Shenmue III

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1112 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 828 out of 1112
  2. Mixed: 52 out of 1112
  3. Negative: 232 out of 1112
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  1. ChilliHippo
    Dec 3, 2019
    8
    Only a year ago I started for the first time the Shenmue saga so I am no an old fan boy, however I imagined and understood the importance of this franchise in the history of the medium.
    My approach to this 3rd chapter was open minded and, despite the hype, the expectations were quite low knowing that it is a low budget kickstarter project.
    After 30h plus with teenage martial artist Ryo    Only a year ago I started for the first time the Shenmue saga so I am no an old fan boy, however I imagined and understood the importance of this franchise in the history of the medium.
    My approach to this 3rd chapter was open minded and, despite the hype, the expectations were quite low knowing that it is a low budget kickstarter project.
    After 30h plus with teenage martial artist Ryo Hazuki I must say the game felt pretty good to me.
    It is not a masterpiece but it holds the weight of the name on his shoulder quite well. The game features all the quirky characteristics of the first 2 games, which I believe for the average of players could be cons but for me are pros that makes it somehow special. Many people claim that the graphics are from previous generations...what?? (Seriously guys, how can you say that?) This game has some pretty impressive visuals in particular the lighting effects, the selections of material/textures, the 3D models of main characters are top notch instead the NPCs, although they all dubbed in English (or Japanese), are less detailed but still with a cool anime style.
    Even thought it still doesn't tell much, the story is good, the environments are colourful and live, the world crafted by Yu Suzuki's small team screams 80s Chinese culture from every corner: lore, fashion, food, architecture and music generated joyful magic feelings in me that only a few handful Nintendo games (or Studio Ghibli movie) gave me before, something far from being realistic but very close to what a videogame should be.
    Shenmue III has plenty of defects too, the gameplay is not for everybody as it could be slow and annoying in some parts, combat system as well doesn't keep up with modern standards however it becomes quite fun and rewarding when you get used to it. Then the animations, the low frame rate, the constant pop up of NPCs, the repetitions of some dialogues, the storytelling and many others small things could really make you raise the eyebrows but you kinda want to justify them if you think at what this game went through and at the ridiculous budget they had to start with.
    After all, it still feels like a miracle game that gave me awesome moments of fun so I hope it will sell well and that they can continue the franchise with more chapters without seeking anymore alms.
    I would give a nice 7 /10 for people like me who are new to the saga and a deserved 9/10 for the fan who have been waiting and hoping for 19 years and finally can enjoy it. The average final mark would be a solid 8/10.    … Expand
  2. Pedroff
    Dec 4, 2019
    10
    Well, it's Shenmue, enough said. A game with soul, a middle finger to modern gaming conventions and something not made for the average Joe or the reviewers from the "especialized" media that lost their real passion for videogames long ago. Thank You, Yu Suzuki. Don't give up and bring us Shenmue4.
  3. Pbiggs
    Dec 12, 2019
    9
    I loved the shenmue games growing up as a kid - the series is unique in so many ways. After a long wait I finally got my dream - Shenmue 3, and it did not disappoint. I've plugged hours into this game with no regret - this game is very much about the journey, not the destination.
  4. Lkskiller
    Dec 28, 2019
    10
    When it was said they made a game for the fans of the first two games they weren't exaggerating. Yu Suzuki and his team have recreated the feeling of Shenmue 1 and 2 whilst embracing benefits modern consoles. The fact they made this game on a Kickstarter budget is nothing short of incredible. They should be immensely proud .
  5. acedies
    Jan 2, 2020
    10
    Sure it has its ussues, but I loved every second of it! Can'wait for Shenmue 4!
  6. darthjf
    Jan 5, 2020
    10
    As a fan of the original games I wholeheartedly love Shenmue III. It's everything I ever hoped for and what small issues there are can be forgiven due to the limited resources the dev team had at their disposal. It's a lovingly crafted game as I'm sure anyone willing to dive into its virtual world can notice.

