-release gets a final date |language=en |work=[[Eurogamer]] |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-07-03-shenmues-hd-re-release-gets-a-final-date |access-date=2018-07-05}}</ref> The ports include new graphics and control options, improved user interfaces, and Japanese and English voices.<ref name=":0232">{{Cite web|last=Knezevic|first=Kevin|date=2018-04-13|title=Shenmue 1 & 2 Coming To PS4, Xbox One, And PC This Year|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/shenmue-1-and-2-coming-to-ps4-xbox-one-and-pc-this/1100-6458239/|access-date=2018-04-14|website=GameSpot|language=en-US}}</ref> Some details, such as [[product placement]], are omitted, and cutscenes are presented in their original [[Aspect ratio (image)|aspect ratio]] due to technical limitations.<ref name="Linneman">{{cite web |last=Linneman |first=John |date=21 August 2018 |title=''Shenmue'''s HD remasters analysed: enhancements are sparse but the ports are solid gold |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2018-shenmue-hd-remasters-tech-analysis |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180821171319/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2018-shenmue-hd-remasters-tech-analysis |archive-date=August 21, 2018 |access-date=22 August 2018 |work=[[Eurogamer]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref> |
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=== Later projects === |
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⚫ | In 2015, Suzuki said he hoped the series would cover four or five games.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Good |first=Owen S. |date=2015-06-20 |title=''Shenmue'' creator: story has 11 chapters, ideally '4 or 5 games' in the series |url=https://www.polygon.com/2015/6/20/8818097/shenmue-3-story-11-chapters-kickstarter-yu-suzuki |access-date=2019-11-20 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |language=en}}</ref> ''Shenmue III'' includes a letter to fans from Suzuki expressing his hope to develop ''Shenmue IV''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/yu-suzuki-pledges-to-try-to-make-shenmue-4-via-in-game-letter-to-fans/|title=Yu Suzuki pledges to try to make Shenmue 4 via in-game letter to fans|date=2019-11-20|website=VGC|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-11-20}}</ref> In 2020, Suzuki told ''[[IGN]]'' he had created ''Shenmue III'' "for the fans", and that he planned to give ''Shenmue IV'' more mainstream appeal.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=2020-05-04 |title=Yu Suzuki believes ''Shenmue IV'' will happen and wants it to appeal to a broader audience |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/shenmue-4-broader-audience/ |access-date=2020-09-05 |website=[[Video Games Chronicle]] |language=en-GB}}</ref> |
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⚫ | |||
{{Video game series reviews |
{{Video game series reviews |
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| game1 = [[Shenmue (video game)|Shenmue]] |
| game1 = [[Shenmue (video game)|Shenmue]] |
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| mc1 = (DC) 89%<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/198621-shenmue/index.html |publisher=[[GameRankings]] |title=''Shenmue'' Reviews |access-date=July 18, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080118192213/http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/198621.asp?q=shenmue |archive-date=January 18, 2008 }}</ref>{{efn|name=GRs|[[GameRankings]] score}} |
| mc1 = (DC) 89%<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/198621-shenmue/index.html |publisher=[[GameRankings]] |title=''Shenmue'' Reviews |access-date=July 18, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080118192213/http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/198621.asp?q=shenmue |archive-date=January 18, 2008 }}</ref>{{efn|name=GRs|[[GameRankings]] score}} |
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| game2 = [[Shenmue II]] |
| game2 = [[Shenmue II]] |
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| mc2 = (DC) 88/100<ref>{{cite web|url= |
| mc2 = (DC) 88/100<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/shenmue-ii/critic-reviews/?platform=dreamcast |title=''Shenmue II'' Reviews |publisher=[[Metacritic]] |access-date=July 18, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150901065600/http://www.metacritic.com/game/dreamcast/shenmue-ii |archive-date=September 1, 2015 }}</ref><br>(Xbox) 80/100<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/shenmue-ii/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox |title=''Shenmue II'' Reviews |publisher=[[Metacritic]] |access-date=July 18, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150619015942/http://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox/shenmue-ii |archive-date=June 19, 2015 }}</ref> |
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| game3 = [[Shenmue III]] |
| game3 = [[Shenmue III]] |
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| mc3 = (PC) 69/100<ref>{{cite web|url= |
| mc3 = (PC) 69/100<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/shenmue-iii/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=''Shenmue III'' Reviews |publisher=[[Metacritic]] |access-date=July 18, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316070222/http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/shenmue-iii |archive-date=March 16, 2016 }}</ref><br />(PS4) 67/100<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/shenmue-iii/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4 |title=''Shenmue III'' Reviews |publisher=[[Metacritic]] |access-date=July 18, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150729011225/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-4/shenmue-iii |archive-date=July 29, 2015 }}</ref> |
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}} |
}} |
