User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1112 Ratings

User score distribution:
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  1. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Make no mistake those of you who are looking for a game that transcends time and is basically an ASMR, look no further. The Shenmue series, tells a story of a teenager who lost everything and is forced to become a man on his 18th birthday, when his father is murdered right in front of him. These trials and tribulations, bring our young hero from Japan all the way to China, where he is setMake no mistake those of you who are looking for a game that transcends time and is basically an ASMR, look no further. The Shenmue series, tells a story of a teenager who lost everything and is forced to become a man on his 18th birthday, when his father is murdered right in front of him. These trials and tribulations, bring our young hero from Japan all the way to China, where he is set on a path to set the wrong things right. From Legendary Creator Yu Suzuki Creator of titles like Outrun, Space Harrier, Virtua Racing, Daytona USA, After Burner, Virtua Fighter, Fighters Megamix, Fighting Vipers, F355 Challenge and many more. Took his team and gave a sequel 18 years in the making, you get to experience a game locked in a time capsule. Before the dawn of over stimulating fps, and flashy games. Shenmue brought you FREE-Full Reactive Eyes Entertainment. Enjoy this title, and remember, "It appears that Lan-Di will try to make us of both mirrors" Master Chen Expand
  2. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    for me its the best game ever! Shenmue 3 brought me back from my "gaming retirement" =)))
  3. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    El simulador de vida perfecto. Esto es un sueño hecho realidad y no cambia para nada su esencia de siempre. La magia de regresar al pasado, volver a la infancia y hacer presente lo que de todo parece ser ya hace mucho tiempo. Gracias Shenmue por todo lo que has supuesto en mi vida.
  4. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    The game that everyone has been waiting for 18 years ! It is clear that it's not the same kind of games as the "AAA" games but I'm glad it remains true to it's predecessors. I think that everyone can enjoy Shenmue 3.
  5. Nov 20, 2019
    9
    Great game! This Is what fans wanted! Wonderful in every moment, superb gameplay, it's always interesting. Thank you, Suzuki-san!
  6. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Incredible atmosphere, quirky characters, addictive gameplay loop, the best Shenmue yet
  7. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    If you are a fan of this series you will LOVE this game. It oozes with the charm that made me not only fall in love with the first two games! If you are new to the series there is still plenty of fun to be had for such a low budget title! Cheers to another entry in my favorite series of all time!
  8. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    The best shenmue ever...

    The best of year. Congratulantions................
  9. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Ive enjoyed the 1 and 2 so much in the past... This game has the same feeling, i backed and do not regret ;p
  10. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue 3 is a epic 90's throwback. This game made me feel exactly as i did the first day playing Shenmue. Everything from the sound effects when picking to everything else that is meticulously re created and feels just like the originals.
  11. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    The game is everything I have been waiting for since the originals on Dreamcast. It’s a pity it never got a chance on Segas machine :( truly a work of art and I can’t wait for the next 2 games to complete the story. Buy this game and live a once in a lifetime gaming experience.
  12. Nov 20, 2019
    0
    As a Kickstarter backer at a high level, I can say without exaggeration that Shenmue III has been the single greatest disappointment in my decades of gaming.
  13. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Es genial, la musica es preciosa, la jugabilidad, impecable, me encanta al fin podre cerrar con esta trilogia, despues de tanto tiempo.
  14. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Probably one of the most impressive Kickstarter'd video games of all time. Anyone who says it has PS2-quality graphics is insane. It is actually very beautiful in many areas.
  15. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue III has some technical issues, but its essence is still top-notch. If you're a fan of the series, this game is a must-play (but you probably know it already).
  16. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    el juego es maravilloso, calca completamente el amor que le teniamos a las versiones anteriores y mantiene el sabor a ellos. este juego esta hecho para los fans que querian mas. es bueno tener de nuevo shenmue despues de tantos años
  17. Nov 20, 2019
    8
    I just played it on PC.

    The graphics are really great, remember that this game needed kickstarter to be released, so It's really great in terms of budget/quality. The sound its similar to the original ones, but with quality increased. The story still great. The story was the point that make a lot players get in love with this videogame. Gameplay fells the same as 18 years ago.
    I just played it on PC.

    The graphics are really great, remember that this game needed kickstarter to be released, so It's really great in terms of budget/quality.

