What exactly is that wall shelf for your games in the background? I really want to buy that so my hundreds of games arent such a sloppy mess in the background of my vids.
***** Nintendo would work if the Wii U was successful, but it isn't. Steam is completely impossible because Valve won't pay to develop the game. Microsoft is obviously out, as I mentioned in the video. Sony makes sense for a lot of reasons, not least of which is them declaring their interest publicly.
AdamKoralik err no. Actually i dont. Steam has a lot brighter future and potential now then ever. All those HD sega remakes that were mentioned? They are all ...ALSO on steam. Sega loves PC. :) Though Perhaps i am bias because i dont have a PS4 and PC is my main gaming setup now. But to completely say any chance of shenmue on steam is a joke? Not really. Look at mighty number 9. I know its a crowd funded indie title. But...essentially...what was their first choice? It WAS NOT console. PC via Steam was their first choice. why? Because PC is hella easier to develop for, and steam has a massive user base. It wasnt until they met higher goals console was unlocked. I love consoles adam. But i also believe in PC.
neoknux009 Well then let me quickly explain why that's totally impossible. Sega will not make the game on their own. Established. Valve, owners of Steam, will not fund Shenmue III's development. Given these two things, we can only conclude that Shenmue III on Steam is not plausible. If Sega DID develop the game on their own without a fusion of cash from someone paying for exclusive rights : cough cough Sony cough cough :, then yes obviously it should get a PC version. But at that point it would also get a Wii U, XBox One, and PS4 version. This is absurd though, as Sega will obviously not make the game on their own.
James Ryan Steam is not plausible unless Sega were to fund the game on their own. But please, since I must be wrong, explain to me how that would work? Is Gabe Newell suddenly going to fund Shenmue III instead of Half Life 3?
TurboCMinusMinus The Wii U certainly has sold more since I made the video, that was a year ago. But no, the Wii U is still very seriously under performing. For reference, the Dreamcast sold more units in two years than the Wii U has in three. I love the Wii U to pieces, but it has no chance of getting Shenmue III. Sega doesn't have a partnership with Nintendo.
I had a dream one time where yu suzuki walked out on stage at e3 and announced shenmue 3 and everyone went crazy. Actually he didn't announced it. He just walked on stage and smiled and everyone knew what was about to happen.
I really do believe the first few Shenmue games should have gone on Sega Saturn, and then the others going to Dreamcast. We know from the Shenmue demos on Dreamcast that it would have been a good game with great graphics at the time, and that would have helped to build hype for the rest of the sequels and the Dreamcast as a console. There would be a beloved, advanced Saturn game that lead into a larger fandom with the Dreamcast; Instead of an impressive FIRST launch, to sell the Dreamcast itself.
On the end credits of Shenmue 1 and 2, all of Sega's internal development studios are listed as being involved in various ways. Most of them are gone now. Yu's prolific output at Sega stalled after the Sammy takeover (after Shenmue 2 he made VF4 and Outrun 2). I don't think that's a coincidence, especially given the departure of Oba, Naka, Mizaguchi, etc at that time. Its not a creativity friendly culture these days; Suzuki himself has said that Japanese game companies have gone from being the most creative to now becoming very conservative.
I can't see how the hd digital release would ever garner enough sales to convince a 3rd to be made. The remaining passionate fanbase should be enough to consider investing in the production of a Shenmue 3. They're putting big budgets in new games they gamble on to be successful all the time, and often times they flop. Shenmue 3 has much less risk since, with its current cult status, there'd be a huge buzz that'd not only reawaken old fans but bring on many new ones as well. Also, the storyline is already complete and undoubtedly amazing (as far as I can assume). So it's not like they have to put much time into devising a great story. Yu mentioned they still have compressed textures and whatnot destined for the third game, but I assume they're more likely to start from scratch at this point. I think the best piece of evidence to remain hopeful is sony mentioning Shenmue as one of the top requested games. If it was impossible, I doubt he would have even mentioned it alongside yakuza. I think 2014, with new consoles looking for new franchises and the GDC event in March, this is the last year for a Shenmue revival.
I agree one hundred percent with you. Im a die hard shenmue fan got all of them. Seen your videos and you got me convinced. Didnt really know all this until couple days ago. I work a lot so not enough free time but gaming. Would be the greatest to see shenmue reborn.
Another great video Adam! As a hardcore Shenmue enthusiast, I too would love to see any kind of Shenmue release on a modern console and, of course, a third installment. But in thinking back to some of your other videos, in which you state that consoles as gaming devices are on their way out due to the majority of the market being casuals, I wonder if we're not getting our hopes up falsely. Shenmue is, without a doubt, the best game that I've ever played but for those that just want to kill half an hour on Candy Crush?
Yu Suzuki revisits Shenmue in GDC 2014 Classic Game Postmortem For March's Game Developers Conference 2014, we're announcing one of the most exciting game postmortems yet. Yu Suzuki, the influential Japanese game designer famously known for his work at Sega, will be delivering a Classic Game Postmortem on the iconic Dreamcast game Shenmue. Mark Cerny, game designer and lead system architect for PlayStation 4 will be on-hand to translate Suzuki's presentation into English for the audience. Suzuki, currently president of his own studio YsNet, will talk for the very first time about the creation of the console classic Shenmue. Beginning with the origin of the title as a Virtua Fighter-based RPG on the Sega Saturn, he will take the audience through the long journey of the game that led to its ultimate release in 1999 on the Sega Dreamcast. This is an hour-long session - we'll have more scheduling details about the talk as GDC gets closer, but we figure a lot of you would like to get this on your radar! If you can't make it to GDC, be sure to watch the session livestreamed on GameSpot. More essential GDC details GDC is in its 28th year, and is the world's largest and longest-running professionals-only game industry event, and will once again take place at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, California during March 17-21, 2014. You can register for the event by visiting the info page on the official GDC 2014 website. Early Bird pricing, with discounts up to 30 percent, will remain in effect until January 31st, and some passes including the Indie Games Summit pass have limited amounts, so interested parties should register now. GDC 2014's Main Conference, held on Wednesday-Friday, will contain seven Tracks: Advocacy, Audio, Design, Production, Programming, Visual Arts, and Business, Marketing & Management. We have lots more planned for GDC 2014, including our Independent Games Festival (with over 1,000 entries across student and main competitions) and of course plenty more sessions to be announced. So make sure to mark your calendars now and start planning: GDC 2014 is March 17-21, 2014 at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, California. More information about Game Developers Conference 2014 is available via its official website.
on point as usual. a multi plat Shenmue HD release would imply sega made it themselves which isnt going to happen. We as shenmue supporters need to strongly get behind this idea that PS4 is the logical answer. a PC release would be great but who would back it? people dont understand the financials. Sony could use Shenmue as much as we want the HD and 3rd game.
I think you hit this right on the head. I'm of the exact mindset as you, since I (rightly or wrongly) have always blamed Sony for Sega's console demise and swore I would never, EVER, buy a PlayStation... but my god, if they have Shenmue 3 exclusively?! That would all be forgotten, and I would buy one in a heartbeat, just to have Shenmue 3. And a cross-platform HD release, whilst generating interest and testing sales potential, could easily reduce Sony's interest in the brand. Definitely potential for a poisoned chalice there...
basically, you need to give Sony incentive to funding Shenmue 3, and that incentive is to make it an exclusive, which makes it a potential system seller which makes Sony money pretty easy to comprehend and I agree that's the best chance it has to happen
At this point I would be happy with a Shenmue 1 & 2 HD and maybe a tweak to end the story at the end of 2. As sad as it makes me feel this way, I just don’t think we will ever get Shenmue 3 and if we do it will be a “Duke Nukem Forever.” I hope I am very wrong with this and they do make it but I gave up on this game a long time ago until I came across this channel.
great vid Adam. you're right, of course. man, i just hope someone from sony sees your vids and passes them on to someone who matters. the pure rock solid sense of it must have a chance.. it just has to happen. a definite system seller. id buy one tomorrow if it was announced. and no other game could make me do that.
That's a good point and I would absolutely buy a ps4 just for that. Although im already planning on picking one up as soon as it becomes available in my area, so lets just hope a 3 does come out.
Speaking of Shenmue in HD I just found the first one at a disc replay here in Michigan. I also finally ordered a VGA cable. Now to find a good deal on that VGA-HDMI scaler.
Don't worry about the Video length Adam. Your logic and reasoning is sound, and I easily can follow and agree with your assumption that Shenmue III would be best suited for PS4, and the likelihood of Shenmue III being on PS4 will be compounded if the Shenmue series is HD Re-released on PS4 only. That being said, I still doubt it will pull enough return money even if they did develop and release a third title in this franchise. While Re-releasing 1 and 2 in HD would probably work out just fine when it comes to returns, as like you said, they only need to reskin everything with an HD coat of paint and fix the QTE's for PS4 controllers rather then DC/First Gen Xbox. And I also believe that you bring up a GREAT point saying that SEGA probably shouldn't be the one doing the developing of the HD re-release. But I do believe that fanbases have a habit of over-estimating their size. Outside of the Dreamcast community, and those who were able to enjoy Shenmue 2 on Xbox, how many people know of the game? How many people who are always up-to-date with the newest consoles know of the game? And if they do know of the game, are they willing to give it a chance? The Shenmue Fanbase is easily large enough to support a HD re-release and make Sony more money (Because regardless of whatever anyone else that is reading this comment thinks, you and I both know that companies are ONLY in it for the money). I fully believe that a physical HD release of Shenmue I and II would help sales of the PS4 also, if only slightly. That said, I fully doubt that it would launch the title into the public eye, get enough people interested enough to buy it, AND garnish enough interest to get the finale in the trilogy made. Sonic Adventure series, Classic Resident evil series, Final Fantasy VII-X, Megaman series, Doom Series, Early Halo series entries, early DOA/Mortal Kombat/Soul Calibur/Street Fighter/Tekken entries could do it, because these titles are all recognizable icons from the past, very well remembered amongst gamers. Enough interest would be garnished for it due to a long-lasting pre-set fanbase. Shenmue, due to the consoles it was released on and how much it sold on both consoles (Just over a million for Shenmue 1 on DC in all three regions, and just about a million in all three regions for the combined DC European and XBOX American release of the second) (Correct me if my numbers for the game is wrong). Yes, partially that was due to the second not receiving good advertising in America, the fact that the game had a HUGE price tag on the DC, and how it's gameplay style did not appeal to everyone, along with other smaller things that you are aware of. Not enough people became interested with the first two games that could warrant it as being as 'classic' and 'memorable' as the aforementioned assorted titles were. It has developed a slightly-larger-then-cult following, and it does frequent top (insert number here) game lists for best graphics/game/etc, but to the normal gamer, NOPE, it's almost unheard or only referenced as a stepping stone for some of the genius stuff it had like weather, day/night, and induction of QTE's. To sum it all up, My firm belief is that: There is NOT enough interest in the modern market for a Shenmue 3. If developed and released, it would NOT return a profit, and while it wouldn't cause a loss of as much money as the first two did (I know that was circumstances due to what consoles they released on, and the fact that the game only cost about 47 million in itself while the sum of the Saturn version production, the DC version production, and the later Xbox version production would be almost 85 million), it would struggle to break even (it could probably break even, but just barely). The reason is because Shenmue III is NOT as well known in the current market, outside of nostalgia-driven 'Greatest Game Ever' lists and how the game brought new things into the market at the time like QTE's. I honestly could see the Fear Effect series making a better comeback with a FE3 then Shenmue 3. Then again, maybe this is all just an opinion that is poorly based. Maybe I should hold my tongue because I myself have not played Shenmue, and while I'm sure the experience with it will definitely come, I doubt it would be enjoyable because...well, let's just say I hate QTE's with a burning passion, and I can't stand slow progression. Besides, would you be okay with the Shenmue series just be used as another bargaining stake in the never-ending PS2 VS Xbox...er...PS3 vs 360...er...PS4 vs Xbox1 debate over graphics? Do you want the game coming out in an era where games are made unfinished and then your forced into downloading 5 DLC patches to fix bugs? That's my $0.02, go to the slots with it. Hope it made sense.