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The ''Shenmue'' series has received mostly positive reviews and has attracted a [[cult following]], with ''Shenmue I'' and ''II'' appearing in several "[[List of video games considered the best|greatest video games of all time]]" lists.<ref name="empireonline.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.empireonline.com/features/100greatestgames/game.asp?title=7 |title=7. Shenmue – The 100 Greatest Video Games Of All Time – Empire Online |work=empireonline.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819084526/http://www.empireonline.com/features/100greatestgames/game.asp?title=7 |archive-date=August 19, 2014 }}</ref><ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|url=http://www.empireonline.com/100greatestgames/default.asp?p=42 |title=The 100 Greatest Games Of All Time- Shenmue - Empire - www.empireonline.com |work=empireonline.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141008235346/http://www.empireonline.com/100greatestgames/default.asp?p=42 |archive-date=October 8, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/20-greatest-video-games-of-all-time#image=13 |title=Tech news and gadget reviews – MSN News UK |work=msn.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319031829/http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/20-greatest-video-games-of-all-time#image=13 |archive-date=March 19, 2014 |access-date=March 18, 2014 }}</ref> ''Shenmue III'', released almost two decades later, received mixed reviews for its similarity to earlier games |
The ''Shenmue'' series has received mostly positive reviews and has attracted a [[cult following]], with ''Shenmue I'' and ''II'' appearing in several "[[List of video games considered the best|greatest video games of all time]]" lists.<ref name="empireonline.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.empireonline.com/features/100greatestgames/game.asp?title=7 |title=7. Shenmue – The 100 Greatest Video Games Of All Time – Empire Online |work=empireonline.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819084526/http://www.empireonline.com/features/100greatestgames/game.asp?title=7 |archive-date=August 19, 2014 }}</ref><ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|url=http://www.empireonline.com/100greatestgames/default.asp?p=42 |title=The 100 Greatest Games Of All Time- Shenmue - Empire - www.empireonline.com |work=empireonline.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141008235346/http://www.empireonline.com/100greatestgames/default.asp?p=42 |archive-date=October 8, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/20-greatest-video-games-of-all-time#image=13 |title=Tech news and gadget reviews – MSN News UK |work=msn.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319031829/http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/20-greatest-video-games-of-all-time#image=13 |archive-date=March 19, 2014 |access-date=March 18, 2014 }}</ref> ''Shenmue III'', released almost two decades later, received mixed reviews for its similarity to the earlier games. Some critics described it as outdated, while others praised its faithfulness to the franchise.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Handrahan|first=Matthew|date=25 November 2019|title=Shenmue III: Critical Consensus|url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2019-11-25-shenmue-iii-critical-consensus|access-date=2019-12-02|website=GamesIndustry.biz|language=en}}</ref> The series has received praise for its graphics, soundtrack, realism and ambition, but criticism for its controls, slow pace and voice acting; its realism and focus on mundane detail has divided players.<ref name=":4">{{cite web|date=March 5, 2014|title=Retrospective: Shenmue {{!}} Features {{!}} Edge Online|website=Edge |url=http://www.edge-online.com/features/retrospective-shenmue|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129195144/http://www.edge-online.com/features/retrospective-shenmue/|archive-date=November 29, 2014|access-date=July 1, 2015}}</ref><ref name=":34">{{cite web|last=Diver|first=Mike|date=May 2, 2014|title=Shenmue – discovering the Sega classic 14 years too late|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/02/shenmue-sega-classic-14-years-too-late|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626163813/http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/02/shenmue-sega-classic-14-years-too-late|archive-date=June 26, 2015|access-date=July 1, 2015|website=the Guardian}}</ref> |
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⚫ | ''Shenmue'' is credited for pioneering several game technologies. Its large environments, wealth of options and level of detail have been compared to later [[Open world|open-world]] games including the ''[[Grand Theft Auto]]'' series, the ''[[Yakuza (series)|Yakuza]]'' series, ''[[Fallout 3]]'' (2008), and ''[[Deadly Premonition]]'' (2010).<ref name="Escapist">Brendan Main, [http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/issues/issue_285/8455-Lost-in-Yokosuka Lost in Yokosuka] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022094537/http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/issues/issue_285/8455-Lost-in-Yokosuka |date=October 22, 2013 }}, ''[[The Escapist (magazine)|The Escapist]]''</ref><ref name="GTM">[http://www.nowgamer.com/features/1148/interview-with-shenmue-creator-yu-suzuki Shenmue: Creator Yu Suzuki Speaks Out] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110102193343/http://www.nowgamer.com/features/1148/interview-with-shenmue-creator-yu-suzuki |date=January 2, 2011 }}, ''[[GamesTM]]''</ref><ref name="IGN">[http://uk.games.ign.com/top-100-game-creators/9.html Yu Suzuki] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113174620/http://uk.games.ign.com/top-100-game-creators/9.html |date=November 13, 2013 }}, [[IGN]]</ref><ref name="1UP">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=3&cId=3182648 |title=The Disappearance of Yu Suzuki: Part 1 |work=1Up.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20121206045152/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=3&cId=3182648 |archive-date=December 6, 2012 }}</ref> ''Shenmue'' is also credited for naming and popularizing the [[quick time event]] in modern games,<ref name=":42">{{cite web|url=http://www.edge-online.com/features/retrospective-shenmue |title=Retrospective: Shenmue {{!}} Features {{!}} Edge Online |website=Edge |date=March 5, 2014 |access-date=July 1, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129195144/http://www.edge-online.com/features/retrospective-shenmue/ |archive-date=November 29, 2014 }}</ref><ref name=":33">{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/02/shenmue-sega-classic-14-years-too-late |title=Shenmue – discovering the Sega classic 14 years too late |last=Diver |first=Mike |website=the Guardian |date=May 2, 2014 |access-date=July 1, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626163813/http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/02/shenmue-sega-classic-14-years-too-late |archive-date=June 26, 2015 }}</ref> which was featured in the ''[[Resident Evil 4|Resident Evil]]'', ''[[God of War (franchise)|God of War]]'', and ''[[Tomb Raider]]'' series.<ref>Adam LaMosca, [http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/columns/waypoints/1310-On-Screen-Help-In-Game-Hindrance On-Screen Help, In-Game Hindrance] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201191746/http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/columns/waypoints/1310-On-Screen-Help-In-Game-Hindrance |date=February 1, 2014 }}, ''[[The Escapist (magazine)|The Escapist]]''</ref> |