    The sound its similar to the original ones, but with quality increased.

    The story still great. The story was the point that make a lot players get in love with this videogame.

    Gameplay fells the same as 18 years ago. This could be a bad point for new players of the saga, but fans of the original saga are going to fell in love again.

    This game never meant to be a tripe AAA video game. This game was supported for fans, and It has been made for fans.

    Enjoy the game, not the critics or rates!.
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  18. Nov 20, 2019
    9
    La digne suite du 2, bien que techniquement daté, la magie opère toujours. N'hésitez pas à vous lancer dans cette incroyable histoire !
  19. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue III is finally here, a game for the fans and newcomers to enjoy the story of Ryo Hazuki a boy from Japan on a quest to seek revenge for his father murder by the man called Lan Di. I wanna thank the community for never giving up and Yu for believing in us and giving us the third game of Shenmue.
  20. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    What Yu Suzuki did with a kickstarter game is unbelievable! The game is not a triple A, but it has all the qualities a game needs to be fun! I love it.
  21. Nov 20, 2019
    0
    Looks like a Playstation 2 game and plays like a Playstation 2 game. An insult to the backers.
  22. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    La espera valió la pena, todo está aquí, la experiencia de progresión , los minigames , los diálogos que llevan a situaciones, los gráficos precisositas .Gracias Suzuky San!♥️
  23. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    10/10 IGN tiene las animaciones del FIFA 2090 y son una pasada dan ganas de pegarle a un calvo nintendero
  24. Nov 20, 2019
    8
    Shenmue 3 is an oddity. The art styles are inconsistent, the controls are bizarre, the stamina system will have you pulling your hair out, the combat seems to have limited scope for mastery and feels like a button masher throughout, the voice acting is jank at best. But somehow the game contains a magic and a charm which can’t be denied.

    There’s something about starting a day in a video
    Shenmue 3 is an oddity. The art styles are inconsistent, the controls are bizarre, the stamina system will have you pulling your hair out, the combat seems to have limited scope for mastery and feels like a button masher throughout, the voice acting is jank at best. But somehow the game contains a magic and a charm which can’t be denied.

    There’s something about starting a day in a video game with a part time job before you get down to business that brings the world alive. All you’re doing is playing a timing mini game (sometimes very rudimentary), but it doesn’t feel like that. Somehow, the purpose (making money) underpinned by Ryo’s story (finding his father’s killer) make you think that this is an important activity to help Ryo on his way. Shenmue 3 is full of those kinds of experiences.

    Getting to know the denizens of the game has never been more satisfying. In the opening village you quickly learn who has what kind of information. The town gossip can tell you where everyone lives, the martial arts experts can tell you where to train, the old man can tell you the history of the place. It all fits together in a coherent way, and before long you will know exactly who to talk to to find things out because you have familiarised yourself with the game’s environment and gotten to know characters who all have their own names are are more fleshed out than the NPCs of pretty much most other games.

    By no means a perfect game, and struggling with the balancing act of succeeding a 2001 title and a limited budget, Shenmue 3 is nonetheless a fantastic game. And ultimately, that’s what games are about; fantastic experiences. If you can adapt to the controls and allow yourself to get taken on it’s journey, Shenmue 3 is a fantastic experience.
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  25. Nov 20, 2019
    0
    Es un gran juegazo, no hagais caso a las review de la prensa ya que falsean la realidad, merece el precio que tiene.
  26. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue 3 as well as the two previous games have one important aspect that no other game has. It’s not the graphics, its not the gameplay, its not the music, it is something above all these. All the above aspects exist in ordee to create a unique feeling for the game where you can’t find anywhere else. To all the people out there stop experiencing games for what they are instead try toShenmue 3 as well as the two previous games have one important aspect that no other game has. It’s not the graphics, its not the gameplay, its not the music, it is something above all these. All the above aspects exist in ordee to create a unique feeling for the game where you can’t find anywhere else. To all the people out there stop experiencing games for what they are instead try to feel the games. Shenmue is like the parthenon that stands thousands of years at the same place reminding an era. Shenmue is the parthenon of video games. Congratulations to ysnet , deep silver , shibuya productions. All the people who love video games should be happy about Shenmue 3 and united and instead of argue with each other let us all find in our hearts what is this feeling that will make all gamers friends and united. Please try to feel and enjoy this game. enjoy the game. Expand
  27. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Game lives up to all the E3 hype and I can see why fans were going mad over this, not many games like this out there, outstanding game well deserving high score considering this game was crowd funded, a must buy for martial arts fans
  28. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    If you a shenmue fan then you will love it and for new players you need to understand the story then play it. It's not in action game that you shot everything or destroy thing's around you it's a game that you need to ask search and train to get to the next location.
  29. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    After 18 years, a kickstarter and lots of drama over the development and marketing, the eternal sequel that was never to be is finally released...

