Shenmue III May Debut on Switch and Xbox

ININ Games' acquisition of Shenmue III's publishing rights sparks hope for console expansion. This development opens the door for potential releases on Xbox and Nintendo Switch, exciting fans who've long awaited a port. The article explores this possibility and its implications for the future of the Shenmue franchise.

Shenmue III on Xbox and Switch? A Real Possibility

ININ Games, known for bringing classic arcade titles to modern platforms, now holds the publishing rights to Shenmue III. Originally a PlayStation 4 exclusive (released in 2019, also available on PC), this acquisition significantly increases the chances of a wider release. While no official announcements have been made regarding Xbox and Switch ports, the publisher's history suggests this is a strong possibility.

The game, currently available digitally and physically on PS4 and PC, could see a similar multi-platform release. This would expand Shenmue III's reach to a much larger audience.

Ryo's Journey Continues

Originally funded through a successful Kickstarter campaign, Shenmue III continues Ryo Hazuki and Shenhua's quest for revenge. The game, built using Unreal Engine 4, blends classic visuals with modern graphics, creating a captivating experience. Despite a mostly positive reception (76% on Steam), some players have voiced concerns about controller-only gameplay and late Steam key delivery. However, the demand for an Xbox and Switch port remains strong.

A Shenmue Trilogy on the Horizon?

ININ Games' acquisition could also pave the way for a Shenmue trilogy release. The publisher's track record of reviving classic games, including their current collaboration with HAMSTER Corporation on various Taito titles, strengthens this possibility. While unconfirmed, the potential for a bundled release of Shenmue I, II, and III is certainly intriguing, especially given that Shenmue I and II are already available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One. The future of the Shenmue series looks brighter than ever.