Shenmue

Having just completed one of Yu Suzuki's other masterpieces in Shenmue I & II, I wanted to discuss with any other potential fans the first two games and the game(s) to come in the future.

It's amazing that even having finished the game multiple times, upon replaying it this year I still get tingles down the spine at the climax and key moments of both games. It's so great to see features in the game that still aren't replicated in most games today and the matchless atmosphere of Yokosuka, Wan Chai and Kowloon. Each area unique and utterly engrossing.

The soundtrack is still one of the most impressive I've had the pleasure to listen to, some of the greatest graphics and design in any game I've played and a captivating story thanks to the atmosphere and characters within the world.

I'm really excited for Shenmue III, eighteen years after the fact. How about you?

 

It's definitely worth playing, the games are pretty unique to this day, and do some amazing things. They're just really fun experiences too IMO. Just don't go in expecting Yakuza, it's a wildly different game.

I'm really glad to hear it's re-sparked your interest! I definitely think there's a lot to love about the games.

Playing Shenmue 2 for the first time will be a treat, it's such a great followup, and so distinct yet familiar. The atmosphere and pace changes quite a bit. Even the little things like the colour pallet used for both games makes them stand out so much from each-other and gives you a different feel for each game and location.