    But despite being exactly what the fans wanted it's not a game for everyone. I    As a fan of the original games I wholeheartedly love Shenmue III. It's everything I ever hoped for and what small issues there are can be forgiven due to the limited resources the dev team had at their disposal. It's a lovingly crafted game as I'm sure anyone willing to dive into its virtual world can notice.

    But despite being exactly what the fans wanted it's not a game for everyone. I get that a lot of people aren't going to like it, but it's not due to any faults in the game itself. Rather, Shenmue has always had a design philosophy that's different from other open world adventure games. Some people simply aren't going to agree with what Shenmue is, and think it should be something else.

    Shenmue is a slow game by design. Rather than rushing to complete this and that objective to progress in the story, the game encourages you to look around the world and enjoy the mundane aspects of the game world. Practice your kung fu, do odd jobs for money, gamble, and play arcade mini games. Rather than being a goal driven hectic quest from A to B it's about immersing yourself in the life in your virtual world and enjoying the journey as the overall plot slowly moves forward.

    Some will get sucked in this experience and love it. Other's won't and will hate it. But I love it and that's all that matters to me. 10/10.    … Expand
  7. EsotericSaturn
    Jan 7, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Shenmue III is a faithful continuation to Ryo Hazuki’s story that definitely doesn't disappoint. The story properly leads off of the events of Shenmue I & II, and certainly will be more appreciated by people who have completed those games as well. But, even people new to the series will find much to enjoy. For me, I was somewhere in between since I knew of the series, but hadn't played any of the games. I played all three games back to back over the course of a couple weeks & got really invested in not only the story, but the characters & vast world to explore with much to do.

    The world you explore is absolutely gorgeous, even by modern standards & the sound design compliments the game as a whole. There are many things to do such as various jobs, kung-fu training, gambling & even arcade games. It also features evolved fighting throughout the story, but also through optional street fights to earn tokens.

    The biggest gripe people seem to have with this game is that it's not the end to the story, which I can understand since Shenmue IV isn't guaranteed, although I would argue that it is more likely to happen than not for a number of reasons that I'll include at the end of this review. But, fans disappointed about the end not really being the end should look at this game as Yu Suzuki getting the ball rolling again, which can be the hardest part.

    Is Shenmue III a perfect sequel? No, but it is a pretty damn good one that retains much of the charm since the days of the Dreamcast while still evolving enough to be considered a modern marvel. Shenmue III I believe will go on to be an underrated gem of this console generation, just like the first two were in their own era.



    Extra notes about Shenmue IV:

    The reason I believe we're more likely than not to get Shenmue IV are many of the same reasons why Shenmue II & III were feasible. Many people forget that Shenmue III would have happened even with a budget of just $2,000,000, which won't be too hard for them to reach from sales of the game at retail & on digital storefronts, as well as licensing deals they’ve signed to produce collector's editions from companies like Limited Run Games.

    Another point I have that is related to how Shenmue II was more feasible even as the Dreamcast met it's demise is that Shenmue IV can simply reuse some assets from Shenmue III to keep costs down, similar to how Shenmue II reuses some assets from Shenmue I.