    Yu Suzuki has done it again. Despite the budget constraints, the developers managed to craft a fully fledged Shenmue experience that will delight fans. It expands on the original gameplay of its prequels and adds lots of details and new
    After 18 years, a kickstarter and lots of drama over the development and marketing, the eternal sequel that was never to be is finally released...

    Yu Suzuki has done it again. Despite the budget constraints, the developers managed to craft a fully fledged Shenmue experience that will delight fans. It expands on the original gameplay of its prequels and adds lots of details and new elements.

    Gameplay is mostly the same and the usual Shenmue quirks like the funny dub adds to its charm.
    Players that like a different pace than most games for a change should definitely try this. The game encourages you to dive into the mundane aspects of life with a nice sense of reward. There's tons of things you can do if you don't feel like progressing in the story. The game builds up slowly but the absurd attention to detail will never cease to amaze you.
    Expand
  30. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Amazing and unlike anything you have played. Immerse yourself in a piece of art.
  31. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    A gorgeous, faithful successor to the classic titles released almost two decades ago. It evokes the same exact feeling I had playing the originals back then. Any Shenmue die hard will be in heaven playing this game. I only wish they dug deeper on the combat which is still more than fine. If they really focused on the fighting to make it somewhat comparable to the AAA titles of the day,A gorgeous, faithful successor to the classic titles released almost two decades ago. It evokes the same exact feeling I had playing the originals back then. Any Shenmue die hard will be in heaven playing this game. I only wish they dug deeper on the combat which is still more than fine. If they really focused on the fighting to make it somewhat comparable to the AAA titles of the day, say, with its own multiplayer game modes, it may have incentived a bigger audience to buy the game and helped lead to future titles. Expand
  32. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    This game is the perfect continuation of the story of Shenmue. You have a town to explore, people to met, gambling and jobs, capsule toys and a lot of training/fighting. If you love the previous game, you will love this one for sure. Thank you Yu Susuki san!
  33. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    It is shenmue style. I have been waiting for 18 years. I think shenmue 3 is full spec.
  34. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Gracias y más gracias.
    Por haber creado esta enorme continuación.
    Está a la altura de las expectativas, teniendo en cuenta la dificultad que ha conllevado su desarrollo.
    JUEGAZO que será de culto como los dos anteriores.
  35. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    After 18 years this feels like the game fans have been waiting for. The graphical improvements from the Dreamcast era are a welcome addition, and other than a different of fighting mechanic (which isn’t a bad thing in my opinion) this feels like a true continuation of a classic series.
  36. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    This is just what I've been waiting for since I played Shenmue, 15 years ago. As usual, the music and landscapes are amazing.
  37. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Yu Suzuki sí lo volvió a hacer, a diferencia de otros juegos que evidentemente reciben NOTAS PAGADAS, como Yu Suzuki no paga, pues la prensa le ataca y dice que "el videojuego es anticuado"... Solo puedo decir que en 10 horas de juego he disfrutado más que en los últimos 7 años, no existe ninguna aventura con la magia sonora, de trama, carisma que tiene shenmue cuya 3ª parte es tan buenaYu Suzuki sí lo volvió a hacer, a diferencia de otros juegos que evidentemente reciben NOTAS PAGADAS, como Yu Suzuki no paga, pues la prensa le ataca y dice que "el videojuego es anticuado"... Solo puedo decir que en 10 horas de juego he disfrutado más que en los últimos 7 años, no existe ninguna aventura con la magia sonora, de trama, carisma que tiene shenmue cuya 3ª parte es tan buena como las anteriores, y deseando estoy por ver 10 horas más de este juegazo. La única razón por la que le pueden criticar es porque "son graficos casi