ININ Games Acquires Shenmue III Publishing Rights: Xbox and Switch Ports a Real Possibility?
The long-awaited possibility of Shenmue III arriving on additional platforms is now a tangible prospect, thanks to ININ Games' recent acquisition of the game's publishing rights. This development has ignited excitement amongst fans, particularly those on Xbox and Nintendo Switch, who've long hoped for a port.
Expansion to Xbox and Switch:
Originally a PlayStation 4 exclusive (released in 2019), Shenmue III's availability was limited to PS4 and PC. ININ Games, renowned for its multi-platform releases of classic arcade titles, could potentially broaden Shenmue III's reach significantly. The acquisition strongly suggests the possibility of future releases on Xbox and Nintendo Switch consoles.
Shenmue III's Continued Journey:
Following a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2015, which raised over $6 million, Shenmue III delivered on its promise, continuing Ryo and Shenhua's quest for justice. The game, built using Unreal Engine 4, blends classic aesthetics with modern graphics, creating a captivating experience. While the Steam version currently holds a "Mostly Positive" rating (76%), some user feedback highlights minor issues like controller-only play and delayed Steam key delivery. Despite this, the demand for Xbox and Switch ports remains high.
A Shenmue Trilogy on the Horizon?
ININ Games' track record, which includes collaborations with HAMSTER Corporation on re-releases of classic Taito games (like the upcoming Rastan Saga and Runark bundle), hints at a possible broader strategy. The acquisition of Shenmue III's publishing rights could pave the way for a complete Shenmue trilogy release under their banner. Shenmue I and II are already available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One, making this a potentially lucrative and highly anticipated venture. While unconfirmed, the possibility of a unified trilogy release adds another layer of excitement to this significant development.