Believe me, I know the risk. I just hope the fan base comes together to let the wider masses know. The beautiful thing about it being released again would be that it's advertised by them to a whole new group of people, not just the existing fans.
I've been thinking about this myself lately, and personally I feel the best way for Sony to do it is to release 1 and 2 digitally, and use that for promotion and hype for Shenmue 3 If I was behind it, i'd consider grabbing the rights to a HD port as soon as possible of the first two games, they could put Shenmue 1 HD on the PS+ service which would hopefully open the series up to alot of people who haven't played, or even may not be aware of the series, this would be better sooner than later as the plus games are one game a month at the moment, and in the future will expand to include more games. I'm a PC gamer, but own a PS4, PS3, Wii U, 360 etc and fully intend to buy a Xbox One, At the end of the day, judge the game, not the platform it's on.
Great video. . Say do you have shining force 3 on the Saturn? Let's put it this way..if shenmue HD was to come out..why now when it should have been out ages ago.. Its been gone for so long. .
AdamKoralik Yeah, a physical release would be nice, but I can't see one happening unless it's with Shenmue 3 in the box... Then again, Sony did start the whole HD collection thing with God of War, so never know.
I think that it's likely that bringing Shenmue 1+2 to modern consoles, in any HD capacity would be prohibitively expensive and that's why it hasn't happened yet. I can't be sure, but I believe that they'ed have to remake the game in a modern engine which would almost be like starting from scratch, they would have outdated textures and voice acting to use, also they'd already know how the game needs to come together, but in the end they'd have to ask the question, would the earning potential of this re-release outweigh the cost of basically rebuilding a pretty large game from the ground up. The only recent comparison I can think of would be Kingdom Hearts and Shenmue only sold about 1/6 to 1/5 of what Kingdom Hearts did originally, but Shenmue could take a similar path, but I'm not sure that the money's there. I guess all we can do now is sit and wait.
For the PC gamers Im sure there will be a ps4 emulator if shenmue 3 or HD ever does come out. However if shenmue 3 did get annouced for ps4. I just would have to buy the console.
I could not agree with you more. Sony should look at Shenmue as a golden opportunity to gain a huge IP. The fan base is there and the potential is there. As you stated they could test the market with a HD release of Shenmue 1&2. Would not cost them much of anything. If it sold well, then we would have a much higher chance of a sequel. Sony just needs to realize Shenmue is an amazing IP just collecting dust. Very well thought out Adam.
I agree with you 100%. I think Sony would be best especially for exclusives. I'm not a Sony fan, but a part of me thinks that Sony would do an amazing job all around with the series. I would say Sony is the best bet.
although it's thought that Jet Set Radio 3 is in the works, some guy on twitter who has somethign to do with it had hinted at it. cant give too much info because i only remember glancing across, maybe someone else who sees this will remember it. I think it only happened like a week ago
Agree with you Adam, but this is my thoughts. Sony or Nintendo (because we cant discard nintendo because is at the same situation like sony) have 2 choices: take the risk and make shenmue 3 or make the hd collection with the "promise" if sell well they will make the new one. I think the best deal here is make shenmue 3 for some reasons. First, we can think that is a risky situation because this market is more appealing to shooter and easy games and not this kind of game, but take for example heavy rain/beyond two souls (also yakusa..), this are in some way like shenmue (shenmue is way better) and both sold really well, so we can say the market is there. So, they can make the same thing that xbox did with shenmue 2, make the new game and make a section with a brief with shenmue 1/2 story and thats all. If they make the hd collection with the promise with shenmue 3, well I can think here like you Adam that maybe it will never gonna happen. We can pressure them if they make that promise but the only hope to have shenmue 3 is the exclusivity on the console, so like you said is better that shemue hd come out in just one console and wait for the third one.
If Nintendo had a financially successful console, they'd be in play for the game too. Sadly they don't. Anything with Shenmue is a risk, sadly that's why it's in limbo.
Good points with Sega re-releasing Shenmue 1/2, compared to their ports of Sonic Adventure, Jet Set Radio, Space Channel etc. Never occurred to me before that there is a good possibility that if we get Shenmue HD as a digital only thing (seriously hope not, as I do not agree with digital at all), then Shenmue III is pretty much a fucking lost cause. However, I'm gonna go ahead and hope/assume that at GDC this year, maybe...just maybe, Yu Suzuki will have some information he could enlighten us with. Last years GDC, Hideo Kojima and friends did a whole big talk on the Fox Engine from a game development point of view, and they did their whole talk and at the end they aired a trailer officially confirming Metal Gear Solid V instead of that whole Phantom Pain shit they were trying to get away with. So, maybe Yu Suzuki and Sony have kept some Shenmue stuff tightly under wraps and what better way to remind the gaming community that Shenmue is a thing, by having a GDC talk about the series from start to it's current unfinished state, and then decide after sort of, re-informing people about Shenmue, then it would be a good time to actually talk Shenmue III, something that would finally give us some level of closure. I mean, if it's not coming, -ever-, just tell us right? Give us the script, make it a book, do something, but it's just downright unfair to leave us hanging like this. /rant Thanks.
I read somewhere that Shenmue does come up at SEGA, and it's something near and dear that they take pride in (hence their lack of interest in selling the IP) but they aren't in the position to revisit it with the resources that would do it justice. Honestly, I'm to the point where I just want Shenmue 3 as essentially an interactive cutscene with QTE and fights, perhaps some limited exploration and branching story elements. It's just too expensive to build an open world game, and I want to know how the story ends. Oh, and never apologize for lengthy Shenmue videos!
I think there's another problem with the possibility of Shenmue 3 ever happenning. If Shenmue HD will be released and the only differences between original version would be HD graphics it could not sell well. People are complaining about short games, but they like it after all. Now imagine that you must wait about 20 minutes in Shenmue I for day to pass by so you can push story forward.. I think that if Shenmue HD will be ever released it should be adapted to today standards (of course there should be option to play the original game).
It makes perfect logical sense for Sony to be the only company interested in ever investing in making Shenmue 3. I believe if the HD remakes come out and dont sell well, that would be the end for any chance to see shenmue 3. So as much as id like to see those hd remakes come out, i kinda dont want them to because im afraid of the outcome. And i rather stay hopeful of seeing shenmue 3 then seeing those hd remakes come and not sell as well therefor crushing any hopes of shenmue 3. My belief is if the hd remakes do come out early on this 8th console gen they WILL fail. My reasoning being is people want a reason to move to 8th gen consoles, most people dont want hd remakes thatll probably look the same if they were to come out for the 7th gen consoles.(maybe theyll stand a better chance to come out after the 7th gen consoles are dead (two or so years?))
We will know more next month it seems, I cant seem to find the new article about private funding that I recently read, but im sure we will know by March 21!!!!!
Sega is like a completely different company today, would they actually have the talent to replicate the scale and attention to detail of a Shenmue game with modern day graphics? A game like Shenmue would be very expensive in today's market and I don't even think they have that kind of budget to pull it off.
While I'd love to see Shenmue come to PC after all these years, I agree with Sony bankrolling the titles as kind of the ultimate option. I've always thought Shenmue somewhat of a black sheep as far as console titles because it's decidedly adventure game roots. I mean look at the indie success of games like Gone Home and it's easy to see where Shenmue this in the largely PC genre of adventure titles and the kind of story telling that's done. Shenmue has a lot more Myst in it than it has say Final Fantasy . The kicker though is that Japanese development, source, and audience. That's why, while I think the title could have found more of a successful fan base on PC, the most likely source for a sequel is definitely going to remain in Japan. For those reasons I think you have to look at Sony or Nintendo. I think Sony's production studios have shown a lot more interest and success with titles on their platforms. Look at the success of Yakuza on Sony's platforms.
You Suzuki already told that the Shenmue 1 didn`t cost 70 million+ to produce. It was the valuebfor Shenmue 1 and 2, since the production started for the Sega Saturn And this game would be a sucess this days, just have to take the quick-time events out.
I have another idea that might be interesting to Sony. Why not make a new series in the Shenmue universe with different characters? It could parallel or be after the events in Shenmue 2, but new players (who haven't played Shenmue) could get interested in the universe and build up interest as . Sony could even employ the man who made Shenmue, if necessary, for any input to keep the quality and continuity going. Look at what Piranha Bytes did with the Gothic series, they reinvented it under a different name.
I can only imaging the rage from the Shenmue fan base if that happened. Sony: We've got the Shenmue license, and we're making a new game! Shenmue Fans: YES!!!! SHENMUE III!!!!! Sony: What? No, this is a spin off about other people. But it technically is the same universe. Kind of like how King of Queens and Everybody Loves Raymond are technically the same universe. Shenmue Fans: RAGE!!!!
AdamKoralik Lol since they are already raging now that there is no Shenmue 3, I don't think it would matter. If you want Shenmue 3, you will have to attack at every angle, even if it means pimping the universe as something Sony can have some control over. That doesn't mean Ryo couldn't be in it later, but someone needs to get the IP away from whomever is holding back the game, and show them that Shenmue can happen profitably.
I agree 100%. Even if Microsoft were interested I'd still want it on PSN. More Playstation consoles than Xbox consoles have been sold in the past 10-15 years. That combined with PSN being a free service means more potential copies sold, plus the potential of getting it on both PS3 and PS4 from the same store.
