Shenmue III Consoles Release Nears

ININ Games Acquires Shenmue III Publishing Rights: Xbox and Switch Ports a Real Possibility?

The long-awaited possibility of Shenmue III arriving on additional platforms is now a tangible prospect, thanks to ININ Games' acquisition of the game's publishing rights. This development has sparked excitement among fans, particularly those hoping for Xbox and Nintendo Switch releases.

ININ Games' Acquisition and Platform Expansion

The acquisition of Shenmue III's publishing rights by ININ Games marks a significant turning point for the beloved franchise. Originally a PlayStation 4 exclusive (released in 2019, also available on PC), this move opens the door for potential ports to platforms like Xbox and Switch. ININ Games' history of bringing classic arcade titles to multiple platforms suggests a similar fate may await Shenmue III, significantly expanding its player base.

The game, currently available digitally and physically on PS4 and PC, could soon see a wider release. The potential for a Switch and Xbox release is particularly enticing given the strong fan demand.

Continuing Ryo's Journey: Shenmue III's Story and Reception

Shenmue III continues the saga of Ryo Hazuki and Shenhua, as they delve deeper into uncovering the truth behind Ryo's father's murder. Their journey takes them into enemy territory, confronting the Chi You Men cartel and Lan Di. Powered by Unreal Engine 4, the game blends classic aesthetics with modern visuals, creating a captivating and immersive world.

While Shenmue III boasts a "Mostly Positive" 76% rating on Steam, some players have voiced concerns regarding controller-only gameplay and late Steam key delivery. Despite these issues, the desire for an Xbox and Switch port remains strong among fans.

A Shenmue Trilogy on the Horizon?

ININ Games' acquisition could extend beyond Shenmue III. Given their track record of reviving classic games and their current collaboration with HAMSTER Corporation (releasing Taito titles in a physical/digital bundle on December 10th), the possibility of a Shenmue I & II rerelease under their banner, potentially creating a complete trilogy, is a compelling prospect. Shenmue I and II are already available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One. While no official announcement exists, this remains a strong possibility given ININ Games' actions.