Yu Suzuki Wants Shenmue 4 To Be More Accessible For New Fans

Shenmue III was a distant dream. The latest Shenmue II entry was released in 1998. It took 18 years. Fans remained uncertain for almost 20 years whether their brawler would return. It was then that the impossible became possible: Yu Suzuki’s Shenmue III Kickstarter campaign raised more than $7million and attracted over 69,000 supporters. Ryo Hazuki’s third chapter in his revenge quest received mixed criticism and was “fine” in terms of financial performance. Suzuki expressed enthusiasm about Shenmue IV, but wanted the game to be easier accessible for all.

Based on VGCSuzuki talked about Shenmue 4 at an event held in Yokosuka. Yokosuka is the location of the story. Suzuki explained that Shenmue IV was made with the long-standing fans in mind. However, this might have led to alienation for some of the younger players. Although the overall reaction to the game was positive, Suzuki believed that it wasn’t an ideal entry point. Suzuki hopes that Shenmue IV will appeal to an even wider audience. However, at this time, “no concrete plans” are in place.

“With Shenmue 3, I really responded to the fans’ voices, so I wasn’t necessarily thinking about making any money,” Suzuki announced at the event. “But since I’m running a company, I have to think about what can sell if I continue. I’ve been seriously talking about it over and over again.”

Embracer Group’s parent company Deep Silver published a statement regarding Shenmue III’s financial performance in 2020 at an earnings presentation. Lars Wingefors CEO stated that the third title was a core niche product. 

Shenmue IV is not yet in development. Suzuki still expressed interest in the series. In other news, Square Enix sold Crystal Dynamics, Eidos-Montréal, And More, Including Tomb Raider IP, To Embracer Group. 

Do you want to be a part of the next Shenmue-related game? Your thoughts about Shenmue III. Leave your comments below.

[Source: Famitsu via VGC]