Wouldn't it make more sense if SEGA released the HD Versions for all Consoles? I mean if it released for all consoles and it sold extremely well, wouldn't that motivate Sony or anybody else for that matter to actually take a risk with Shenmue 3? Shenmue is a pretty old game and all though it has a nice following, I would think Sony would like to know if Shenmue can still sell and of course it will get new fans into the series. If Sony sees it sold really well on XBLA and STEAM, Im sure they would see it as potential customers so therefore it would be a good investment in making Shenmue 3. Personally I think the biggest problem with Shenmue HD is that it could be overhype by us original fans. I think it will feel outdated for somebody who never played Shenmue when it first came out and now plays a bunch of open world games. The reason shenmue 1 was special was because open world modern games were rare(I think Urban Chaos was the only kind of open game at the time but it couldn't match the realism/detail of shenmue). So now without having "Open world modern game" WOW factor, it could feel outdated(don't get me wrong the story and immersion of the game because realism/detail makes the game great and lots of Open world games now don't match that but it isn't fresh/exciting for 2014). I honestly havn't played Shenmue 1 since early 2000s because my Dreamcast doesn't work but I know Shenmue 2 which I feel is the inferior Shenmue, doesn't feel that fun last time I played it(to be fair I kind of felt it wasn't that good from the getgo so maybe it's just the game). So yeah it could leave some sourness in people's mouths if they expect the best game ever.Hopefully reviewers of the HD version explain and judge it for what it truly is, a great classic. Also I know gamers have been hearing about Shenmue since forever so Im sure they will buy it if they never played it. I hate Sony and Playstation because they were the final nail in the coffin for the Dreamcast. Even before that I hated the PS1 and preferred the Nintendo 64. I don't really hate them now, I own a PS3(Own an Xbox One/360, both preferred consoles/Dreamcast spiritual successor IMO) but I still have this bias against them because of the side I chose since I was a kid lol....If Sony made shenmue for the PS4, I would buy it.
Like I said in the video, that sounds correct on the surface. But when you really think about it, it doesn't work. Mostly because of the unique nature of Shenmue's limbo state. Anything with Shenmue must be treated delicately. Including this.
Wow! Adam was right the Shenmue HD collection is pretty much “half ass” lol Either way I do hope Sega gives the Shenmue Franchise the real love it deserves. Making a Shenmue Remake or at least a Yakuza Kawami type of upgrade. Dual controls and better voice over quality and 16:9 for both gameplay and cutscenes to say the least.
I can definitely see your point but I have never bought a console for one game. Shenmue 3 could be the one but for me to go back to sony, the game would have to be amazing. Love your videos by the way.
I kind of expected SEGA to release a compilation on the Wii. It's still SD, so it wouldn't be any extra work when it comes to graphics. Just add some motion control instead of QTE's and it'd be done. Kind of like what Nintendo did with some of their Gamecube games.
Adam, Shenmue Christmas Fangame and Ryo hazuki DLC for sonic racing. Pleassssse make a video on those two. I feel the promotion for these two are severely lacking. Especially when considering how great both pieces of content are. We need to promote Shenmue as much as possible this year, and I think this would be a nice way of doing so. Especially since your channel is probably the most dominant place on youtube to get shenmue news. Enjoyed the video, and I agree on almost all the points you made. Keep up the great work
I would most certainly recommend playing the fan game. It really does capture that shenmue greatness. There is even a cameo appearance of your youtube channel in the game. There is a let's play of it on youtube. Either search "shenmue fangame" or visit the official thread and view the video there.
No problem, the guy that did the let's play makes the experience that much more special. Brace yourself, its split into 2 parts and is over 2 hours long. But its all totally awesome. I think your channel makes an appearance in the first part. I would most certainly recommend giving the game a try for yourself, as there are many different events where you get the to make choices that affect the outcome. I actually might give it another watch now myself lol.
I'm scared, I need to buy Shenmue HD immediately when it comes out to show my support if it will indeed be a test market, in hopes of getting Shenmue 3. But if the test market fails, and we did not generate enough numbers, I will have bought a $500 Shenmue HD machine.... But I can't wait until to buy the HD until 3 is confirmed because that kind of thinking is what will PREVENT 3 from being release :'( My disposable income is not THAT disposable...
I am totally agree with you, actually I will buy the console for this game, at the time of shenmue 2 the dreamcast was not too familiar in my country, and i bought the original xbox for shenmue 2, I wish i can play shenmue one and three, and yes I would buy the console for it......
You make a good point, Adam. And I totally agree with you 100%. But I've been thinking about all the indie/homebrew releases we've been seeing for the Dreamcast lately. And I can't help but wonder why it couldn't be possible for a programmer out there to obtain the rights and produce their own Shenmue III independent release on the DC. I mean, if SEGA won't do it, then why not? What are your thoughts? Am I dreaming too big on this one?? lol
already said all i need to in a vid, the only real thing to add is the definate need for both dubs available on the re release, very much how you got both soundtracks for the sonic cd re release
For me it would be perfect if its on ps4 since that is my console of choice :) It does make sense only on ps4 to have a more of a chance to get Shenmue 3
Have you tried Sleeping Dogs? That game is the closest we'll ever get to Shenmue 3 with the Hong Kong setting and fighting system. It's a great game and it was even made available for free recently on Xbox live through their games with gold promotion...
Though I never played Shenmue and I also didn't really get the chance to buy a Dreamcast, I do respect the fans and I am looking fornward to play the game sometime. For now I was able to find an old XBox at a local shop and I am looking out for Shenmue 2 for the Xbox. I agree with everything you say sir, and I am looking fornward for Shenmue 3. For right now, I hold the opinion that Shenmue 3 has to happen before the HD remakes because they exists already and we can play them right?
The HD remasters would have to come first so the wider market who doesn't know about Shenmue gets a taste of it before Shenmue III were to hit the market.
I can play Final Fantasy VII and VIII on Steam, still that doesn't mean I will be able to play the 15th on PC. But it's your opinion, respect for a shenmue brother.
AdamKoralik It means even if Shenmue becomes a Sony franchise, I don't see how a possible release of Shenmue HD on multiple platforms is going to crush a possible Shenmue III. A big success of the HD collection might be the turning point in making Sony wanting to secure the rights. Now, all we can do is beg. With $$$ made, everyone will come.
NamelessBadassMOFO Maybe YEARS down the road after the game was already made. The differences here are significant. 1: Sony didn't own Final Fantasy, Square does. 2: Final Fantasy was massively successful in its original run.
What will make Sony lose their sleep over Shenmue? Be it owning it or pushing Sega into making it for them aka exclusive like FF/Square. Twitter messages or x amount of money made via the HD port? Here's the problem. The Shenmue series belongs to a dead console brand with minus 70 millions on the name tag. Nobody will pick up the license to avoid the re-release of 13 years old titles on other platforms. Until, somehow, someway, the franchise proves to be profitable... I don't see a way out of this. We can't interpret Sony doing good PR moves on social media with actual interest on the brand. Our best chance it's that SEGA sells it cheap to Sony or someone else and they give Yu Suzuki a small budget in which the guy pulls out a Metro Last Light on us. Shenmue HD getting released isn't any way gonna hurt the chances of Shenmue III, unless it does poor numbers. Which is likely if they only release it on PSN.
NamelessBadassMOFO To be fair, Shenmue "only" cost 47 million. 70 million was a number Sega threw out there for marketing purposes. The game also sold a lot better than it's given credit for. Not stellar, and not enough for a profit, but it was substantially better than people seem to remember. We also must acknowledge one incredibly significant details. The pool of potential customers. Only 7 million Dreamcasts existed in the world when the game was released. Less than a few months in and there are already 4 million PS4s. Give it another year or two and the number of people who might potentially buy the game would be staggering. Shenmue HD, under proper conditions, only helps the odds of Shenmue III's release.
If you are sony you'd have to say test the water, get a deal done with HD remakes and see if the money is there as that's what will be the deciding factor
I'm not much of a Playstation fanboy myself. I've owned Sega and Microsoft consoles up until a few years ago. I have a PS3 slim and Wii now. Honestly I don't care much for Shenmue HD. I'd rather have Shenmue 3 made or a "spiritual" successor like Mighty no 9. Ryo can be a Korean guy that does TaeKwonDo and Shenhua can be a homeless Thai girl that guards a Buddha head lol.
I have to agree with you adam sounds like the most logical reason. Sega just doesn't have the brains any more to give us the games we want. besides Shenmue I am still waiting and hoping for a Panzer Dragoon Saga 2, Shining Force 4, and a lot of other great IP's Sega has just let go to waste... That I am sure we will never get.
Adam this is something I've always wondered, obviously there is a lot of love for Shenmue in the Americas, Europe, Australia - all that. What is the sentiment over in Japan? is their a fan base that is just as committed in the west or does no one really care?
It's hard to be sure honestly, because the majority of the western fan base speaks English and the Japanese fan base doesn't really communicate with us much. They do exist, but it's possible we outnumber them significantly.
Wouldn't it make more sense to make shen mue HD on all consoles creating a bigger shen mue fanbase and making it a better idea for sony to make a better deal?
AdamKoralik No, there's no logic in that. The scenario that you lay out at 11:28 doesn't make logical sense. You're telling us that if Sega released Shenmue and Shenmue II on XBLA and Steam and Windows and PSN and it sold well across platforms that someone in the position to fund the game would see Shenmue III as unattractive as an exclusive for their platform? Moreover, Phil Spencer's comments on Twitter have nothing to do with not being interested in Shenmue III on XBOX platforms. He's only saying that his priority is building up a substantial first party catalog of games. Would I love Shenmue to be part of that? Yes. But how much would the license and production cost and what sort of sales are you likely to get, even if the game is great? This applies to all platforms, not just XBOX's.
Nate Lawrence There's nothing but logic in it. What I'm telling is the path Sega follows is...illogical. They release numerous games across the board that sell incredibly well, yet they never bother to make sequels with them. It will take more than Sega just saying "hm, sales were decent, let's make it" for Shenmue III to happen. I'm also telling you that Shenmue is too much of a risk for anyone one studio to want to just have Shenmue III. Having the whole saga is much more attractive, throwing the first and second in sweetens the pot. Phil Spencer was very direct about not pursuing Shenmue. See for yourself: Phil Spencer's Shenmue on XBox One Rumors - Adam Koralik
I wouldn't expect updated graphics, just widescreen HD remastering. Fixing the saving system in Shenmue 1 would be nice. Then an option for Japanese or English audio/subtitles would be nice.
I LOVE Shenmue, but no HD releases please. As good as it is it's dated horribly. Now that big open worlds, mini games and quicktime events are the norm it seems a tad primitive. Plus I'm in no rush to hear the awful English voice acting back. I;ll stick with Shenmue on my Dreamcast thank you very much!
I would love nothing more then for shenmue HD to be released and it leads to shenmue 3. But I don't ever see that scenario happening, I don't think shenmue would do well for non fans. I don't think this generation could appreciate Shenmue and the cheesy dialog like the fans. Personally I think the best chance of seeing Shenmue and it being successful if it was remade. I think it would have to be similar to Sleeping Dogs and the whole story would have to be in the game.