de PS3", vale... eso nadie lo discute pero el aspecto visual aún así es BUENO y la calidad y profundidad de un juego NO SE MIDE POR SUS GRÁFICOS aunque algunos junta letras pagados de la prensa no lo crean. Shenmue es adictivo desde que lo empiezas. Yo llevo 10 horas y en cuanto vuelva a casa y pueda lo volveré a jugar. Se lo recomiendo sin duda a toda persona que le gusten los videojuegos de aventuras, no existe una mejor en cuanto a carisma, trama, banda sonora... Una pasada, pena que los gráficos no puedan ser más perfectos, pero con todo el aspecto visual de los paisajes es tan fantástico como el de por ejemplo Zelda en Switch, donde más pierde visualmente es en la expresividad corporal y sobre todo facial, pero me niego a quitarle puntuación a un juego que te TRANSMITE tanto cuando hartos estamos de tanto mata mata con jueguitos de luces, disparos online y que no aporta nada. Expand
  38. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A dream come true after 18 years support the game guys dont let it die again....Thank you Yu Suzuki Expand
  39. Nov 20, 2019
    0
    An insult to the backers. I spent $100 when it started on the kickstart, then I had to change to PS4 version cause PC changed from Steam to Epic (a really nice backstab), and on top of that we don't even get the pre-order bonuses that regular people get buying the game.
    We made the game possible and treat backers as sh*t.
  40. Nov 20, 2019
    9
    For fans of the series, this is a true Shenmue experience. Everything that you loved about the game has stayed intact. I was worried that the game was try to conform to modern standard but what I received is a traditional experience that fans will love. "You know what the great about Shenmue is? I keep getting older and it stays the same". Fans will really enjoy the game though newcomersFor fans of the series, this is a true Shenmue experience. Everything that you loved about the game has stayed intact. I was worried that the game was try to conform to modern standard but what I received is a traditional experience that fans will love. "You know what the great about Shenmue is? I keep getting older and it stays the same". Fans will really enjoy the game though newcomers will probably say to themselves "What the hell is this?" Over all, this is what I wanted and this is what i got. Thank you, Yu Suzuki! Expand
  41. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. El juego perfecto para continuar la historia perfecta. Es un título desarrollado para los fans de Shenmue I y II, con una jugabilidad calcada a la de los títulos de antaño y unos gráficos adaptados a las nuevas consolas Expand
  42. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    It is a very welcome addition into the series. For kickstarter i was expecting a lot less but this was satisfying to play and felt like the original.
  43. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Only true shenmue players will appreciate this game. The graphics aren't AAA but still beautiful and captures the old shenmue feel. Plus the controls have been modernized this is a must buy!
  44. Nov 20, 2019
    1
    Looks like it's coming from 1997. Maybe only a true fan can barely enjoyed it.
  45. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Todo lo que llevo 18 años esperando. No podría pedirle nada más al juego. Finalmente, la saga continúa.
  46. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue 3 his music his history his fighting system and excellent graphics. Keeps his esscence intact.Some technical problems that can ve solved with an update such as the synchronization of some melodies and loading errors. Shenmue 3 an excellent game for those who are new in the saga, and Masterpiece for those who expected it for years.
  47. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    I wanted to see what the hype was about and picked up shenmue 1 and 2. I found the game to be beautiful and cannot believe this game was made in an era of when we were still playing 2D games. I loved the story and how unique the game was so grabbed Shenmue 3. It is a perfect blend of keeping the shenmue soul while adapting to modern game play. Absolutely breathtaking. I recommend peopleI wanted to see what the hype was about and picked up shenmue 1 and 2. I found the game to be beautiful and cannot believe this game was made in an era of when we were still playing 2D games. I loved the story and how unique the game was so grabbed Shenmue 3. It is a perfect blend of keeping the shenmue soul while adapting to modern game play. Absolutely breathtaking. I recommend people try this rare gem as not many games are made with so much thought put into them. Try the shenmue trilogy you will not be disappointed. Expand