    My final point & the final block in this wall of text is that they can always do another crowdfunding campaign. There's absolutely no reason they can't do it again & even without factoring in any money made from retail sales, I'm sure they would hit at least their minimum threshold to make Shenmue IV happen just from their dedicated fanbase alone. With that, I'll be looking forward to the continuation of Ryo’s journey & I hope you will as well.    … Expand
  8. susoloy
    Jan 12, 2020
    9
    I discover the saga the last year and i'm very glad of it. Yu Suzuki made a very good game . I hope the Shenmue 4 come soon.
  9. Taf1010
    Dec 8, 2019
    0
    Симулятор гринда. Скучный сюжет (которого максимум час). Никакого прогресса по сравнению с 2 частью
  10. Kaniya
    Nov 23, 2019
    6
    From the moment you boot up the game on PS4 it feels like you are thrown back in time in PS2 & XBOX era. The menu and even the title sequence style of the game is the resemblance of a beautiful time that we all been through and may have forgotten.
    At its core, Shenmue 3 feels like its remake of a game that should have existed 15 years ago but that does not mean the game is disappointing.    From the moment you boot up the game on PS4 it feels like you are thrown back in time in PS2 & XBOX era. The menu and even the title sequence style of the game is the resemblance of a beautiful time that we all been through and may have forgotten.
    At its core, Shenmue 3 feels like its remake of a game that should have existed 15 years ago but that does not mean the game is disappointing. we never really expected shenmue 3 to carry the same cutting edge and revolutionary technology that it had back then. Instead with its relatively small budget , it tries to be more of sequel that is freezed in time and that is not a bad thing.
    Shenmue 3 doesnt have Mesmerising graphics, but the world is immersive enough if you want it to be. There are details in every corner of the game and you can view all the details from close. The world is colorful and pretty. From the green and lovely village to more populated river side area the world comes to life with its rich details in every corner. Top notch sound design and music also helps to breath life and artistic sense into the world.
    When it comes to gameplay, Shenmue doesnt really evolve the formula of the series. Its a game that is between Persona & Yakuza and yet neither of them. You got your romance, socialisation, daily life, adventures and occasionally kung fu fights. The game is filled with tons of dialogues, however I wish these dialogues were written much better. Some of the dialogues are boring and too cheesey. The voice acting is good but its no where near today standards. At times it feels almost too robotic but if you are fan of Shenmue then that is also part of the game's charm. Original shenmue was all about immersing yourself in the city, working, mini game and going through lots of cut-scene and scripted fights. The same is here, you spend majority of your time to be a detective like person and explore places on your own and slowly unfold a story that both long awaited questions & also leave and open some new topics to the lore of shenmue. Shenhua is the highlight of the game and I feel without her this game would have been a massive failure. Other side of gameplay is completely up to you. You want to engage in the world its your choice, thus for people who are not into narrative games shenmue can become boring but if you are fan of such games then you should be fine. Battles have a very dated arcady feeling and they were not my favourite part of the game. they almost feel like Virtua fighter series but for what it is, they are good and add some variety to the gameplay and depths to our character.
    In conclusion, shenmue 3 is a very faithful sequel, i wish the game was more evolved into modern day but judging by its small budget I assume it was the right call to make a game that we all wanted perhaps 15 years ago. Its nostalgic of old times, it reminded me more than the game itself, reminded me the time i discussed about how fascinating shenmue was to my friends at school. if you love shenmue you will not be disappointed. however if you are after game like Yakuza with more focus on fights, skill trees and side quests you might not quiet enjoy this one! this is a game that is designed mostly for existing fans of the original series.
    EDIT: After finishing the game today, I want to add to my review how frustrated and disappointed I am in the story and its conclusion. after 40 hours of campaign & 18 years of waiting and donating more than 100$ this is the worst thing ever! i expected lots of questions to be answered and lots of story progressed but instead he just left too many questions unasnwered and also added more to show its potential for sequels! i dont really see any sequel for this game with such a massive stupid ending. Thanks for nothing.    … Expand
  11. ray670121
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Shenmue 3 is worth to wait. Fans will enjoy its classic gameplay. Amazing story let magic memories have coming to my past. Thanks to Suzuki san created this series
  12. Stiffo
    Nov 19, 2019
    9
    The game is perfect for fans of the original . Anyone coming in to the 3rd instalment should play the 1st & 2nd game before playing this title . I’ve waited so long for this to be a reality but I’m not naive to say it’s the best game ever , it’s not ! It’s a game for the fans of the series . It re-mains true to its origins and is a true continuation of a much loved story.
  13. henritoxbox
    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!
  14. Red_Eileen
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Developped like an independant game and really good.
    Sure thing, it's not a 100 millions $ budget game but it clearly does a good job.
    For Shenmue players, great improvements : more things to do and explore, more story secrets to discover, and still this martial arts spirit based on wisdom and self improvement. For non Shenmue players, well you shall play the two others, it would be    Developped like an independant game and really good.
    Sure thing, it's not a 100 millions $ budget game but it clearly does a good job.

    For Shenmue players, great improvements : more things to do and explore, more story secrets to discover, and still this martial arts spirit based on wisdom and self improvement.