Thoughts on the video: 1) Has there been any news about Ryo Sonic Racing transformed DLC coming to consoles, yet? 2) I honestly didn't even notice the PS4 there until you pointed it out. Why do all the 8th generation consoles have to be so bland? Knock the GameCube all you want, but at least you could see it when placed on a black table! 3) You said that a Sony console has never been your console of choice, but about for this generation? Do you really think you could see yourself leaning more towards the XB1? 4) And finally, just curious as to your opinion: if Sony were to arrange for Shenmue HD and/or Shenmue 3, who do you think they'd have develop it? A Sony internal developer? A Sega internal developer (i.e. the Yakuza guys)? Contract an external developer, (e.g. Platinum or.... hmm, can't think of anyone else at the moment)? Doesn't seem like Yu Suzuki's studio could handle it on their own (though he should of course be hired, either freelance or in collaboration w/ YS.net) and I can't think of any other Japanese developers unless you bring in the bigger guys like Capcom or SE. Do you think a Western developer should/would be able to handle making a Shenmue 3? I'm sure you've been asked before but, who would you most like to see do it?
1: As far as I know, there hasn't been any, sadly. 2: Solid point. 3: I'm very on the fence this time. Mostly because Microsoft REALLY pissed me off this time around, and their console is...lackluster. The only reason it's still there is the cold truth that I've spent all my time playing Dead Rising 3 on it, while I'm yet to play much of anything on the PS4. 4: That's hard to say. Depends if they just pay Sega to make it, in which case they'd probably want the Yakuza guys, Atlus, or possibly Sumo Digital. If Sony did it internally, they'd probably throw JapanStudio at it so Yu Suzuki and Mark Cerny could work on it.
AdamKoralik I forgot about Atlus! Yes, that'd probably be the 2nd best choice if an internal Sega studio were to do it, though they might put more of a traditional RPG spin on Shenmue. Sumo I have doubts about their ability to handle a game on the scope of Shenmue 3 (or at least, the scope that it should have). They've mostly worked on arcade-type sports/racing games, and though I love the Sonic Racing games, they definitely don't take the same kind of developer as Shenmue does. And yes, Japan Studio does seem like the most likely fit from Sony - if only the Ico guys would finally release The Last Guardian so they could get working on Shenmue 3! ;)
I hate to say it but I agree alot with what adam's saying even though I will be buying an xbox one after the price drop and removal of kinect But i wouldn't say Microsoft is completely "out", even though they do own the IP, Killer Instinct was in development hell and was for 17 years. Even people working in M$ said it would never happen and it is also a fighting that has to compete with Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat. I know that M$ isn't greatly excited about the Japan market but a game like Shenmue coinciding with a Japan release date of a resigned and sleeker Xbox One would do wonders for the perception of the console over there and if sales were good, it would also get M$ to broaden themselves out more by making games to appeal to Japan as well, they made some effort with Lost Odyssey and Last Remnant but they need to go further and make Gears/Halo budgets for a JRPG or any game that caters to that market, Shenmue would be that bridge so it can always still be done I just want to see Shenmue released like everybody else, Ryo is still trapped in that damn cave
I read the article (paused it so i could get every little detail) and he didn't say they would never make it, just the fact that they want to focus on their own IP's and at this point, who could blame them? Xbox One has taken major flak and bad press ever since it's announcement and M$ have been notoriously criticized for partnering up with 3rd parties and not having enough franchises besides Gears and Halo. But this move would make the most sense especially considering the fact that the Xbox One will get a release in Japan and that this game is the most perfect scenario and demanded one to increase the perception of Xbox One in Japan as well as worldwide. Sony is a foothold there so of course they can do it and most likely succeed but M$ is a global business that needs to succeed in every market as well as japan, no matter how long it takes. You may have a compelling argument that $ony makes the most sense and in often times i do agree but I also believe M$ makes just as much sense, especially with their current predicament with the fans and getting the general public on their side again. And in UK Xbox Magazine, Shenmue was the most requested Xbox One game as well so $ony isn't the only one Whether you like it or not, $ony right now is the king of the mountain and therefore will most likely not feel the pressure of putting out a franchise that would exist primarily to please a fanbase but be looked at like a risk financially, they are already seen as the heroes but M$ is desperate and need a win, something that can ally people back to the brand and erase the bad press and Shenmue is the best way to do that coinciding with the launch of the Xbox One in Japan, M$ would hit a home run Plus Shenmue 2 was released for Xbox and regardless of the backhanded politics regarding that, it would be a thousand times easier for M$ to make a HD re-release of that game and Shenmue 1.
AdamKoralik I already did and pointed that out already, did you not read my extensive detailed rant? lol also M$ announced Xbox One is launching in Japan and that they are very excited for one of their game reveals at TGS so you never know
I agree with everything you said but I do worry about the future of Shenmue. Sony is desperate which could result in them resorting to all sorts of different tactics from going after old IPs for exclusives to... who knows what. Plus, there is that doomsday speculation that Sony might be bankrupt in a few years. I doubt that will come to pass but it is a bit disconcerting nonetheless. Still, it could be worse. Shenmue 3 could be put into full production with a system in place that allows the fans to directly contribute to the development process of the game. You can vote on art ideas, submit feedback to the devs about what elements you want to be kept intact from the original two titles, and see plenty of screen shots showing how the game is evolving graphically. Yet out of nowhere Sega would completely kill the project just when development was accelerating towards completion. This would then lead to the fan base asking Sega directly why they would do such a thing and Sega would respond by stating that all of you were not devoted enough Shenmue fans. Yeah… I would not wish that on anyone. There is still hope for the Shenmue franchise but Shenmue 3 really needs to happen this console generation since I’m not confident there will be a 9th.
AdamKoralik Yes, Yu Suzuki has a history of maintaining tight control over his projects which, to be honest, has often worked out well. Too bad Sega has him sitting in a corner sorting the mail or fetching people their coffee rather than directing awesome games. Regardless, thanks for making the video. It was a great watch as always.
Im personally not interested in an HD remake as I have them on my Dreamcast. I just want the third game. If said game comes with 1&2 it would be a nice bonus but I wouldn't expect it.
It must be remembered that Shenmue 3 will NOT conclude the series. Yu Suzuki has said that it will take at least 4, preferably 5 games to tell the full story of Shenmue. If the sequels are made, Yu Suzuki NEEDS to be the project lead, or else the games will be very disappointing.
I get your point, and I think it's very good. However, each of the games names are sort of one shot games no? Where Shenmue is a series that never finished...Not sure if that changes anything, but who knows. I guess we shall see what the future holds =(
AdamKoralik I mean that the story arch isn't as big as Shenmue, one shot in terms that this big story arch needs to be finished. But as I said, I agree and understand your point.
Nintendo has been trying to seem more "hardcore" with bayonetta another Sega title. They should release it. Plus it will cost less to make for wii u as opposed to ps4 and it's next gen graphics. Plus expectations are lower on the wii u. There are too many realistic open world games on ps4 to get non shen fans excited.
Personally, the first thing we should do is abandon the thought that Sega alone will push this product. As stated with the examples of Sonic Adventure, Space Channel 5, Jet Grind Radio, and Nights, the market is available, but Sega hasn't acted upon this. To get some sort of headway would require either an independent team or a subsidiary which is idling to do some work, present it it, leak it, and test the waters. This will only be good enough to grant some form of green light. Ideally, I would like somebody like Team Kojima to develop it, how ever this is grossly unrealistic due to their resource allocation for current and future projects. Second point always will be funding. Several videos back, the concept of KickStarter was visited, and yes it is working for Mighty No 9, but the team already had the means to start some form of development, and while it's billed as the spiritual successor to MegaMan, the game itself has no direct ties to an already registered and trademarked title. I would like an opinion though, last year Sega purchased Index Co who owns Atlus. Perhaps we're seeking the wrong group?
It is my opinion that Atlus would be a great developer, but being owned by Sega means they get access to Sega's IPs and money, but it's highly unlikely they can spearhead new projects. Shenmue especially. If Sony put up the cash for Sega to make it, then Atlus might fit like a glove.
What exactly is that wall shelf for your games in the background? I really want to buy that so my hundreds of games arent such a sloppy mess in the background of my vids.
It's just a DVD tower. I use it for games. Best Buy and Amazons sell them. A company named Atlantic makes them I believe.
***** Nintendo would work if the Wii U was successful, but it isn't.
Steam is completely impossible because Valve won't pay to develop the game.
Microsoft is obviously out, as I mentioned in the video.
Sony makes sense for a lot of reasons, not least of which is them declaring their interest publicly.
Steam ...huh? Sega can still make the game on steam. Segas relationship with PC and Steam has been awesome. And its my matter of preference. :)
neoknux009 I assume by that last statement you're just kidding and you know it's silly to think it has any chance at all of coming to Steam.
AdamKoralik
err no. Actually i dont. Steam has a lot brighter future and potential now then ever. All those HD sega remakes that were mentioned? They are all ...ALSO on steam. Sega loves PC. :)
Though Perhaps i am bias because i dont have a PS4 and PC is my main gaming setup now. But to completely say any chance of shenmue on steam is a joke? Not really. Look at mighty number 9. I know its a crowd funded indie title. But...essentially...what was their first choice? It WAS NOT console. PC via Steam was their first choice. why? Because PC is hella easier to develop for, and steam has a massive user base. It wasnt until they met higher goals console was unlocked.
I love consoles adam. But i also believe in PC.
neoknux009 Well then let me quickly explain why that's totally impossible.
Sega will not make the game on their own. Established.
Valve, owners of Steam, will not fund Shenmue III's development.
Given these two things, we can only conclude that Shenmue III on Steam is not plausible.
If Sega DID develop the game on their own without a fusion of cash from someone paying for exclusive rights : cough cough Sony cough cough :, then yes obviously it should get a PC version. But at that point it would also get a Wii U, XBox One, and PS4 version. This is absurd though, as Sega will obviously not make the game on their own.
James Ryan Steam is not plausible unless Sega were to fund the game on their own.
But please, since I must be wrong, explain to me how that would work? Is Gabe Newell suddenly going to fund Shenmue III instead of Half Life 3?
TurboCMinusMinus The Wii U certainly has sold more since I made the video, that was a year ago. But no, the Wii U is still very seriously under performing.
For reference, the Dreamcast sold more units in two years than the Wii U has in three.
I love the Wii U to pieces, but it has no chance of getting Shenmue III.
Sega doesn't have a partnership with Nintendo.
I had a dream one time where yu suzuki walked out on stage at e3 and announced shenmue 3 and everyone went crazy. Actually he didn't announced it. He just walked on stage and smiled and everyone knew what was about to happen.
Hopefully he does something some what exciting at the GDC 2014.
I really do believe the first few Shenmue games should have gone on Sega Saturn, and then the others going to Dreamcast.
We know from the Shenmue demos on Dreamcast that it would have been a good game with great graphics at the time, and that would have helped to build hype for the rest of the sequels and the Dreamcast as a console. There would be a beloved, advanced Saturn game that lead into a larger fandom with the Dreamcast; Instead of an impressive FIRST launch, to sell the Dreamcast itself.
shenmue was made as an exclusive for the dreamcast, it was used as a reason for people to buy the system
I agree with everything in this video.