  48. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Absolutely a worthy successor to Yu Suzuki's magnum opus. Maintains all of the qualities of the first two entries while providing some quality of life improvements to help ease newcomers into the franchise. May be a tough jumping off point for those unfamiliar with the series, but anyone who has had the pleasure of playing the first two games will find this an absolute joy to experience.Absolutely a worthy successor to Yu Suzuki's magnum opus. Maintains all of the qualities of the first two entries while providing some quality of life improvements to help ease newcomers into the franchise. May be a tough jumping off point for those unfamiliar with the series, but anyone who has had the pleasure of playing the first two games will find this an absolute joy to experience. Anyone who has an interest in the history of gaming and the origin of what we now call the "open world" genre owes it to themselves to check this out. Expand
  49. Nov 20, 2019
    9
    10 hours in and its definately a true shenmue game, graphics arent bad, they seem a little outdated but it doesnt affect the gameplay by far and what do you expect from a kickstarter game? Voice acting is what you'd expect but it gets better throughout. Story gets even more interesting the more and more you get through the game. Combat is fun and sparring with allies and levelling up moves10 hours in and its definately a true shenmue game, graphics arent bad, they seem a little outdated but it doesnt affect the gameplay by far and what do you expect from a kickstarter game? Voice acting is what you'd expect but it gets better throughout. Story gets even more interesting the more and more you get through the game. Combat is fun and sparring with allies and levelling up moves is definately my favourite part. I look forward to progressing on further. Expand
  50. Nov 20, 2019
    0
    This is what I waited 17 years for? It's so bad, kickstarter was a fraud. Hope its the last one.
  51. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    After waiting 18 years to play this sequel of my favorite videogame i only needed 2 hours into the game to feel that this game wont disapoint any shenmue fan, the graphics re beautiful specially the environment, the main characters very well designed, the music is epic an the story intriguing as usual, the gameplay is a classic shenmue with some improvements such as the combat and theAfter waiting 18 years to play this sequel of my favorite videogame i only needed 2 hours into the game to feel that this game wont disapoint any shenmue fan, the graphics re beautiful specially the environment, the main characters very well designed, the music is epic an the story intriguing as usual, the gameplay is a classic shenmue with some improvements such as the combat and the exploration mechanics. A truly masterpiece everyone such give a chance. Thanks to Yu Suzuki and the community! Expand
  52. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    And the miracle begins ......... Shenmue 3 is here (this is unreal) and keep the magic alive Gorgeous artistic , the finest gameplay and AWESOME environments ........
  53. Nov 19, 2019
    8
    After the long long wait, it's finally here. It is indeed Shenmue at it's core, and it's beautiful.
  54. Nov 20, 2019
    9
    Shenmue has always been a unique series, and while it was a revolution for the gaming industry back in the 1999, Shenmue III budget isn't nearly as close as the one for the original games. Despite that, Yu Suzuki and Ys Net managed to craft a beautiful and authentic game that keeps at core what makes this series such an incredible experience while taking advantage of modern technologies.Shenmue has always been a unique series, and while it was a revolution for the gaming industry back in the 1999, Shenmue III budget isn't nearly as close as the one for the original games. Despite that, Yu Suzuki and Ys Net managed to craft a beautiful and authentic game that keeps at core what makes this series such an incredible experience while taking advantage of modern technologies. Shenmue III is a love letter to the fans but nonetheless a very attractive game for anyone looking for a different vision of gaming.