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⚫ | ''Shenmue'' is credited for pioneering several game technologies |
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⚫ | Several ''Shenmue'' soundtracks have been released. A promotional album, ''Shenmue Juke Box,'' was packaged with the limited edition of the original game in Japan and North America, containing ten select tracks from the in-game cassette tapes.<ref>{{cite web|title=Shenmue Juke Box |url=http://vgmdb.net/album/599 |website=VGMDB |publisher=The Video Game Music Database |access-date=May 30, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150530055429/http://vgmdb.net/album/599 |archive-date=May 30, 2015 }}</ref> |
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⚫ | A soundtrack for the first game, ''[[Shenmue OST: Chapter 1: Yokosuka]],'' was released in 2000.<ref>{{cite web|title=Shenmue chapter 1 -Yokosuka- Original Sound Track |url=http://vgmdb.net/album/595 |website=VGMDB |publisher=The Video Game Music Database |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150530051714/http://vgmdb.net/album/595 |archive-date=May 30, 2015 }}</ref> In September 2015, Data Discs released the ''Shenmue'' soundtrack on vinyl in three separate colored editions.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Summers |first1=Nick |title='Shenmue' and 'Streets of Rage' tunes are headed to vinyl |url=https://www.engadget.com/2015/05/22/shenmue-streets-rage-vinyl/ |website=Engadget |date=May 22, 2015 |access-date=May 30, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150530053508/http://www.engadget.com/2015/05/22/shenmue-streets-rage-vinyl/ |archive-date=May 30, 2015 }}</ref> In March 2016, the music of ''Shenmue'' was voted into the [[Classic FM Hall of Fame]] in 144th place.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://halloffame.classicfm.com/2016/chart/p/list-all|title=Vote for the best music in the world in the Classic FM Hall of Fame|last=Radio|first=Global|website=Vote for the best music in the world in the Classic FM Hall of Fame|language=en|access-date=2018-04-14}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Several soundtracks have been released. A promotional album, ''Shenmue Juke Box,'' was packaged with the limited edition of the original game in Japan and North America, containing ten select tracks from the in-game cassette tapes.<ref>{{cite web|title=Shenmue Juke Box |url=http://vgmdb.net/album/599 |website=VGMDB |publisher=The Video Game Music Database |access-date=May 30, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150530055429/http://vgmdb.net/album/599 |archive-date=May 30, 2015 }}</ref> |
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== Television series == |
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⚫ | A soundtrack for the first game, ''[[Shenmue OST: Chapter 1: Yokosuka]],'' was released in 2000.<ref>{{cite web|title=Shenmue chapter 1 -Yokosuka- Original Sound Track |url=http://vgmdb.net/album/595 |website=VGMDB |publisher=The Video Game Music Database |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150530051714/http://vgmdb.net/album/595 |archive-date=May 30, 2015 }}</ref> In September 2015, Data Discs released the ''Shenmue'' soundtrack on vinyl in three separate colored editions.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Summers |first1=Nick |title='Shenmue' and 'Streets of Rage' tunes are headed to vinyl |url=https://www.engadget.com/2015/05/22/shenmue-streets-rage-vinyl/ |website=Engadget | |
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{{Main|Shenmue: The Animation}} |
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⚫ | An [[anime]] adaptation of ''Shenmue'' was announced on September 4, 2020, at the virtual [[Crunchyroll Expo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/shenmue-anime-adult-swim-crunchyroll|title=Shenmue Anime Announced for Crunchyroll and Adult Swim|publisher=[[IGN]]|access-date=September 4, 2020}}</ref> It premiered on simultaneously on February 6, 2022, on the U.S. network [[Adult Swim]]'s [[Toonami]] programming block and the streaming platform Crunchyroll in English dub and Japanese sub, respectively.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|last=Diaz|first=Ana|date=2022-01-19|title=Shenmue gets new anime on Crunchyroll and Adult Swim|url=https://www.polygon.com/22889939/shenmue-anime-crunchyroll-adult-swim|access-date=2022-02-06|website=Polygon|language=en-US}}</ref> The series is directed by Sakurai Chikara, with Suzuki as executive producer, and adapts the events of the first two games. It was animated by [[TMS Entertainment#Telecom Animation Film|Telecom Animation Film]], with production management by Sola Entertainment.<ref name=":8" /> |
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⚫ | Ryo Hazuki is a playable character in Sega's mascot racer ''[[Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing]]''. Ryo rides Naoyuki's motorbike and his special move features him driving a forklift, referencing his job at the Yokosuka Harbor.<ref>{{cite web|author=Mike Fahey|title=Sega All-Stars Racing Gets A Little Shenmue|date=October 7, 2009 |url=http://kotaku.com/5376255/sega-all+stars-racing-gets-a-little-shenmue|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013185257/http://kotaku.com/5376255/sega-all%20stars-racing-gets-a-little-shenmue|archive-date=October 13, 2013|publisher=Kotaku}}</ref> A second version of Ryo that only rides the forklift was released as downloadable content.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.sega.com/sonic/2010/02/01/wouldnt-it-be-great-if-you-could-use-ryos-forklift-normally-in-asr/ |title=Sonic City Blognik | Wouldn't It Be Great If You Could Use Ryo's Forklift Normally In ASR? |publisher=Blogs.sega.com |access-date=April 18, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606103646/http://blogs.sega.com/sonic/2010/02/01/wouldnt-it-be-great-if-you-could-use-ryos-forklift-normally-in-asr/ |archive-date=June 6, 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.sega.com/europe/2010/04/01/forklift-ryo-out-today-on-xbl-and-psn/ |title=SEGA Europe Blog | Forklift Ryo Out Today On XBL and PSN |publisher=Blogs.sega.com |access-date=April 18, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110524115358/http://blogs.sega.com/europe/2010/04/01/forklift-ryo-out-today-on-xbl-and-psn/ |archive-date=May 24, 2011 }}</ref> |