Thank you sir.
I really didn't want to agree with you because of having a xbox one, but damn you made too many good points. Totally agree!
For what it's worth, I wish it was likely on all platforms...or any platforms at this point. Thanks for watching!
On the end credits of Shenmue 1 and 2, all of Sega's internal development studios are listed as being involved in various ways. Most of them are gone now.
Yu's prolific output at Sega stalled after the Sammy takeover (after Shenmue 2 he made VF4 and Outrun 2). I don't think that's a coincidence, especially given the departure of Oba, Naka, Mizaguchi, etc at that time. Its not a creativity friendly culture these days; Suzuki himself has said that Japanese game companies have gone from being the most creative to now becoming very conservative.
I can't see how the hd digital release would ever garner enough sales to convince a 3rd to be made. The remaining passionate fanbase should be enough to consider investing in the production of a Shenmue 3. They're putting big budgets in new games they gamble on to be successful all the time, and often times they flop. Shenmue 3 has much less risk since, with its current cult status, there'd be a huge buzz that'd not only reawaken old fans but bring on many new ones as well. Also, the storyline is already complete and undoubtedly amazing (as far as I can assume). So it's not like they have to put much time into devising a great story. Yu mentioned they still have compressed textures and whatnot destined for the third game, but I assume they're more likely to start from scratch at this point.
I think the best piece of evidence to remain hopeful is sony mentioning Shenmue as one of the top requested games. If it was impossible, I doubt he would have even mentioned it alongside yakuza. I think 2014, with new consoles looking for new franchises and the GDC event in March, this is the last year for a Shenmue revival.
I agree one hundred percent with you. Im a die hard shenmue fan got all of them. Seen your videos and you got me convinced. Didnt really know all this until couple days ago. I work a lot so not enough free time but gaming. Would be the greatest to see shenmue reborn.
Thank you for taking the time to watch.
Arent there any shenmue fan, who is millionaire?
Not to the level we'd need I'm sure.
@john main Boils down to personal preference I'm sure.
Though I will say I haven't made up my mind about the eighth generation yet.
Did you know:
In 2013, readers of German magazine M! Games voted Shenmue as the best game of all time in an online poll
Another great video Adam! As a hardcore Shenmue enthusiast, I too would love to see any kind of Shenmue release on a modern console and, of course, a third installment. But in thinking back to some of your other videos, in which you state that consoles as gaming devices are on their way out due to the majority of the market being casuals, I wonder if we're not getting our hopes up falsely. Shenmue is, without a doubt, the best game that I've ever played but for those that just want to kill half an hour on Candy Crush?
Shenmue's big problem is its lack of ability to appeal to the masses. It just requires too much dedication and thought. Sad, but true.
Yu Suzuki revisits Shenmue in GDC 2014 Classic Game Postmortem
For March's Game Developers Conference 2014, we're announcing one of the most exciting game postmortems yet.
Yu Suzuki, the influential Japanese game designer famously known for his work at Sega, will be delivering a Classic Game Postmortem on the iconic Dreamcast game Shenmue. Mark Cerny, game designer and lead system architect for PlayStation 4 will be on-hand to translate Suzuki's presentation into English for the audience.
Suzuki, currently president of his own studio YsNet, will talk for the very first time about the creation of the console classic Shenmue. Beginning with the origin of the title as a Virtua Fighter-based RPG on the Sega Saturn, he will take the audience through the long journey of the game that led to its ultimate release in 1999 on the Sega Dreamcast.
This is an hour-long session - we'll have more scheduling details about the talk as GDC gets closer, but we figure a lot of you would like to get this on your radar! If you can't make it to GDC, be sure to watch the session livestreamed on GameSpot.
More essential GDC details
GDC is in its 28th year, and is the world's largest and longest-running professionals-only game industry event, and will once again take place at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, California during March 17-21, 2014.
You can register for the event by visiting the info page on the official GDC 2014 website. Early Bird pricing, with discounts up to 30 percent, will remain in effect until January 31st, and some passes including the Indie Games Summit pass have limited amounts, so interested parties should register now.
GDC 2014's Main Conference, held on Wednesday-Friday, will contain seven Tracks: Advocacy, Audio, Design, Production, Programming, Visual Arts, and Business, Marketing & Management.
We have lots more planned for GDC 2014, including our Independent Games Festival (with over 1,000 entries across student and main competitions) and of course plenty more sessions to be announced.
So make sure to mark your calendars now and start planning: GDC 2014 is March 17-21, 2014 at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, California. More information about Game Developers Conference 2014 is available via its official website.
@Chris Pandas Thanks, but I hate those. They go out of date instantly.
Once again, your video was great Adam, I completely agree with your logic and we're together looking forward to Shenmue 3!
Thanks for watching!
on point as usual. a multi plat Shenmue HD release would imply sega made it themselves which isnt going to happen. We as shenmue supporters need to strongly get behind this idea that PS4 is the logical answer. a PC release would be great but who would back it? people dont understand the financials. Sony could use Shenmue as much as we want the HD and 3rd game.
I couldn't agree more.
Couldn't agree more with ya, bubba
Been saying the same thing over n over ...finally I've found someone who shares the same view
I think you hit this right on the head. I'm of the exact mindset as you, since I (rightly or wrongly) have always blamed Sony for Sega's console demise and swore I would never, EVER, buy a PlayStation... but my god, if they have Shenmue 3 exclusively?! That would all be forgotten, and I would buy one in a heartbeat, just to have Shenmue 3. And a cross-platform HD release, whilst generating interest and testing sales potential, could easily reduce Sony's interest in the brand. Definitely potential for a poisoned chalice there...
Thank you for taking the time to watch, I'm glad you agree.
basically, you need to give Sony incentive to funding Shenmue 3, and that incentive is to make it an exclusive, which makes it a potential system seller which makes Sony money
pretty easy to comprehend and I agree that's the best chance it has to happen
Hey man, great videos. Love 'em. Don't know what else to say but thanks for making great material.
No problem, thanks for watching.
I gotta agree with you Adam, your point makes a lot of sense, btw keep up the good work.
Thank you Gus.
At this point I would be happy with a Shenmue 1 & 2 HD and maybe a tweak to end the story at the end of 2. As sad as it makes me feel this way, I just don’t think we will ever get Shenmue 3 and if we do it will be a “Duke Nukem Forever.” I hope I am very wrong with this and they do make it but I gave up on this game a long time ago until I came across this channel.
Glad I could keep that flame alive in you sir.
great vid Adam. you're right, of course. man, i just hope someone from sony sees your vids and passes them on to someone who matters. the pure rock solid sense of it must have a chance.. it just has to happen. a definite system seller. id buy one tomorrow if it was announced. and no other game could make me do that.
Thank you my friend.
Thanks Adam for keeping it real
Agree 100%. I have an xbox 1 and don't care for ps, but if shenmue was exclusive to the ps4 I'd buy one in a heartbeat.
I will buy any console which will shenmue 3. Because I buy shenmue 3 and not the console.
That's a good point and I would absolutely buy a ps4 just for that. Although im already planning on picking one up as soon as it becomes available in my area, so lets just hope a 3 does come out.
I would kill for a Jet Set Radio Future 2!!!!
Speaking of Shenmue in HD I just found the first one at a disc replay here in Michigan. I also finally ordered a VGA cable. Now to find a good deal on that VGA-HDMI scaler.
I love Disc Replay, awesome chain.
Don't worry about the Video length Adam.
Your logic and reasoning is sound, and I easily can follow and agree with your assumption that Shenmue III would be best suited for PS4, and the likelihood of Shenmue III being on PS4 will be compounded if the Shenmue series is HD Re-released on PS4 only.
That being said, I still doubt it will pull enough return money even if they did develop and release a third title in this franchise. While Re-releasing 1 and 2 in HD would probably work out just fine when it comes to returns, as like you said, they only need to reskin everything with an HD coat of paint and fix the QTE's for PS4 controllers rather then DC/First Gen Xbox.
And I also believe that you bring up a GREAT point saying that SEGA probably shouldn't be the one doing the developing of the HD re-release.
But I do believe that fanbases have a habit of over-estimating their size. Outside of the Dreamcast community, and those who were able to enjoy Shenmue 2 on Xbox, how many people know of the game? How many people who are always up-to-date with the newest consoles know of the game? And if they do know of the game, are they willing to give it a chance? The Shenmue Fanbase is easily large enough to support a HD re-release and make Sony more money (Because regardless of whatever anyone else that is reading this comment thinks, you and I both know that companies are ONLY in it for the money). I fully believe that a physical HD release of Shenmue I and II would help sales of the PS4 also, if only slightly.
That said, I fully doubt that it would launch the title into the public eye, get enough people interested enough to buy it, AND garnish enough interest to get the finale in the trilogy made. Sonic Adventure series, Classic Resident evil series, Final Fantasy VII-X, Megaman series, Doom Series, Early Halo series entries, early DOA/Mortal Kombat/Soul Calibur/Street Fighter/Tekken entries could do it, because these titles are all recognizable icons from the past, very well remembered amongst gamers. Enough interest would be garnished for it due to a long-lasting pre-set fanbase. Shenmue, due to the consoles it was released on and how much it sold on both consoles (Just over a million for Shenmue 1 on DC in all three regions, and just about a million in all three regions for the combined DC European and XBOX American release of the second) (Correct me if my numbers for the game is wrong). Yes, partially that was due to the second not receiving good advertising in America, the fact that the game had a HUGE price tag on the DC, and how it's gameplay style did not appeal to everyone, along with other smaller things that you are aware of. Not enough people became interested with the first two games that could warrant it as being as 'classic' and 'memorable' as the aforementioned assorted titles were. It has developed a slightly-larger-then-cult following, and it does frequent top (insert number here) game lists for best graphics/game/etc, but to the normal gamer, NOPE, it's almost unheard or only referenced as a stepping stone for some of the genius stuff it had like weather, day/night, and induction of QTE's.
To sum it all up, My firm belief is that: There is NOT enough interest in the modern market for a Shenmue 3. If developed and released, it would NOT return a profit, and while it wouldn't cause a loss of as much money as the first two did (I know that was circumstances due to what consoles they released on, and the fact that the game only cost about 47 million in itself while the sum of the Saturn version production, the DC version production, and the later Xbox version production would be almost 85 million), it would struggle to break even (it could probably break even, but just barely). The reason is because Shenmue III is NOT as well known in the current market, outside of nostalgia-driven 'Greatest Game Ever' lists and how the game brought new things into the market at the time like QTE's. I honestly could see the Fear Effect series making a better comeback with a FE3 then Shenmue 3.
Then again, maybe this is all just an opinion that is poorly based. Maybe I should hold my tongue because I myself have not played Shenmue, and while I'm sure the experience with it will definitely come, I doubt it would be enjoyable because...well, let's just say I hate QTE's with a burning passion, and I can't stand slow progression.