    For non Shenmue players, well you shall play the two others, it would be better. But even, you will discover a poetic and nice game where you HAVE to take your time, and this is a major feature of the franchise. You're not to rush and finish the game quickly but rather discover it as much as you want and take pleasure while doing this. Fights are rather complex but you will be used to it quickly.

    You still don't know i you buy it ? Well take a risk once in a lifetime and discover a new univers and a cool way of playing videogames    … Expand
  15. ArielFPD7
    Nov 21, 2019
    10
    No conocía esta saga hasta que ví los remasters del 1 y 2. Y fue algo increíble. Entendí por qué había tanto alboroto con un juego "viejo". Era como si tuviese magia negra, pasaron como 18 años desde los primeros dos juegos y sin embargo estaba embelezado con su jugabilidad, la historia. Luego me enteré del Shenmue III, lo compré y luego de 10 horas jugandolo, es una obra maestra. No es unNo conocía esta saga hasta que ví los remasters del 1 y 2. Y fue algo increíble. Entendí por qué había tanto alboroto con un juego "viejo". Era como si tuviese magia negra, pasaron como 18 años desde los primeros dos juegos y sin embargo estaba embelezado con su jugabilidad, la historia. Luego me enteré del Shenmue III, lo compré y luego de 10 horas jugandolo, es una obra maestra. No es un juego para todos, si no jugaste los anteriores es difícil entrar en su mundo, en su ritmo. Pero es increíble, se ve hermoso, la jugabilidad es excelente, y el ritmo lento te obliga a recorrer su mundo y embeberte en él.… Expand
  16. james1991
    Nov 21, 2019
    10
    It's exactly what you would expect as a fan. If you liked the first 2 games you'll like this one. As for the people complaining about the graphics it's not a AAA game he made the game with about 1/10 of the budget of a AAA game and i feel they did a great job when you take that into consideration. as for the ending it's obviously not a definitive ending as the plan is to have 4 of them atIt's exactly what you would expect as a fan. If you liked the first 2 games you'll like this one. As for the people complaining about the graphics it's not a AAA game he made the game with about 1/10 of the budget of a AAA game and i feel they did a great job when you take that into consideration. as for the ending it's obviously not a definitive ending as the plan is to have 4 of them at least and any fan of the series will understand that. I hope this will generate enough money to allow him to finish the series.… Expand
  17. Knite205
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    Waited 18 years! Big thanks to yu sasuzki. And his team! I Litterly fell in love with it. After 20 min if playing! Hoping for a shenmue 4!! Finger cross!
  18. FrizzyGG
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    Shenmue 3 is a budget game made for hardcore fans in mind, it stays faithful to the original concept from Shenmue 1 & 2 and adds some welcome changes. It's been 18 years and I'm glad I got to see the continuation of this classic that should be dead, but just shows the power of a faithful community that never gave hope to get this game made no matter the odds. I'm just glad it exists andShenmue 3 is a budget game made for hardcore fans in mind, it stays faithful to the original concept from Shenmue 1 & 2 and adds some welcome changes. It's been 18 years and I'm glad I got to see the continuation of this classic that should be dead, but just shows the power of a faithful community that never gave hope to get this game made no matter the odds. I'm just glad it exists and hopefully we get more! The story continues...… Expand
  19. Slimshdy85
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    Mantiene la esencia original, como si no hubieran pasado ya 18 años desde shenmue 2. Una vez más, Yu Suzuki lo ha vuelto a hacer y solo queda agradacerle su esfuerzo por hacer felices a todos los fans de la saga.
  20. Niohk
    Nov 26, 2019
    10
    A reminiscent of its earliest instalments with a few more things added to the fray. If you're looking for a 90s throwback but with a modern touch, this is it!
  21. Della64
    Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Stunning visuals, colors, lights, the nature
    ... It's incredible what they achieved with that small budget. And the audio is incredible too, the nature sounds are nothing seen so far in a videogame. The story is catching me and the fighting system is really hard (playing at hardest difficult) hardest
  22. NeilNDM
    Nov 19, 2019
    10
    A must buy game from the legendary Yu Suzuki. The originator of open world games returns with an epic follow up to the Shenmue series. Worth buying 100%
  23. segasweden
    Nov 19, 2019
    10