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⚫ | An [[anime]] adaptation of ''Shenmue'' was announced on September 4, 2020, at the virtual [[Crunchyroll Expo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/shenmue-anime-adult-swim-crunchyroll|title=Shenmue Anime Announced for Crunchyroll and Adult Swim|publisher=[[IGN]]|access-date=September 4, 2020}}</ref> It premiered on February 6, 2022, on the |
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In 2012, Steve Lycett, executive producer of Sumo Digital, encouraged a fan-made poll on the Sega forums to determine which three Sega characters the fans would like to see in ''[[Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed]]'' as [[downloadable content]] (DLC). Out of the 28 Sega characters chosen by the forum, Ryo Hazuki had the majority vote ranking 1st, while [[Hatsune Miku]] ranked 2nd, and [[Segata Sanshiro]] ranked 3rd.<ref>{{cite web|date=November 17, 2012|title=S0L's Challenge: The Campaign for SEGA characters to become DLC|url=http://forums.sega.com/showthread.php?427121-S0L-s-Challenge-The-Campaign-for-SEGA-characters-to-become-DLC|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140213233700/http://forums.sega.com/showthread.php?427121-S0L-s-Challenge-The-Campaign-for-SEGA-characters-to-become-DLC|archive-date=February 13, 2014|access-date=May 2, 2014|publisher=Forums.sega.com}}</ref> On January 1, 2014, SEGA announced that Ryo will appear in the iOS and Android versions of ''Sonic & All Stars Racing Transformed'' which was released on January 2.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Chris|date=January 1, 2014|title=Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed hits iOS, Android on Jan. 2|url=http://www.seganerds.com/2014/01/01/sonic-all-stars-racing-transformed-hits-ios-android-on-jan-2/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140102191630/http://www.seganerds.com/2014/01/01/sonic-all-stars-racing-transformed-hits-ios-android-on-jan-2/|archive-date=January 2, 2014|access-date=May 2, 2014|publisher=SEGA Nerds}}</ref> On January 14, Ryo became available for purchase as DLC on [[Steam (service)|Steam]] for the PC version of ''Sonic and All Stars Racing Transformed''. In this game, Ryo rides an arcade-themed vehicle that switches between ''[[OutRun]]'', ''[[Hang-On]]'', and ''[[Space Harrier]]'' arcade cabinets depending on its form.<ref>{{cite web|date=January 14, 2014|title=Sonic and All-Stars Racing Transformed: Ryo Hazuki on Steam|url=http://store.steampowered.com/app/271030/?snr=1_4_4__103|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140428233936/http://store.steampowered.com/app/271030/?snr=1_4_4__103|archive-date=April 28, 2014|access-date=May 2, 2014|publisher=Store.steampowered.com}}</ref> |
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⚫ | |||
⚫ | Ryo Hazuki is a playable character in Sega's mascot racer ''[[Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing]]''. Ryo rides Naoyuki's motorbike and his special move features him driving a forklift, referencing his job at the Yokosuka Harbor.<ref>{{cite web|author=Mike Fahey|title=Sega All-Stars Racing Gets A Little Shenmue|url=http://kotaku.com/5376255/sega-all+stars-racing-gets-a-little-shenmue|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013185257/http://kotaku.com/5376255/sega-all%20stars-racing-gets-a-little-shenmue|archive-date=October 13, 2013|publisher=Kotaku}}</ref> A second version of Ryo that only rides the forklift was released as downloadable content.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.sega.com/sonic/2010/02/01/wouldnt-it-be-great-if-you-could-use-ryos-forklift-normally-in-asr/ |title=Sonic City Blognik | Wouldn't It Be Great If You Could Use Ryo's Forklift Normally In ASR? |publisher=Blogs.sega.com |access-date=April 18, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606103646/http://blogs.sega.com/sonic/2010/02/01/wouldnt-it-be-great-if-you-could-use-ryos-forklift-normally-in-asr/ |archive-date=June 6, 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.sega.com/europe/2010/04/01/forklift-ryo-out-today-on-xbl-and-psn/ |title=SEGA Europe Blog | Forklift Ryo Out Today On XBL and PSN |publisher=Blogs.sega.com |access-date=April 18, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110524115358/http://blogs.sega.com/europe/2010/04/01/forklift-ryo-out-today-on-xbl-and-psn/ |archive-date=May 24, 2011 |
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==Notes== |
== Notes == |
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==External links== |
== External links == |
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{{Commons category|Shenmue}} |
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* {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140218014641/http://www.shenmue.com/ |date=February 18, 2014 |title=Website from original release }} |
* {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140218014641/http://www.shenmue.com/ |date=February 18, 2014 |title=Website from original release }} |
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* {{Official website|https://shenmue.sega.com/|Official Shenmue I & II website}} |
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* {{Official website|http://shenmue.link/|Official Shenmue III website}} |
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[[Category:Action-adventure games by series]] |
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[[Category:Video games adapted into television shows]] |
Revision as of 07:50, 15 June 2024
Shenmue | |
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![]() | |
Genre(s) | Action-adventure Interactive cinema Life simulation Social simulation |
Developer(s) |
|
Publisher(s) | |
Creator(s) | Yu Suzuki |
Platform(s) | |
First release | Shenmue December 29, 1999 |
Latest release | Shenmue III November 19, 2019 |
Shenmue[a] is an action-adventure game series created, produced and directed by Yu Suzuki. Shenmue (1999) and Shenmue II (2001) were developed by Sega AM2 and published by Sega for the Dreamcast. Shenmue III, developed by Suzuki's company Ys Net, was released for the PlayStation 4 and Windows in 2019.