Besides, would you be okay with the Shenmue series just be used as another bargaining stake in the never-ending PS2 VS Xbox...er...PS3 vs 360...er...PS4 vs Xbox1 debate over graphics? Do you want the game coming out in an era where games are made unfinished and then your forced into downloading 5 DLC patches to fix bugs?
That's my $0.02, go to the slots with it. Hope it made sense.
Believe me, I know the risk. I just hope the fan base comes together to let the wider masses know.
The beautiful thing about it being released again would be that it's advertised by them to a whole new group of people, not just the existing fans.
I'll give you that. We really have no idea as to how it will be recepted by the newer generation of gamers.
Falling Pictures Productions Not related, your first comment was flagged as spam again. :/
...I have no words to say.
Hey Adam! We did it.
If Nintendo did what they did with Bayonetta 2 to Shenmue that would be cool because they could rake in a lot of sales in US and overseas.
I put every one of your videos on Enhanced Definition (480p) so I feel like I am watching you on my Dreamcast! LOL X D
Appreciated.
I've been thinking about this myself lately, and personally I feel the best way for Sony to do it is to release 1 and 2 digitally, and use that for promotion and hype for Shenmue 3
If I was behind it, i'd consider grabbing the rights to a HD port as soon as possible of the first two games, they could put Shenmue 1 HD on the PS+ service which would hopefully open the series up to alot of people who haven't played, or even may not be aware of the series, this would be better sooner than later as the plus games are one game a month at the moment, and in the future will expand to include more games.
I'm a PC gamer, but own a PS4, PS3, Wii U, 360 etc and fully intend to buy a Xbox One, At the end of the day, judge the game, not the platform it's on.
I'd hope for a physical release, but at least in that scenario it'd be out there.
Great video. .
Say do you have shining force 3 on the Saturn?
Let's put it this way..if shenmue HD was to come out..why now when it should have been out ages ago..
Its been gone for so long. .
leoncleary Nah, working on tracking it down though.
Thanks for watching.
AdamKoralik Yeah, a physical release would be nice, but I can't see one happening unless it's with Shenmue 3 in the box...
Then again, Sony did start the whole HD collection thing with God of War, so never know.
I think that it's likely that bringing Shenmue 1+2 to modern consoles, in any HD capacity would be prohibitively expensive and that's why it hasn't happened yet. I can't be sure, but I believe that they'ed have to remake the game in a modern engine which would almost be like starting from scratch, they would have outdated textures and voice acting to use, also they'd already know how the game needs to come together, but in the end they'd have to ask the question, would the earning potential of this re-release outweigh the cost of basically rebuilding a pretty large game from the ground up. The only recent comparison I can think of would be Kingdom Hearts and Shenmue only sold about 1/6 to 1/5 of what Kingdom Hearts did originally, but Shenmue could take a similar path, but I'm not sure that the money's there. I guess all we can do now is sit and wait.
For the PC gamers Im sure there will be a ps4 emulator if shenmue 3 or HD ever does come out. However if shenmue 3 did get annouced for ps4. I just would have to buy the console.
I could not agree with you more. Sony should look at Shenmue as a golden opportunity to gain a huge IP. The fan base is there and the potential is there. As you stated they could test the market with a HD release of Shenmue 1&2. Would not cost them much of anything. If it sold well, then we would have a much higher chance of a sequel. Sony just needs to realize Shenmue is an amazing IP just collecting dust. Very well thought out Adam.
Thank you Raymond.
this would be a perfect idea. I think your idea is perfect
Thanks for watching.
I agree with you 100%. I think Sony would be best especially for exclusives. I'm not a Sony fan, but a part of me thinks that Sony would do an amazing job all around with the series. I would say Sony is the best bet.
As an old school Sega fan, it kills me to say it. But frankly it's the most pragmatic approach to breathing any life in to the series.
Sumo Digital are the only company i would trust with the HD updates of Shenmue I & II.
Sick figures! I've been playing Shenmue on ps4 last night.
although it's thought that Jet Set Radio 3 is in the works, some guy on twitter who has somethign to do with it had hinted at it. cant give too much info because i only remember glancing across, maybe someone else who sees this will remember it. I think it only happened like a week ago
I completely agree. Sony is the only avenue left. A HD release of the original 2 games would gauge whether a 3rd game would be economical vaiable.
Thanks for taking the time to watch.
Agree with you Adam, but this is my thoughts. Sony or Nintendo (because we cant discard nintendo because is at the same situation like sony) have 2 choices: take the risk and make shenmue 3 or make the hd collection with the "promise" if sell well they will make the new one. I think the best deal here is make shenmue 3 for some reasons. First, we can think that is a risky situation because this market is more appealing to shooter and easy games and not this kind of game, but take for example heavy rain/beyond two souls (also yakusa..), this are in some way like shenmue (shenmue is way better) and both sold really well, so we can say the market is there. So, they can make the same thing that xbox did with shenmue 2, make the new game and make a section with a brief with shenmue 1/2 story and thats all. If they make the hd collection with the promise with shenmue 3, well I can think here like you Adam that maybe it will never gonna happen. We can pressure them if they make that promise but the only hope to have shenmue 3 is the exclusivity on the console, so like you said is better that shemue hd come out in just one console and wait for the third one.
If Nintendo had a financially successful console, they'd be in play for the game too. Sadly they don't.
Anything with Shenmue is a risk, sadly that's why it's in limbo.
Good points with Sega re-releasing Shenmue 1/2, compared to their ports of Sonic Adventure, Jet Set Radio, Space Channel etc. Never occurred to me before that there is a good possibility that if we get Shenmue HD as a digital only thing (seriously hope not, as I do not agree with digital at all), then Shenmue III is pretty much a fucking lost cause.
However, I'm gonna go ahead and hope/assume that at GDC this year, maybe...just maybe, Yu Suzuki will have some information he could enlighten us with. Last years GDC, Hideo Kojima and friends did a whole big talk on the Fox Engine from a game development point of view, and they did their whole talk and at the end they aired a trailer officially confirming Metal Gear Solid V instead of that whole Phantom Pain shit they were trying to get away with. So, maybe Yu Suzuki and Sony have kept some Shenmue stuff tightly under wraps and what better way to remind the gaming community that Shenmue is a thing, by having a GDC talk about the series from start to it's current unfinished state, and then decide after sort of, re-informing people about Shenmue, then it would be a good time to actually talk Shenmue III, something that would finally give us some level of closure. I mean, if it's not coming, -ever-, just tell us right? Give us the script, make it a book, do something, but it's just downright unfair to leave us hanging like this.
/rant
Thanks.
I agree sir, thanks for watching.
I read somewhere that Shenmue does come up at SEGA, and it's something near and dear that they take pride in (hence their lack of interest in selling the IP) but they aren't in the position to revisit it with the resources that would do it justice.
Honestly, I'm to the point where I just want Shenmue 3 as essentially an interactive cutscene with QTE and fights, perhaps some limited exploration and branching story elements. It's just too expensive to build an open world game, and I want to know how the story ends. Oh, and never apologize for lengthy Shenmue videos!
Thanks for watching dude.
I think there's another problem with the possibility of Shenmue 3 ever happenning.
If Shenmue HD will be released and the only differences between original version would be HD graphics it could not sell well.
People are complaining about short games, but they like it after all. Now imagine that you must wait about 20 minutes in Shenmue I for day to pass by so you can push story forward..
I think that if Shenmue HD will be ever released it should be adapted to today standards (of course there should be option to play the original game).
It makes perfect logical sense for Sony to be the only company interested in ever investing in making Shenmue 3. I believe if the HD remakes come out and dont sell well, that would be the end for any chance to see shenmue 3. So as much as id like to see those hd remakes come out, i kinda dont want them to because im afraid of the outcome. And i rather stay hopeful of seeing shenmue 3 then seeing those hd remakes come and not sell as well therefor crushing any hopes of shenmue 3. My belief is if the hd remakes do come out early on this 8th console gen they WILL fail. My reasoning being is people want a reason to move to 8th gen consoles, most people dont want hd remakes thatll probably look the same if they were to come out for the 7th gen consoles.(maybe theyll stand a better chance to come out after the 7th gen consoles are dead (two or so years?))
We will know more next month it seems, I cant seem to find the new article about private funding that I recently read, but im sure we will know by March 21!!!!!
Sega is like a completely different company today, would they actually have the talent to replicate the scale and attention to detail of a Shenmue game with modern day graphics?
A game like Shenmue would be very expensive in today's market and I don't even think they have that kind of budget to pull it off.
still love sega as a company as they still make great games and try wired stuff
Exclusive on ps4 is deff the way to go.
While I'd love to see Shenmue come to PC after all these years, I agree with Sony bankrolling the titles as kind of the ultimate option.
I've always thought Shenmue somewhat of a black sheep as far as console titles because it's decidedly adventure game roots. I mean look at the indie success of games like Gone Home and it's easy to see where Shenmue this in the largely PC genre of adventure titles and the kind of story telling that's done. Shenmue has a lot more Myst in it than it has say Final Fantasy .
The kicker though is that Japanese development, source, and audience. That's why, while I think the title could have found more of a successful fan base on PC, the most likely source for a sequel is definitely going to remain in Japan. For those reasons I think you have to look at Sony or Nintendo. I think Sony's production studios have shown a lot more interest and success with titles on their platforms. Look at the success of Yakuza on Sony's platforms.
You Suzuki already told that the Shenmue 1 didn`t cost 70 million+ to produce. It was the valuebfor Shenmue 1 and 2, since the production started for the Sega Saturn
And this game would be a sucess this days, just have to take the quick-time events out.
I have another idea that might be interesting to Sony. Why not make a new series in the Shenmue universe with different characters? It could parallel or be after the events in Shenmue 2, but new players (who haven't played Shenmue) could get interested in the universe and build up interest as . Sony could even employ the man who made Shenmue, if necessary, for any input to keep the quality and continuity going. Look at what Piranha Bytes did with the Gothic series, they reinvented it under a different name.
I can only imaging the rage from the Shenmue fan base if that happened.
Sony: We've got the Shenmue license, and we're making a new game!
Shenmue Fans: YES!!!! SHENMUE III!!!!!
Sony: What? No, this is a spin off about other people. But it technically is the same universe. Kind of like how King of Queens and Everybody Loves Raymond are technically the same universe.
Shenmue Fans: RAGE!!!!
AdamKoralik Lol since they are already raging now that there is no Shenmue 3, I don't think it would matter. If you want Shenmue 3, you will have to attack at every angle, even if it means pimping the universe as something Sony can have some control over. That doesn't mean Ryo couldn't be in it later, but someone needs to get the IP away from whomever is holding back the game, and show them that Shenmue can happen profitably.
I agree 100%. Even if Microsoft were interested I'd still want it on PSN. More Playstation consoles than Xbox consoles have been sold in the past 10-15 years. That combined with PSN being a free service means more potential copies sold, plus the potential of getting it on both PS3 and PS4 from the same store.
PSN is not free on PS4.