    The story goes on!
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  55. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    So glad I discovered the series this year in time for a new classic. Recommended for both old and new players.
  56. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue 3 is great, Yu Suzuki gave me all I wanted. The Shenmue-Feeling is alive again, it feels like in the good old days.
  57. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    For a newcomer to the game i feel this might not be for them. But for me as a fan of the whole saga for the last 19 years and on the budget Yu Suzuki had to create this game, it is everything I wanted. The voice dialog, the setting, the music, everything about it brings that nostalgia feel back from the original titles. It wont be everyone's cup of tea, but for me it is what it is and I love it.
  58. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Saturated with charm and personality, Shenmue finally returns to us after almost two decades. Beautiful environments, fascinating NPCs and an engaging storyline. A seamless transition from the earlier games while also building greatly on the combat, training, exploration and trading aspects.
  59. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue lll exceeded all my expectations. It feels like mixture of modern and nostalgic feelings. I never doubted in Yu Suzuki. My mark is excellent!
  60. Nov 20, 2019
    0
    Graphics are outdated, animations are very stiff.
    Voice acting is horrible.

    This game is a waste of money, that's the truth.
  61. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    What an amazing game. It just felt where i left of.
    They really exceeded my expectation. Beautiful scenery en character interaction for this tight budget.
    I really hope the sequel will be backed by SEGA en they will invest much more, because its amazing what they did with the tight budget. I was thinking of all the games i played on the PS4, but this is just on of those games you just
    What an amazing game. It just felt where i left of.
    They really exceeded my expectation. Beautiful scenery en character interaction for this tight budget.
    I really hope the sequel will be backed by SEGA en they will invest much more, because its amazing what they did with the tight budget.
    I was thinking of all the games i played on the PS4, but this is just on of those games you just want to keep on playing and easily in my top 3 games. For all the fans: YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS!!!
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  62. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    I was mislead by strange character design first. But when I get to control Ryo, I felt exactly same perfect experience as first two parts of the Great Saga. Just try the game, it's special.
  63. Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Great continuation of the series that more people should play, very original plays and runs great, fantastic story
  64. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Exactly what I waited for. Brilliant. A good return to form for the series which has been away far too long.
  65. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Thank you for all Yu Suzuki. You have fulfilled many players dreams and mine too.
    An authentic shenmue made by fans for fans.
  66. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Feels like a natural evolution of the original games. Plays and feels like a modern game, while retaining all of the charm and essence of the originals. This is everything I hoped it would be!
  67. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    As a long time fan this is exactly what I wanted. I had Shenmue preordered when I was a kid and this game brings that same excitement back that I had then. If you enjoyed 1 or 2 then this should be a perfect fit for you. Great step forward.
  68. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Everything a shenmue fan asked for and more. Simply amazing. Takes me back to the good old days of video gaming, but yet manages to stay fresh and modern.
  69. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Its faithful to the fans and that is all that matters really. Yes the mechanics will feel outdated to players outside, but the game wasn't made for them. They made a decision to appeal to the old fans and I'm happy for that and will gladly support another kickstarter if necessary for Shenmue 4.
  70. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Great game! The original experience at Shenmue game. Thanks Suzuki-San. Played on PS4
  71. Nov 19, 2019
    9
    I have played very little of Shenmue 3 till now. Having played on Dreamcast 2 decades ago and then remaster on ps4, as a fan I find this game great. As many would have mentioned that the feel is very much of shenmue and why we loved the game in the first place. My rating is for the fans of the series as I would call this game for fans only and for us it delivers despite it very low budgetI have played very little of Shenmue 3 till now. Having played on Dreamcast 2 decades ago and then remaster on ps4, as a fan I find this game great. As many would have mentioned that the feel is very much of shenmue and why we loved the game in the first place. My rating is for the fans of the series as I would call this game for fans only and for us it delivers despite it very low budget compared to modern games. Expand
  72. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Magic in all aspects, this qualification is personal, I find myself living those wonderful moments that 18 years ago shenmue gave us to many, it is a cult, relaxing and beautiful game that I would love that everyone enjoys.
  73. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    A classic that returns.
    Thanks all the fans who suport this...18 years waiting is over.
  74. Nov 19, 2019
    0
    Health drains too fast, the camera angles are **** **** this game, shouldn't have backed it on kickstarter
  75. Nov 19, 2019
    3
    Loved the originals, but this series did not age well. The few charming bits are buried under a dump truck full of sub-par gameplay, story and just about everything else.
  76. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Worth the wait, after so many years, this game its in out hands to continue this great journey
  77. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    I loved it thanks Suzuki san for the game can't w8 for Shenmue 4 with a decent fund for the game and we all go8ng to see the REAL art of Shenmue
  78. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    I never thought I'd see this degree of beauty on an indie game. Shenmue III Looks so gorgeous.. ignore those haters saying that this looks like a PS2 game, obviously they don't know what they are talking about.

    A different game that needs patience when playing it. Not for everyone.
  79. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Great to finally get shenmue 3 , its everything a shenmue game should be with better graphics and much more mingames overall im happy, some characters could be better detailed and dialogue it’s atypical shenmue dialogue Awkward and weird, but man finally after 20 years!!!!
  80. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Shenmue III is EXACTLY the game we dreamed of all those years.
    It sure looks like it was made in 2002 or so, but with HD graphics.