The Shenmue games consist of open-world 3D environments interspersed with brawler battles and quick time events. They include elements of role-playing, life simulation and social simulation games, such as a day-and-night system, variable weather effects, non-player characters with daily schedules and interactive elements, such as vending machines, arcades, and minigames. The story follows the teenage martial artist Ryo Hazuki as he travels through 1980s Japan and China in pursuit of his father's killer. The original Shenmue was the most expensive video game ever developed at the time, with an estimated production and marketing cost of US$47 to $70 million, though some of the development also covered Shenmue II.
Shenmue and Shenmue II received mostly positive reviews. Critics praised their graphics, soundtrack, realism and ambition, but criticized their controls, slow pace and voice acting, and the focus on mundane detail divided players. The games attracted a cult following, appearing in several lists of the greatest video games of all time, and are credited for pioneering game systems, including quick time events and open worlds. However, they were commercial failures and further installments entered development hell.
In 2004, Sega announced a spin-off massively multiplayer online role-playing game, Shenmue Online, but it was not released. In 2010, a social game, Shenmue City, was launched in Japan; it was shut down a year later. In 2018, Sega released high-definition ports of Shenmue and Shenmue II for multiple formats. Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, Suzuki developed Shenmue III independently. It was released for the PlayStation 4 and Windows in 2019, and received mixed reviews for its similarity to the earlier games. An anime adaptation of Shenmue, co-produced by Crunchyroll and Adult Swim, premiered in February 2022.
Gameplay
In the Shenmue games, the player controls the teenage martial arts pupil Ryo Hazuki as he investigates his father's murder. The player explores the Yokosuka, Hong Kong and Guilin open worlds, searching for clues, examining objects and talking to non-player characters for information. The games feature a 3D fighting system similar to Sega's Virtua Fighter series; Ryo can fight multiple opponents at once, and can practice moves to increase their power. In quick time events, the player must press the right combination of buttons at the right moment to succeed.[1][2]
Shenmue I and Shenmue II feature a level of detail considered unprecedented for games at the time of their release.[3] Shops open and close, buses run to timetables, and characters have their own routines, each in accordance with the game's persistent clock.[4][5] Ryo receives a daily allowance which can be spent on objects including food, raffle tickets, audio cassettes and capsule toys. There are several minigames; for example, Ryo can throw darts or play complete versions of Sega arcade games, or earn money from minigames including driving forklift trucks, gambling, arm wrestling, fishing and street fighting.[6][7][8] The Dreamcast version of Shenmue II allows the player to import their save data from Shenmue, carrying over money, inventory items and martial arts moves.[7]
Premise
Games
1999 | Shenmue |
---|---|
2000 | |
2001 | Shenmue II |
2002 | |
2003 | |
2004 | |
2005 | |
2006 | |
2007 | |
2008 | |
2009 | |
2010 | Shenmue City |
2011 | |
2012 | |
2013 | |
2014 | |
2015 | |
2016 | |
2017 | |
2018 | Shenmue I & II |
2019 | Shenmue III |
IGN described Shenmue as a "revenge epic in the tradition of Chinese cinema".[9] According to Suzuki, the three games cover around 40% of the story he has planned.[10]
Main series
Shenmue
In 1986 Yokosuka, Japan, the teenage martial artist Ryo Hazuki returns to his family dojo to witness a confrontation between his father Iwao and a Chinese man, Lan Di. Lan Di demands Iwao give him a mysterious stone artifact, the dragon mirror. When he threatens to kill Ryo, Iwao tells him the mirror is buried under the cherry blossom tree outside. As Lan Di's men dig up the mirror, Lan Di mentions Zhao Sunming, whom Iwao allegedly killed in Mengcun, China. Lan Di delivers a finishing blow and Iwao dies in Ryo's arms.