It's not? I thought it was just PS+ that cost money on PS4.
Fond3ll I mean, you can connect to their store and stuff. I think thinks like UA-cam and Netflix still work. But that's kind of it.
Well, it'll be a good deal anyway considering how many consoles Sony has sold :)
Wouldn't it make more sense if SEGA released the HD Versions for all Consoles?
I mean if it released for all consoles and it sold extremely well, wouldn't that motivate Sony or anybody else for that matter to actually take a risk with Shenmue 3? Shenmue is a pretty old game and all though it has a nice following, I would think Sony would like to know if Shenmue can still sell and of course it will get new fans into the series. If Sony sees it sold really well on XBLA and STEAM, Im sure they would see it as potential customers so therefore it would be a good investment in making Shenmue 3.
Personally I think the biggest problem with Shenmue HD is that it could be overhype by us original fans. I think it will feel outdated for somebody who never played Shenmue when it first came out and now plays a bunch of open world games. The reason shenmue 1 was special was because open world modern games were rare(I think Urban Chaos was the only kind of open game at the time but it couldn't match the realism/detail of shenmue). So now without having "Open world modern game" WOW factor, it could feel outdated(don't get me wrong the story and immersion of the game because realism/detail makes the game great and lots of Open world games now don't match that but it isn't fresh/exciting for 2014). I honestly havn't played Shenmue 1 since early 2000s because my Dreamcast doesn't work but I know Shenmue 2 which I feel is the inferior Shenmue, doesn't feel that fun last time I played it(to be fair I kind of felt it wasn't that good from the getgo so maybe it's just the game). So yeah it could leave some sourness in people's mouths if they expect the best game ever.Hopefully reviewers of the HD version explain and judge it for what it truly is, a great classic. Also I know gamers have been hearing about Shenmue since forever so Im sure they will buy it if they never played it.
I hate Sony and Playstation because they were the final nail in the coffin for the Dreamcast. Even before that I hated the PS1 and preferred the Nintendo 64. I don't really hate them now, I own a PS3(Own an Xbox One/360, both preferred consoles/Dreamcast spiritual successor IMO) but I still have this bias against them because of the side I chose since I was a kid lol....If Sony made shenmue for the PS4, I would buy it.
Like I said in the video, that sounds correct on the surface. But when you really think about it, it doesn't work.
Mostly because of the unique nature of Shenmue's limbo state. Anything with Shenmue must be treated delicately. Including this.
Wow! Adam was right the Shenmue HD collection is pretty much “half ass” lol Either way I do hope Sega gives the Shenmue Franchise the real love it deserves. Making a Shenmue Remake or at least a Yakuza Kawami type of upgrade. Dual controls and better voice over quality and 16:9 for both gameplay and cutscenes to say the least.
I'll just buy any console that will have Shenmue 3 or Shenmue HD.
I heard a private source recently offered to fund Shenmue 3 and it may be in the works.
Have any kind of source on this?
I want it on the virtual boy it's 3d
I can definitely see your point but I have never bought a console for one game. Shenmue 3 could be the one but for me to go back to sony, the game would have to be amazing. Love your videos by the way.
Thank you.
I kind of expected SEGA to release a compilation on the Wii. It's still SD, so it wouldn't be any extra work when it comes to graphics. Just add some motion control instead of QTE's and it'd be done. Kind of like what Nintendo did with some of their Gamecube games.
I expected that too actually.
Adam, Shenmue Christmas Fangame and Ryo hazuki DLC for sonic racing. Pleassssse make a video on those two. I feel the promotion for these two are severely lacking. Especially when considering how great both pieces of content are. We need to promote Shenmue as much as possible this year, and I think this would be a nice way of doing so. Especially since your channel is probably the most dominant place on youtube to get shenmue news. Enjoyed the video, and I agree on almost all the points you made. Keep up the great work
Thanks.
I'd have more passion for the DLC if it had a console release. I admit I never played the fan game.
I would most certainly recommend playing the fan game. It really does capture that shenmue greatness. There is even a cameo appearance of your youtube channel in the game. There is a let's play of it on youtube. Either search "shenmue fangame" or visit the official thread and view the video there.
PersonaNation Oh shit, I should watch that. Thanks.
No problem, the guy that did the let's play makes the experience that much more special. Brace yourself, its split into 2 parts and is over 2 hours long. But its all totally awesome. I think your channel makes an appearance in the first part. I would most certainly recommend giving the game a try for yourself, as there are many different events where you get the to make choices that affect the outcome. I actually might give it another watch now myself lol.
PersonaNation Actually I'm watching it right now. :D
Adam, when's your next Shenmue vid?
I'm scared, I need to buy Shenmue HD immediately when it comes out to show my support if it will indeed be a test market, in hopes of getting Shenmue 3. But if the test market fails, and we did not generate enough numbers, I will have bought a $500 Shenmue HD machine.... But I can't wait until to buy the HD until 3 is confirmed because that kind of thinking is what will PREVENT 3 from being release :'( My disposable income is not THAT disposable...
I am totally agree with you, actually I will buy the console for this game, at the time of shenmue 2 the dreamcast was not too familiar in my country, and i bought the original xbox for shenmue 2, I wish i can play shenmue one and three, and yes I would buy the console for it......
Thank you for watching.
You make a good point, Adam. And I totally agree with you 100%. But I've been thinking about all the indie/homebrew releases we've been seeing for the Dreamcast lately. And I can't help but wonder why it couldn't be possible for a programmer out there to obtain the rights and produce their own Shenmue III independent release on the DC. I mean, if SEGA won't do it, then why not?
What are your thoughts? Am I dreaming too big on this one?? lol
I don't think any fan has the millions upon millions of dollars it would require to buy the Shenmue franchise.
Well...you never know! lol Hey...whatever it takes, right?
already said all i need to in a vid, the only real thing to add is the definate need for both dubs available on the re release, very much how you got both soundtracks for the sonic cd re release
I agree completely.
For me it would be perfect if its on ps4 since that is my console of choice :) It does make sense only on ps4 to have a more of a chance to get Shenmue 3
Have you tried Sleeping Dogs? That game is the closest we'll ever get to Shenmue 3 with the Hong Kong setting and fighting system. It's a great game and it was even made available for free recently on Xbox live through their games with gold promotion...
Though I never played Shenmue and I also didn't really get the chance to buy a Dreamcast, I do respect the fans and I am looking fornward to play the game sometime. For now I was able to find an old XBox at a local shop and I am looking out for Shenmue 2 for the Xbox.
I agree with everything you say sir, and I am looking fornward for Shenmue 3. For right now, I hold the opinion that Shenmue 3 has to happen before the HD remakes because they exists already and we can play them right?
The HD remasters would have to come first so the wider market who doesn't know about Shenmue gets a taste of it before Shenmue III were to hit the market.
I can play Final Fantasy VII and VIII on Steam, still that doesn't mean I will be able to play the 15th on PC. But it's your opinion, respect for a shenmue brother.
I'm not sure what that has to do with anything.
AdamKoralik It means even if Shenmue becomes a Sony franchise, I don't see how a possible release of Shenmue HD on multiple platforms is going to crush a possible Shenmue III.
A big success of the HD collection might be the turning point in making Sony wanting to secure the rights. Now, all we can do is beg. With $$$ made, everyone will come.
NamelessBadassMOFO Maybe YEARS down the road after the game was already made. The differences here are significant.
1: Sony didn't own Final Fantasy, Square does.
2: Final Fantasy was massively successful in its original run.
What will make Sony lose their sleep over Shenmue? Be it owning it or pushing Sega into making it for them aka exclusive like FF/Square.
Twitter messages or x amount of money made via the HD port?
Here's the problem. The Shenmue series belongs to a dead console brand with minus 70 millions on the name tag. Nobody will pick up the license to avoid the re-release of 13 years old titles on other platforms.
Until, somehow, someway, the franchise proves to be profitable... I don't see a way out of this. We can't interpret Sony doing good PR moves on social media with actual interest on the brand.
Our best chance it's that SEGA sells it cheap to Sony or someone else and they give Yu Suzuki a small budget in which the guy pulls out a Metro Last Light on us.
Shenmue HD getting released isn't any way gonna hurt the chances of Shenmue III, unless it does poor numbers. Which is likely if they only release it on PSN.
NamelessBadassMOFO To be fair, Shenmue "only" cost 47 million. 70 million was a number Sega threw out there for marketing purposes.
The game also sold a lot better than it's given credit for. Not stellar, and not enough for a profit, but it was substantially better than people seem to remember.
We also must acknowledge one incredibly significant details.
The pool of potential customers.
Only 7 million Dreamcasts existed in the world when the game was released.
Less than a few months in and there are already 4 million PS4s. Give it another year or two and the number of people who might potentially buy the game would be staggering.
Shenmue HD, under proper conditions, only helps the odds of Shenmue III's release.
If you are sony you'd have to say test the water, get a deal done with HD remakes and see if the money is there as that's what will be the deciding factor
I agree.
Oh my god. Don't even say JGR 3. got me all kinds of excited.
I'm not much of a Playstation fanboy myself. I've owned Sega and Microsoft consoles up until a few years ago. I have a PS3 slim and Wii now.
Honestly I don't care much for Shenmue HD. I'd rather have Shenmue 3 made or a "spiritual" successor like Mighty no 9. Ryo can be a Korean guy that does TaeKwonDo and Shenhua can be a homeless Thai girl that guards a Buddha head lol.
You called it!
I have to agree with you adam sounds like the most logical reason. Sega just doesn't have the brains any more to give us the games we want. besides Shenmue I am still waiting and hoping for a Panzer Dragoon Saga 2, Shining Force 4, and a lot of other great IP's Sega has just let go to waste... That I am sure we will never get.
Makes me sad too bro.
Adam this is something I've always wondered, obviously there is a lot of love for Shenmue in the Americas, Europe, Australia - all that. What is the sentiment over in Japan? is their a fan base that is just as committed in the west or does no one really care?
It's hard to be sure honestly, because the majority of the western fan base speaks English and the Japanese fan base doesn't really communicate with us much. They do exist, but it's possible we outnumber them significantly.
AdamKoralik
Good to know, yeah if only both groups could some how coordinate their efforts. Especially with the whole thunder clapping stuff.
Wouldn't it make more sense to make shen mue HD on all consoles creating a bigger shen mue fanbase and making it a better idea for sony to make a better deal?
Um, no, for all the reasons I explained in the video.
Shenmue as a Playstation exclusive is like Shenmue starring Lan Di as the hero.
Wouldn't be my first choice, but it's kind of the only choice.
AdamKoralik No, there's no logic in that.
The scenario that you lay out at 11:28 doesn't make logical sense.
You're telling us that if Sega released Shenmue and Shenmue II on XBLA and Steam and Windows and PSN and it sold well across platforms that someone in the position to fund the game would see Shenmue III as unattractive as an exclusive for their platform?
Moreover, Phil Spencer's comments on Twitter have nothing to do with not being interested in Shenmue III on XBOX platforms. He's only saying that his priority is building up a substantial first party catalog of games.