    Finally we get to play a game from this franchise again and without reveal any spoilers I would say it is worth the wait. Even if you are new to the series the game draws you in with its rich world of adventure, characters and life.
  24. Dokodemodoamike
    Nov 19, 2019
    10
    A sequel that is truely worth the name. It turned out way better than i expected. it is made with so much love and passion, you can feel it. People who never played 1&2 maybe get confused at the beginning (the recap video that comes with 3 is too short and lacks of information, you better watch on youtube for better recap videos). But fans will instantly get hooked again. It feels like asA sequel that is truely worth the name. It turned out way better than i expected. it is made with so much love and passion, you can feel it. People who never played 1&2 maybe get confused at the beginning (the recap video that comes with 3 is too short and lacks of information, you better watch on youtube for better recap videos). But fans will instantly get hooked again. It feels like as if nothing happened and it seamlessly flows from Shenmue 2 to 3. The world feels alive and gorgeous, people feel like true personalities. Fighting feels different, but when you get used to it, it feels challenging.
    There is no way a fan of this series will be disappointed. This game has a soul! Just ignore the haters who have no clue about the franchise.    … Expand
  25. RyoxHazuki
    Nov 19, 2019
    10
    An authentic masterpiece, the true heir of the Shenmue Saga. Love it. You really feel like a martial artists discovering all the best moves in old china. Priceless.
  26. Pjbrown
    Nov 19, 2019
    10
    It was worth the 18 year wait. Shenmue is a series if you have never played,you are truly missing out on something very special. The saga continues
  27. mikehook1
    Nov 30, 2019
    10
    A mastepiece in story telling. I am blown away by it's ability to make you want to keep playing. To learn more about a compelling mystery. Brilliant
  28. Jonjen
    Nov 19, 2019
    9
    Fantastic game, picks where the sequel left off, plays just like the classics and that's just perfect. It's everything you wanted from a Shenmue III all them years ago and more.
  29. ceNLIFE
    Apr 10, 2020
    10
    The game have a lot of problems overall, but for us, fans, its a great game, a game that we have waited for 18 years! I like the fact that in terms of gameplay this game almost feels like a Dremcast game released in 2019!
  30. Scribe86
    Nov 19, 2019
    9
    A perfect continuation to a series left dormant for close to two decades. Yu Suzuki has managed to recapture the spirit of Shenmue from the games from back in the early 0’s whilst managing to include many quality of life changes, making the gameplay experience far more enjoyable. Considering this is initially a crowdfunded project (other parties financially contributed also) I think thisA perfect continuation to a series left dormant for close to two decades. Yu Suzuki has managed to recapture the spirit of Shenmue from the games from back in the early 0’s whilst managing to include many quality of life changes, making the gameplay experience far more enjoyable. Considering this is initially a crowdfunded project (other parties financially contributed also) I think this has turned out much better than expected. The voice acting and audio direction is far superior to previous entries, the controls have been greatly improved and the use of the unreal engine has bought the games visuals up to the current generation. There are a small few critiques; some of the dialogue threads seem a little disjointed at times and the removal of throw moves from Ryo’s moves was a disappointment. However this is a faithful continuation of the series which I think anyone even with the slightest interest in role playing/action adventure games based in the East in the 1980’s should definitely consider playing. Experienced no noticeable slowdown, graphical or pacing issues - played on a base PS4.… Expand
  31. The_Dorkside
    Nov 21, 2019
    10
    Shenmue 3 is a hard one. it's an unpolished, yet polished diamond that rejects everything modern gaming has to say. Shenmue 3 does this in a splendig, refreshing manner. I'm giving this game 10/10, not as a fan of the series, but rather as a celebrating the game for it's uniqueness, offering something no other game does. And your appreciation for the game comes down to the effort you putShenmue 3 is a hard one. it's an unpolished, yet polished diamond that rejects everything modern gaming has to say. Shenmue 3 does this in a splendig, refreshing manner. I'm giving this game 10/10, not as a fan of the series, but rather as a celebrating the game for it's uniqueness, offering something no other game does. And your appreciation for the game comes down to the effort you put into the game yourself.