Ryo's investigation leads him to Master Chen in the Yokosuka harbor. Through Chen and his son Guizhang, Ryo learns that the dragon mirror taken by Lan Di is one of two mirrors. He locates the second, the phoenix mirror, in a basement hidden beneath his father's dojo. He defeats a local gang connected to Lan Di's organization, and Master Chen tells him to seek the aid of Master Xiuying in Hong Kong. Ryo boards a boat to China.
Shenmue II
In Hong Kong, Ryo finds Master Xiuying Hong, but she refuses to help him, considering his quest for vengeance reckless. Ryo teams up with a gang leader, Wuying Ren, a free-spirited motorcyclist, Joy, and a street boy, Wong, to find Yuanda Zhu, who sent Ryo's father a letter warning him of Lan Di's intentions.
Ryo and his allies locate Zhu in Kowloon Walled City, but are ambushed by the criminal Yellow Head organization and Zhu is kidnapped. Ryo rescues Zhu as Lan Di departs by helicopter. Zhu reveals that Lan Di killed Ryo's father because he believes Iwao killed his own father. Zhu also reveals that the mirrors will lead to the resurrection of the Qing Dynasty, the last imperial dynasty of China. Zhu advises Ryo to continue his search in the village of Bailu in Guilin, where Lan Di is also heading.
In Guilin, Ryo meets a teenage girl, Shenhua Ling, whose family is connected to the legacy of the dragon and phoenix mirrors. She leads Ryo to a stone quarry on the village outskirts to meet her father, but discovers he is missing.
Shenmue III
Ryo learns that Lan Di's father, Zhao Sunming, once visited Bailu with Ryo's father to train under the local grandmaster. Zhao died under mysterious circumstances several years later. Ryo also discovers that the phoenix and dragon mirrors were created by Shenhua's great-grandfather at the request of the Chinese emperor.
Ryo and Shenhua learn that Shenhua's father, Yuan, has been kidnapped by a local gang looking for the phoenix mirror. Ryo defeats two of the thugs, but is defeated by their boss, Yanlang. He convinces Sun, a local martial arts master, to teach him a powerful Bajiquan move, and uses it to defeat Yanlang. A village elder helps them discover a map to the treasure connected to the mirrors. Ryo fends off an attack from Chai, who reveals that Yuan and Xu have been taken to the city of Niaowu.
In Niaowu, Ryo and Shenhua learn that a local gang, the Red Snakes, is holding Yuan and Xu hostage. Shenhua is tricked by a Chi You Men leader, Niao Sun. Ryo and his allies infiltrate the Chi You Men's castle and rescue Shenhua and her father. Ryo confronts Lan Di, but Lan Di easily defeats him. Niao Sun betrays Lan Di, and has her men burn the castle. Ryo, Ren and Shenhua continue their journey along the Great Wall of China.
Development
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/89/Yu_Suzuki_-_Game_Developers_Conference_2011_-_Day_3_%282%29.jpg/220px-Yu_Suzuki_-_Game_Developers_Conference_2011_-_Day_3_%282%29.jpg)
Shenmue and Shenmue II
The creator of Shenmue, Yu Suzuki, joined Sega in 1983 and created several successful arcade games, including Hang-On (1985), Out Run (1986) and Virtua Fighter (1993).[11] In comparison to arcade games, where the ideal experience was only a few minutes long, Suzuki wanted to make a longer experience.[11] In 1996, he and Sega AM2 began developing a Saturn RPG based on the Virtua Fighter series.[11]
In 1997, development moved to Sega's upcoming console, the Dreamcast,[12] and the Virtua Fighter connection was dropped.[12] By the time of the Dreamcast's release in Japan in November 1998, the game had been titled Shenmue.[11] Sega advertised Shenmue as belonging to a new genre it termed "full reactive eyes entertainment" or "FREE".[13] It became the most expensive game ever developed at the time, reported to have cost US$70 million; in 2011, Suzuki said the figure was closer to $47 million including marketing.[1] The development also covered some of Shenmue II (2001), which was completed for a smaller figure,[14] and possibly groundwork for future Shenmue games.[15]
Shenmue was released on December 29, 1999 in Japan,[16] November 8, 2000 in North America,[17] and December 1, 2000 in Europe.[18] Shenmue II was released for Dreamcast in 2001 in Japan and Europe only. An Xbox port followed in 2002 in Japan, Europe and North America. Despite attracting positive reviews and a cult following, neither game made a profit and Shenmue III entered development hell.[19]
Shenmue Online and Shenmue City
Suzuki worked on various projects which failed to see release,[20] including Shenmue Online, a PC MMORPG announced in 2004.[21][22][23] He established his own development company, Ys Net, in 2008[20] and left Sega in 2011.[20] In 2010, Sega announced Shenmue City, a social game for the Mobage service.[24] It was not released outside Japan and was shut down in December 2011.[25]
Shenmue III and remasters
During Sony's presentation at the E3 conference on June 15, 2015, Suzuki announced a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign for Shenmue III, having licensed the series from Sega. Shenmue III became the fastest-funded and the highest-funded video game project in Kickstarter history, reaching its initial $2 million goal in just over nine hours,[26] and earning $6.3 million in total.[27] It was released on 19 November 2019 for PlayStation 4 and Windows.[28]
Sega began developing remasters of Shenmue I and II featuring new models, textures and lighting, but it was canceled in 2017. Sega said that "working with original animations and characters but meshing them with enhanced HD visuals gave us a game that we felt would not meet the standards that Shenmue fans expect and deserve".[29] Instead, in August 2018, Sega released high-definition ports for Windows, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.[30] The ports include new graphics and control options, improved user interfaces, and Japanese and English voices.[31] Some details, such as product placement, are omitted, and cutscenes are presented in their original aspect ratio due to technical limitations.[32]