    It's amazing, mesmerizing, and clearly made with love.
  81. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Great game, a magic memories have coming to my past, a continuation history of shenmue, the dream has come back
  82. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    I really enjoy playing this game. Love the story, characters, picturesque locations and battle system. It's true that technically and graphically it's far from current AAA games but that's not what's most important for me. Shenmue 3 is full of charm and magic I loved about previous games.
  83. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    It's incredible that Yu Suzuki's team—which is smaller than the team that worked on the first game—managed to make Shenmue 3 feel exactly like the first two entries. Playing this game made me feel like I was 10 years old again.
  84. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Absolutely an amazing return to form!! Thank you YS net, Deep Silver, Sega, and YU SUZUKI!!!!
  85. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    A miracle made by fans and developer. A legend continues.
    So many critics on it. No one remember it is a Kickstarter game.
    For me, a miracle
  86. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Wow, gives me goosebumbs. Feeling like im 20 again. Great job Deep Silver. 10 p
  87. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    After 18 yeras, a wonderful return by the SEGA most greasest guru, Yu Suzuki, in this, amazing new adventure with Ryo Hazuki and Shenhua. You'll love this!
  88. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    I can truly count on 1 hand the amount of games in my life that have impacted me deeply. Shenmue is one of them.
    For that reason I and many other campaigned for years to just get closure on story we have all deeply invested our hearts into. The fact this game got made is amazing enough but what is truly jaw dropping is that after nearly 20 years of waiting Shenmue 3 honestly lives up to
    I can truly count on 1 hand the amount of games in my life that have impacted me deeply. Shenmue is one of them.
    For that reason I and many other campaigned for years to just get closure on story we have all deeply invested our hearts into. The fact this game got made is amazing enough but what is truly jaw dropping is that after nearly 20 years of waiting Shenmue 3 honestly lives up to that wait. The feel of Shenmue is here in spades.
    I'm enjoying every second I play and I encourage any and all who hasn't played a shenmue game to do so. It will grip u like no other.


    Thank Yu.
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  89. Nov 19, 2019
    8
    Du bon shenmue, imparfait mais bon, qui satisfait le fan que je suis. Très satisfait du résultat compte tenu d'un budget qui n'a pas du dépassé les 15 millions de dollars
  90. Nov 19, 2019
    9
    (Recommend playing with Japanese voice over and English Subtitles) What do you get when you mix LA Noire,Yakuza, Persona, and Virtua Fighter? Shenmue 3. Initially is a story of revenge but as you play it becomes so much more. Charming story of friendships, action and adventure. It’s easy to get sucked into this world.
  91. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    I have really enjoyed the game. If you played either of the previous games and liked them, you will almost certainly like this one as well.
  92. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    A lot better than expected, one of the best sequels ever made. This and Bloodstained are the best kickstarter games ever
  93. Nov 19, 2019
    3
    The Wait is Over & the game is a Big Flop Boring, monotonous, graphics of 15 years ago, this game is lame and I think is one of the worst games of this year, Yu Suzuki what a shame you are.
  94. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    The best independent game I've been able to play in the whole decade. Original and unique, only Shenmue is Shenmue. Refrain fans of explosions through corridors and other mainstream games of the moment.
  95. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Que maravilla!! Al fin un juego hecho con alma y con pasion! Simplemente lo mejor del año! Gracias Yu Suzuki por regalarnos esta obra atemporal!
  96. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Whilst the gaming mechanics are reminiscent of the days of the Dreamcast, it does not disappoint. Shenmue 3 is such a dense game, full of many things to keep you occupied and entertained with far more intricacies than you would expect from a kickstarter title with such ambition.
  97. Nov 19, 2019
    9
    I was barely a teenager when the first Shenmue was released. I had been following the development for several years, captivated by the glimpses, teases and various previews that had been released over the course of several years. When the game was finally released, I was blown away by the characters and world Yu Suzuki had crafted. The game was everything I had hoped and dreamed it wouldI was barely a teenager when the first Shenmue was released. I had been following the development for several years, captivated by the glimpses, teases and various previews that had been released over the course of several years. When the game was finally released, I was blown away by the characters and world Yu Suzuki had crafted. The game was everything I had hoped and dreamed it would be and once I had seen the closing credits, I knew I needed more.

