Shenmue III Switch and Xbox Port Now a Real Possibility

In an exciting turn of events for fans of the Shenmue series, ININ Games has secured the publishing rights for Shenmue III, potentially paving the way for its release on additional platforms such as Xbox and Nintendo Switch. This development could significantly expand the reach of the game and reignite interest in the iconic franchise.

ININ Games Acquires Shenmue III’s Publishing Rights

In a major announcement, ININ Games has officially acquired the publishing rights for Shenmue III, sparking enthusiasm among fans. Originally launched as a PlayStation exclusive in 2019, this move opens up possibilities for the game to reach new audiences on Xbox and Switch consoles. While specific details about the ports are still under wraps, ININ Games, known for bringing arcade classics to modern platforms, is well-positioned to broaden Shenmue III's availability.

Currently, Shenmue III is available on PS4 and PC in both digital and physical formats. With ININ Games at the helm, fans are hopeful that the game will soon be accessible on more platforms, enhancing its appeal and accessibility.

The Journey Continues in Shenmue III

The journey of Shenmue III began with a successful Kickstarter campaign in July 2015, which raised over $6.3 million, far surpassing its $2 million goal. This overwhelming support demonstrated the enduring interest in the series. Following its campaign, Shenmue III was released on PS4 and PC, and now, with ININ Games' acquisition, there's potential for it to reach even more platforms.

In Shenmue III, players follow the continued adventures of Ryo and Shenhua as they delve deeper into enemy territory to confront the Chi You Men cartel and face off against Lan Di. Developed using Unreal Engine 4, the game combines classic aesthetics with modern graphics, creating an immersive and vibrant world for players to explore.

On Steam, Shenmue III holds a Mostly Positive rating with a 76% approval score. While many fans have embraced the game, some have expressed concerns about its current state, such as the necessity of using a controller and delays in receiving Steam keys. Despite these issues, the prospect of an Xbox and Nintendo Switch port remains a highly anticipated possibility among the community.

Possibility of Shenmue Trilogy

The acquisition of Shenmue III's publishing rights by ININ Games could also lead to the release of the entire Shenmue trilogy under their banner. ININ Games has a track record of reviving classic games on modern platforms, currently working with HAMSTER Corporation to release Taito's 80s and 90s titles, such as the Rastan Saga series and Runark, in a physical and digital bundle set for release on December 10.

Shenmue I and II, released in August 2018, are available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One. Although there's no official word yet on a Shenmue trilogy, the recent acquisition suggests that ININ Games might be planning to bring all three games together, offering fans a comprehensive experience of the beloved series.