Later projects
In 2015, Suzuki said he hoped the series would cover four or five games.[33] Shenmue III includes a letter to fans from Suzuki expressing his hope to develop Shenmue IV.[34] In 2020, Suzuki told IGN he had created Shenmue III "for the fans", and that he planned to give Shenmue IV more mainstream appeal.[35]
Reception
Game | Metacritic |
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Shenmue | (DC) 89%[36][b] |
Shenmue II | (DC) 88/100[37] (Xbox) 80/100[38] |
Shenmue III | (PC) 69/100[39] (PS4) 67/100[40] |
The Shenmue series has received mostly positive reviews and has attracted a cult following, with Shenmue I and II appearing in several "greatest video games of all time" lists.[41][42][43] Shenmue III, released almost two decades later, received mixed reviews for its similarity to the earlier games. Some critics described it as outdated, while others praised its faithfulness to the franchise.[44] The series has received praise for its graphics, soundtrack, realism and ambition, but criticism for its controls, slow pace and voice acting; its realism and focus on mundane detail has divided players.[45][46]
Shenmue is credited for pioneering several game technologies. Its large environments, wealth of options and level of detail have been compared to later open-world games including the Grand Theft Auto series, the Yakuza series, Fallout 3 (2008), and Deadly Premonition (2010).[47][48][49][50] Shenmue is also credited for naming and popularizing the quick time event in modern games,[51][52] which was featured in the Resident Evil, God of War, and Tomb Raider series.[53]
Music
Several Shenmue soundtracks have been released. A promotional album, Shenmue Juke Box, was packaged with the limited edition of the original game in Japan and North America, containing ten select tracks from the in-game cassette tapes.[54]
A soundtrack for the first game, Shenmue OST: Chapter 1: Yokosuka, was released in 2000.[55] In September 2015, Data Discs released the Shenmue soundtrack on vinyl in three separate colored editions.[56] In March 2016, the music of Shenmue was voted into the Classic FM Hall of Fame in 144th place.[57]
Television series
An anime adaptation of Shenmue was announced on September 4, 2020, at the virtual Crunchyroll Expo.[58] It premiered on simultaneously on February 6, 2022, on the U.S. network Adult Swim's Toonami programming block and the streaming platform Crunchyroll in English dub and Japanese sub, respectively.[59] The series is directed by Sakurai Chikara, with Suzuki as executive producer, and adapts the events of the first two games. It was animated by Telecom Animation Film, with production management by Sola Entertainment.[59]
Other appearances
Ryo Hazuki is a playable character in Sega's mascot racer Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing. Ryo rides Naoyuki's motorbike and his special move features him driving a forklift, referencing his job at the Yokosuka Harbor.[60] A second version of Ryo that only rides the forklift was released as downloadable content.[61][62]
In 2012, Steve Lycett, executive producer of Sumo Digital, encouraged a fan-made poll on the Sega forums to determine which three Sega characters the fans would like to see in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed as downloadable content (DLC). Out of the 28 Sega characters chosen by the forum, Ryo Hazuki had the majority vote ranking 1st, while Hatsune Miku ranked 2nd, and Segata Sanshiro ranked 3rd.[63] On January 1, 2014, SEGA announced that Ryo will appear in the iOS and Android versions of Sonic & All Stars Racing Transformed which was released on January 2.[64] On January 14, Ryo became available for purchase as DLC on Steam for the PC version of Sonic and All Stars Racing Transformed. In this game, Ryo rides an arcade-themed vehicle that switches between OutRun, Hang-On, and Space Harrier arcade cabinets depending on its form.[65]
Notes
- ^ Japanese: シェンムー, Hepburn: Shenmū
- ^ GameRankings score
References
- ^ a b Diver, Mike (May 2, 2014). "Shenmue – discovering the Sega classic 14 years too late". the Guardian. Archived from the original on June 26, 2015. Retrieved June 30, 2015.
- ^ "Why is everybody so excited? WHAT'S A SHENMUE?". June 25, 2015. Archived from the original on March 3, 2016. Retrieved June 30, 2015.
- ^ "'90s Making of Shenmue documentary gives glimpse into legendary game". www.gameskinny.com. Archived from the original on September 22, 2016. Retrieved November 19, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue once featured cats that walk on two legs". Eurogamer. March 19, 2014. Archived from the original on October 1, 2015. Retrieved June 29, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue Review | Edge Online". Edge. May 31, 2013. Archived from the original on May 31, 2013. Retrieved July 3, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue II Review". GameSpot. Archived from the original on January 9, 2016. Retrieved November 20, 2015.
- ^ a b "Shenmue II Review – IGN – Page 2". IGN. October 29, 2002. Archived from the original on November 29, 2015. Retrieved November 20, 2015.
- ^ Bartlett, Liam (November 22, 2019). "Make it rain Yuan with these Shenmue 3 money-making tips". PC Gamer. Retrieved November 30, 2019.
- ^ "IGN Presents the History of SEGA – IGN – Page 8". IGN. April 21, 2009. Archived from the original on November 6, 2015. Retrieved November 18, 2015.