    As we all know, Shenmue I was just the first part of a much larger story, but fortunately for fans, aside from XBox exclusivity in North America causing an unnecessary delay for those in that region, they didn't have to wait to long for the second game in the series. Shenmue II was released shortly after the first game and not only had a huge number of improvements, it also had a much larger world. Unfortunately, it ended on a huge cliffhanger and fans have been waiting 18 years to find out what happens after lead protagonist, Ryo Hazuki and literally the girl of his dreams, Shenhua leave that damn cave.

    So does Shenmue III live up to the hype? The short answer is yes, but as you'd expect, there are some caveats.

    The game begins right where Shenmue II left off, with Ryo and Shenhua in the cave together, witnessing the mysteriou appearance of the dragon and phoenix mirrors upon the wall of the cave. After a few interactions with Shenhua, we're able to explore the world of Shenmue III and finally play the new installment in the series. Gameplay-wise, Shenmue fans will be right at home. Shenmue III plays in a very similar fashion to its predecessors and despite some modernisations (for example, dual analogue movement controls), the game is very much a successor to the first two games in every way imaginable. This means movement, animations, character models and dialogue are all a little dated, but in terms of Shenmue III's core gameplay, it honestly plays as a beautiful continuation of the groundwork the previous two titles laid.

    Environments are now bigger and mostly seamless, instead of the compartmentalised worlds the previous two games had. In addition, although character models aren't the best you will see on the PS4 by a long shot, the worlds you can explore are beautiful. As you'd expect from the Shenmue series, these are full of fun activities to engage in, characters to interact with and side quests to complete.

    The story writing and plot is as great as ever. Old characters return to the fold and the pacing has that classic Shenmue style. Dialogue is as quirky and - at times corny - as you'd expect, but fans of the series will not be disappointed.

    In terms of the game's flaws, I'm not completely sold on the benefits of the new stamina system, which I find to be a mild hindrance when it comes to encouraging players to explore and enjoy traversing through the various areas within the game. The combat also has a more RPG-style leveling system this time, with the core-combat itself, being altered from the Virtua Fighter mechanics to something a bit more straightforward. It's certainly enjoyable, but perhaps not as deep as the original fighting gameplay. I personally like the RPG training system this time, but can understand others might not.

    Overall, Shenmue III lives up to 18 years of hype and is a resounding success. I just hope the wait for Shenmue IV isn't quite so long.
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  98. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    yu suzuki did his best for his fans we must not forgot that is a kikstater what a great game wonderful story i been waithing for a long long time 18 yeas thank you yu suzuki you made my dream come true
  99. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Meraviglioso! Portico! Straordinario! Graficamente stupendo! Commovente!!!!
  100. Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Ay que valorar el juego siendo de bajo presupuesto y la continuación de la saga y sin duda no defrauda en nada para los fans
Metascore
67

Mixed or average reviews - based on 78 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 30 out of 78
  2. Negative: 7 out of 78
  1. May 18, 2020
    30
    What a horrible experience this was. Whatever minuscule redeeming qualities this game might have are drowned out by just how infuriating it is. And I can’t think of anybody who is a fan of this franchise that can honestly call this game good with a straight face. Get this game if you’re a fan of the series, but don’t be surprised if it just ends up making you hate yourself for waiting nearly two decades for what is essentially the video game equivalent of Freddy Got Fingered.
  2. May 18, 2020
    30
    What a horrible experience this was. Whatever minuscule redeeming qualities this game might have are drowned out by just how infuriating it is. And I can’t think of anybody who is a fan of this franchise that can honestly call this game good with a straight face. Get this game if you’re a fan of the series, but don’t be surprised if it just ends up making you hate yourself for waiting nearly two decades for what is essentially the video game equivalent of Freddy Got Fingered.
  3. Apr 13, 2020
    50
    Shenmue 3 is a tough recommendation for general audiences. It won't please the die-hard fans of the originals due the step backwards in terms of game design. Neophytes who are curious about it will be confused and bored by the sleep-inducing pace, plus the how the voice acting has not changed since the early '00s. The visuals may have improved, and the loading times are a thing of the past, but this is still has the soul of a Dreamcast title. It won't live up to the expectations that fans have, nor will it excite interest in the franchise. Nothing of substance gets solved by the conclusion, and there's a lack of a pay-off to playing such an intentionally slow experience. The highs in Shenmue 3 involve doing what amounts to nothing; that is just taking in the atmosphere and exploring.