Would I love Shenmue to be part of that? Yes. But how much would the license and production cost and what sort of sales are you likely to get, even if the game is great? This applies to all platforms, not just XBOX's.
Nate Lawrence There's nothing but logic in it.
What I'm telling is the path Sega follows is...illogical. They release numerous games across the board that sell incredibly well, yet they never bother to make sequels with them. It will take more than Sega just saying "hm, sales were decent, let's make it" for Shenmue III to happen.
I'm also telling you that Shenmue is too much of a risk for anyone one studio to want to just have Shenmue III. Having the whole saga is much more attractive, throwing the first and second in sweetens the pot.
Phil Spencer was very direct about not pursuing Shenmue. See for yourself: Phil Spencer's Shenmue on XBox One Rumors - Adam Koralik
Besides updated graphics, what other improvements would you like to see in a HD port?
I wouldn't expect updated graphics, just widescreen HD remastering.
Fixing the saving system in Shenmue 1 would be nice.
Then an option for Japanese or English audio/subtitles would be nice.
I LOVE Shenmue, but no HD releases please. As good as it is it's dated horribly. Now that big open worlds, mini games and quicktime events are the norm it seems a tad primitive. Plus I'm in no rush to hear the awful English voice acting back. I;ll stick with Shenmue on my Dreamcast thank you very much!
Response video:
RE: Shenmue HD - Be Careful What You Wish For - Adam Koralik
I would love nothing more then for shenmue HD to be released and it leads to shenmue 3. But I don't ever see that scenario happening, I don't think shenmue would do well for non fans. I don't think this generation could appreciate Shenmue and the cheesy dialog like the fans.
Personally I think the best chance of seeing Shenmue and it being successful if it was remade. I think it would have to be similar to Sleeping Dogs and the whole story would have to be in the game.
Thoughts on the video:
1) Has there been any news about Ryo Sonic Racing transformed DLC coming to consoles, yet?
2) I honestly didn't even notice the PS4 there until you pointed it out. Why do all the 8th generation consoles have to be so bland? Knock the GameCube all you want, but at least you could see it when placed on a black table!
3) You said that a Sony console has never been your console of choice, but about for this generation? Do you really think you could see yourself leaning more towards the XB1?
4) And finally, just curious as to your opinion: if Sony were to arrange for Shenmue HD and/or Shenmue 3, who do you think they'd have develop it? A Sony internal developer? A Sega internal developer (i.e. the Yakuza guys)? Contract an external developer, (e.g. Platinum or.... hmm, can't think of anyone else at the moment)? Doesn't seem like Yu Suzuki's studio could handle it on their own (though he should of course be hired, either freelance or in collaboration w/ YS.net) and I can't think of any other Japanese developers unless you bring in the bigger guys like Capcom or SE. Do you think a Western developer should/would be able to handle making a Shenmue 3? I'm sure you've been asked before but, who would you most like to see do it?
1: As far as I know, there hasn't been any, sadly.
2: Solid point.
3: I'm very on the fence this time. Mostly because Microsoft REALLY pissed me off this time around, and their console is...lackluster. The only reason it's still there is the cold truth that I've spent all my time playing Dead Rising 3 on it, while I'm yet to play much of anything on the PS4.
4: That's hard to say. Depends if they just pay Sega to make it, in which case they'd probably want the Yakuza guys, Atlus, or possibly Sumo Digital. If Sony did it internally, they'd probably throw JapanStudio at it so Yu Suzuki and Mark Cerny could work on it.
AdamKoralik
I forgot about Atlus! Yes, that'd probably be the 2nd best choice if an internal Sega studio were to do it, though they might put more of a traditional RPG spin on Shenmue. Sumo I have doubts about their ability to handle a game on the scope of Shenmue 3 (or at least, the scope that it should have). They've mostly worked on arcade-type sports/racing games, and though I love the Sonic Racing games, they definitely don't take the same kind of developer as Shenmue does. And yes, Japan Studio does seem like the most likely fit from Sony - if only the Ico guys would finally release The Last Guardian so they could get working on Shenmue 3! ;)
Lakster37 I would hope that whatever studio was involved, Yu Suzuki would be allowed to guide them.
I hate to say it but I agree alot with what adam's saying even though I will be buying an xbox one after the price drop and removal of kinect
But i wouldn't say Microsoft is completely "out", even though they do own the IP, Killer Instinct was in development hell and was for 17 years. Even people working in M$ said it would never happen and it is also a fighting that has to compete with Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat. I know that M$ isn't greatly excited about the Japan market but a game like Shenmue coinciding with a Japan release date of a resigned and sleeker Xbox One would do wonders for the perception of the console over there and if sales were good, it would also get M$ to broaden themselves out more by making games to appeal to Japan as well, they made some effort with Lost Odyssey and Last Remnant but they need to go further and make Gears/Halo budgets for a JRPG or any game that caters to that market, Shenmue would be that bridge so it can always still be done
I just want to see Shenmue released like everybody else, Ryo is still trapped in that damn cave
Phil Spencer confirmed Microsoft is out of the running for Shenmue.
I read the article (paused it so i could get every little detail) and he didn't say they would never make it, just the fact that they want to focus on their own IP's and at this point, who could blame them? Xbox One has taken major flak and bad press ever since it's announcement and M$ have been notoriously criticized for partnering up with 3rd parties and not having enough franchises besides Gears and Halo. But this move would make the most sense especially considering the fact that the Xbox One will get a release in Japan and that this game is the most perfect scenario and demanded one to increase the perception of Xbox One in Japan as well as worldwide. Sony is a foothold there so of course they can do it and most likely succeed but M$ is a global business that needs to succeed in every market as well as japan, no matter how long it takes. You may have a compelling argument that $ony makes the most sense and in often times i do agree but I also believe M$ makes just as much sense, especially with their current predicament with the fans and getting the general public on their side again. And in UK Xbox Magazine, Shenmue was the most requested Xbox One game as well so $ony isn't the only one
Whether you like it or not, $ony right now is the king of the mountain and therefore will most likely not feel the pressure of putting out a franchise that would exist primarily to please a fanbase but be looked at like a risk financially, they are already seen as the heroes but M$ is desperate and need a win, something that can ally people back to the brand and erase the bad press and Shenmue is the best way to do that coinciding with the launch of the Xbox One in Japan, M$ would hit a home run
Plus Shenmue 2 was released for Xbox and regardless of the backhanded politics regarding that, it would be a thousand times easier for M$ to make a HD re-release of that game and Shenmue 1.
2Good2BeTrue45 Read it for yourself: twitter.com/XboxP3/status/429479278292385792
AdamKoralik I already did and pointed that out already, did you not read my extensive detailed rant? lol
also M$ announced Xbox One is launching in Japan and that they are very excited for one of their game reveals at TGS so you never know
I agree with everything you said but I do worry about the future of Shenmue. Sony is desperate which could result in them resorting to all sorts of different tactics from going after old IPs for exclusives to... who knows what. Plus, there is that doomsday speculation that Sony might be bankrupt in a few years. I doubt that will come to pass but it is a bit disconcerting nonetheless.
Still, it could be worse. Shenmue 3 could be put into full production with a system in place that allows the fans to directly contribute to the development process of the game. You can vote on art ideas, submit feedback to the devs about what elements you want to be kept intact from the original two titles, and see plenty of screen shots showing how the game is evolving graphically. Yet out of nowhere Sega would completely kill the project just when development was accelerating towards completion. This would then lead to the fan base asking Sega directly why they would do such a thing and Sega would respond by stating that all of you were not devoted enough Shenmue fans.
Yeah… I would not wish that on anyone. There is still hope for the Shenmue franchise but Shenmue 3 really needs to happen this console generation since I’m not confident there will be a 9th.
I doubt we'd ever see a crowd sourced option.
Thanks for watching by the way.
AdamKoralik Yes, Yu Suzuki has a history of maintaining tight control over his projects which, to be honest, has often worked out well. Too bad Sega has him sitting in a corner sorting the mail or fetching people their coffee rather than directing awesome games.
Regardless, thanks for making the video. It was a great watch as always.
Thorolund Happy to do it, thanks for watching.
Im personally not interested in an HD remake as I have them on my Dreamcast. I just want the third game. If said game comes with 1&2 it would be a nice bonus but I wouldn't expect it.
At this stage it's too late to get just the third game. One and two would need to be rereleased, but carefully.
It must be remembered that Shenmue 3 will NOT conclude the series. Yu Suzuki has said that it will take at least 4, preferably 5 games to tell the full story of Shenmue. If the sequels are made, Yu Suzuki NEEDS to be the project lead, or else the games will be very disappointing.
I get your point, and I think it's very good. However, each of the games names are sort of one shot games no? Where Shenmue is a series that never finished...Not sure if that changes anything, but who knows. I guess we shall see what the future holds =(
One shots? I listed games with pre-existing sequels. Literally none of them (not even Nights) has only one title in the series.
AdamKoralik I mean that the story arch isn't as big as Shenmue, one shot in terms that this big story arch needs to be finished. But as I said, I agree and understand your point.
I just want shenmue 1 and 2 and 3 if it comes out on HD.
You can choose the console 'cause i still not have a next gen console.
XD
Sony recently funded Street Fighter 5 and made it a console exclusive to PS4 as well as PC. Is it possible for Shenmue to get the same treatment?
Nintendo has been trying to seem more "hardcore" with bayonetta another Sega title. They should release it. Plus it will cost less to make for wii u as opposed to ps4 and it's next gen graphics. Plus expectations are lower on the wii u. There are too many realistic open world games on ps4 to get non shen fans excited.
I like the police siren at 8:21
Personally, the first thing we should do is abandon the thought that Sega alone will push this product. As stated with the examples of Sonic Adventure, Space Channel 5, Jet Grind Radio, and Nights, the market is available, but Sega hasn't acted upon this.
To get some sort of headway would require either an independent team or a subsidiary which is idling to do some work, present it it, leak it, and test the waters. This will only be good enough to grant some form of green light.
Ideally, I would like somebody like Team Kojima to develop it, how ever this is grossly unrealistic due to their resource allocation for current and future projects.
Second point always will be funding. Several videos back, the concept of KickStarter was visited, and yes it is working for Mighty No 9, but the team already had the means to start some form of development, and while it's billed as the spiritual successor to MegaMan, the game itself has no direct ties to an already registered and trademarked title.
I would like an opinion though, last year Sega purchased Index Co who owns Atlus. Perhaps we're seeking the wrong group?
It is my opinion that Atlus would be a great developer, but being owned by Sega means they get access to Sega's IPs and money, but it's highly unlikely they can spearhead new projects. Shenmue especially.
If Sony put up the cash for Sega to make it, then Atlus might fit like a glove.
Adam, Sega has lost copyrights for a Shenmue! Check out the news!
I heard sir.
Two Ryo Status! Holy crap! :O
Regular and limited edition, had to get both.