    The biggest problem with Shenmue today, is that people have a hard time grasping what the game actually is. To explain this in the simplest way possible, Shenmue 3 is a story driven, world-simulation, adventure fighting rpg, with a mixture of collecting and micro managing resources.

    The story takes place chronologically in a 24h/day system in which every day, even the mundane ones, is being played. A story sequence that could fit into a 10 minute cut scene in a modern game, can take Shenmue 15 hours to complete. The reason for this is that you as a player need to deal with everyday life of the main character Ryo Hazuki. If you are open minded and take your time, you start living and breathing the world of Shenmue, you start worrying about your financial situation, how the earn money effectively, how to become a better martial artist, while at the same time helping the people you start to care for. After 15h in Bailu village, you know every nook and corner, at the same time, you know the inhabitants by name, their personality and when you talk to your friend Shenhua about them you realize that you actually know all the people she is referring to. When NPCs are mere background noise in other games, Shenmue actually presents believable (yet somewhat awkward) characters to the world they inhabit.

    I don't think this game is for everybody. But with that being said, If you start playing the game.... think of it as a "world simulator". If you are expecting Uncharted 4 and try to shoehorn those traits into this game, you haven't allowed yourself to be open minded to games in general, or the appreciation of the beauty that is called Shenmue.

    We need more Shenmue. because the game is a "one of a kind" that defies the rules of modern (boring) AAA-climate. The game isn't perfect, But I am willing to let these minor stuff pass just out of the sheer complexity of the game.    … Expand
  32. patriarchy
    Apr 10, 2020
    5
    It's as eccentric as the original however seems to rely too much on minigames. I enjoyed weirdness and bad writing of the originals at the time, I don't seem to feel as engaged this time. Combat system is pretty bad. I thought the story will end here and was disappointed to see it did not.
  33. Nintenboy
    Nov 21, 2019
    10
    My game of 2019!
    Stunning visuals, amazing story and true gameplay to the originals! I actually prefer the new combat system and I love how you can level up Ryo! Feels like your training real pays off! I’m just lost in this world. Games today lack what shenmue has always delivered on. I couldn’t have asked for anything better! 100/100
  34. Great_Dragon
    Nov 28, 2019
    5
    The was frozen for 18 years, then Yu Suzuke decided to unfreeze it, added HD textures and released it. That’s it.
    The gameplay is absolutely outdated today. It’s just boring. There is no evolution. It’s the same old Shenmue 1 with new textures. Like HD mod for an old game from fans.
  35. abeyface
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Amazing and unlike anything you have played. Immerse yourself in a piece of art.
  36. ChefExcellence
    Nov 21, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. First thing you need to realise is they’ve tried to make the game as close to the original on purpose. For that reason, the controls are clunky and the camera angles can be annoying sometimes, just like they were on a Shenmue 1 & 2. The graphics are muchly improved, not so much the background and unimportant textures like the grass, but the details on people’s faces and reflections on windows etc. Anyone who claims that the graphics are ‘terrible’ or ‘PS2’ graphics are clearly deluded! Having said that, as I mentioned above, the textures on the less important stuff like the grass are definitely PS3/Xbox 360 graphics. The rest of the game though is definitely PS4 worthy, for instance there are reflections and things on wooden doors that move and such as the door is opened. Could the graphics have been better? Yes they could have, but graphics don’t make the game, the story does that!

    I don’t personally see the series picking up many new fans purely down to the clunky controls mentioned above, but for longtime players of both games on the Dreamcast and Shenmue 2 on the OG Xbox they are exactly as I remember! One big advantage this game has over the first two is the huge leap in processing power. The first games were plagued with loading screens, but thanks to the power of the PS4 they are now a thing of the past for most of the game.

    I love the new health system, this was something that was planned for Shenmue 1 and 2 but never made it to the final game (despite the fact that you could still buy the food). I also loved the little nods and Easter eggs hidden throughout the game.