- ^ Allen, Eric Van (June 13, 2019). "Yu Suzuki Says Shenmue 3 Will Get Us 40 Percent Through Ryo's Story". USgamer. Retrieved August 20, 2019.
- ^ a b c d "Creator Yu Suzuki shares the story of Shenmue's development". Polygon. March 19, 2014. Archived from the original on June 28, 2015. Retrieved June 29, 2015.
- ^ a b "Shenmue, the History – IGN". July 14, 1999. Retrieved July 3, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue, the History". July 13, 1999. Retrieved June 8, 2020.
- ^ Fahs, Travis (September 9, 2010). "IGN presents the history of Dreamcast". IGN. Archived from the original on September 28, 2014. Retrieved November 11, 2017.
- ^ Kolan, Patrick (May 14, 2012). "Shenmue: through the ages". IGN. Retrieved June 30, 2015.
- ^ "シェンムー
一 章 横須賀 [ドリームキャスト] /ファミ通 .com". Famitsu (in Japanese). Archived from the original on December 11, 2015. Retrieved November 28, 2015. - ^ "Shenmue (Dreamcast)". IGN. Archived from the original on November 21, 2015. Retrieved November 17, 2015.
- ^ Barker, Sammy (July 16, 2015). "Soapbox: Why I Love Shenmue". Push Square. Archived from the original on December 8, 2015. Retrieved November 28, 2015.
- ^ Gillett, Nick (June 26, 2015). "E3 2015 round-up". The Guardian. Archived from the original on November 17, 2015. Retrieved November 12, 2015.
- ^ a b c "Yu Suzuki At A Time Of Transition". Archived from the original on November 4, 2016. Retrieved November 24, 2016.
- ^ Smith, David (August 3, 2004). "Shenmue Online Officially Announced". 1UP.com. Archived from the original on July 18, 2012.
- ^ "Shenmue Online canceled: Who will move all of these online crates now?". Destructoid. August 4, 2007. Archived from the original on January 2, 2016.
- ^ Arendt, Susan (August 7, 2007). "Rumor:Shenmue Gone for Good". Wired. Archived from the original on November 4, 2012.
- ^ Gantayat, Anoop (October 7, 2010). "Shenmue Goes Social on Yahoo's New PC Service". Andriasang. Archived from the original on July 17, 2011.
- ^ North, Dale (January 3, 2012). "Shenmue City shut down". Destructoid. Retrieved January 27, 2018.
- ^ "Shenmue 3 Just Hit $2 Million, Setting a New Kickstarter Record". June 16, 2015. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved February 27, 2016.
- ^ Luke, Reilly (May 1, 2017). "Shenmue III Kickstarter closes with over $6.3 million". IGN. Archived from the original on August 17, 2016. Retrieved July 30, 2016.
- ^ Phillips, Tom (June 3, 2019). "Shenmue III delayed to November". Eurogamer. Retrieved June 3, 2019.
- ^ "Revealed: Sega's cancelled Shenmue HD remake - with fully updated graphics". Eurogamer.net. Retrieved October 15, 2018.
- '^ Robinson, Martin (July 3, 2018). "Shenmues HD re-release gets a final date". Eurogamer. Retrieved July 5, 2018.
- ^ Knezevic, Kevin (April 13, 2018). "Shenmue 1 & 2 Coming To PS4, Xbox One, And PC This Year". GameSpot. Retrieved April 14, 2018.
- '^ Linneman, John (August 21, 2018). "Shenmues HD remasters analysed: enhancements are sparse but the ports are solid gold". Eurogamer. Archived from the original on August 21, 2018. Retrieved August 22, 2018.
- ^ Good, Owen S. (June 20, 2015). "Shenmue creator: story has 11 chapters, ideally '4 or 5 games' in the series". Polygon. Retrieved November 20, 2019.
- ^ "Yu Suzuki pledges to try to make Shenmue 4 via in-game letter to fans". VGC. November 20, 2019. Retrieved November 20, 2019.
- ^ Robinson, Andy (May 4, 2020). "Yu Suzuki believes Shenmue IV will happen and wants it to appeal to a broader audience". Video Games Chronicle. Retrieved September 5, 2020.
- ^ "Shenmue Reviews". GameRankings. Archived from the original on January 18, 2008. Retrieved July 18, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue II Reviews". Metacritic. Archived from the original on September 1, 2015. Retrieved July 18, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue II Reviews". Metacritic. Archived from the original on June 19, 2015. Retrieved July 18, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue III Reviews". Metacritic. Archived from the original on March 16, 2016. Retrieved July 18, 2015.
- ^ "Shenmue III Reviews". Metacritic. Archived from the original on July 29, 2015. Retrieved July 18, 2015.
- ^ "7. Shenmue – The 100 Greatest Video Games Of All Time – Empire Online". empireonline.com. Archived from the original on August 19, 2014.
- ^ "The 100 Greatest Games Of All Time- Shenmue - Empire - www.empireonline.com". empireonline.com. Archived from the original on October 8, 2014.
- ^ "Tech news and gadget reviews – MSN News UK". msn.com. Archived from the original on March 19, 2014. Retrieved March 18, 2014.
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External links
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)
- Website from original release at the Wayback Machine (archived February 18, 2014)
- Official Shenmue I & II website
- Official Shenmue III website