    A lot of people seem to complain about the games ending but to be honest, any true Shenmue fan would have seen the ending coming a mile away. Yu Suzuki already said countless times before the game launched that the story isn’t even 50% complete.

    I always give honest reviews for games, even ones I am a huge fan of as a I believe it’s the only way developers are able to make better titles. Now it’s time to be critical and list the very few things that I didn’t like about the game.

    - The inability to skip dialogue. I can understand not skipping it with main characters, that’s fair. But do I really need to hear the same stuff over and over again when I go to practice martial arts or chop some wood? You can skip it once you’ve listened to it once per day but as soon as you go to sleep you have to listen to it again before you can skip it.

    - The forklift job is only there for nostalgia purposes really. You get paid very little and could earn more money in the same amount of time chopping wood.

    - As I mentioned above, I like the new health system but I really wish running had a separate stamina bar and didn’t result in you losing health.

    P.S.

    One final thing the story does that I don’t agree with, there’s a lot of interaction between Ryo and.... Oh never mind, I’m just gonna say it, FOR GOODNESS SAKE KISS THE GIRL ALREADY!!!    … Expand
  37. TMac075
    Nov 22, 2019
    10
    According to the budget given, Yu Suzuki and his team 's work was amazing. Finally we can keep playing this amazing story.
  38. xgoldenboyx
    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.
  39. hobnob_
    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.    … Expand
  40. kujaligula
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Este vídeo juego es una leyenda viviente, es parte de una saga que es y fue un parte aguas en la evolución de los videojuegos , la interacción , conversaciones , es traer a la vida una joya de antaño de la extraordinaria consola Dreamcast
  41. wrinklysword
    Nov 19, 2019
    9
    Really good game..Only downside is graphics...For modern gamers, if you like yakuza ,you might like it..
  42. mjq1986
    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.
  43. dlilin
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    I love all the bloody details shown in this game!! Actually, I haven't played Shenmue I & II, but Shenmue III is totally impressed me after 20 hours setting in front of my PS4. Suzuki Yū-san is certainly a Top 10 game creator in video game history.
  44. Joaks_Daniel
    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.
  45. Dicimania
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    for me its the best game ever! Shenmue 3 brought me back from my "gaming retirement" =)))
  46. Javiero1289
    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!♥️
  47. gamesi
    Nov 22, 2019
    10
    Some of the nicest graphics I have seen when it comes to environment this is shenmue thew and thew funded buy the fans made for the fans i have seen much worse with much higher budget games shenmue 3 is a massive game with lots of shops and food stores to visit you can now customize Ryo and buy new stuff for him to wear there is endless arcade games later on in the game there is so much inSome of the nicest graphics I have seen when it comes to environment this is shenmue thew and thew funded buy the fans made for the fans i have seen much worse with much higher budget games shenmue 3 is a massive game with lots of shops and food stores to visit you can now customize Ryo and buy new stuff for him to wear there is endless arcade games later on in the game there is so much in this its unbelievable note kids or young adults that never grew up with shenmue well probably won't get its quirky dialog it's what the fans loved about the first 2 back in the day, and they carried the same formula over to shenmue 3 ones again fan service and its what makes shenmue shenmue it wouldn't be otherwise so in my opinion new comers maybe but fans of the first 2 absolutely… Expand
  48. Davebronze
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    People who love Shenmue (that’s me) will love this. It won’t change the mind if people that don’t. The fact it even exists still baffles. It’s like it’s been locked in a cupboard for 18 years then given a HD upgrade. And for that reason it rocks.
  49. rbiondi
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    I'll describe Shenmue III with just one word: DELICIOUS!!!
    It's a masterpiece and joy to play.
  50. ARokitLawnChair
    Nov 19, 2019
    9
    If you were a fan of the games in the past, you’ll love this title. It’s unapologetically a sequel to those games, warts and all (some it wears with pride), with a few welcome quality of life improvements. Although the addition of food/stamina is a questionable mechanic added into the game that isn’t fully realised and comes across as a real half step, as you’re just replenishing you’reIf you were a fan of the games in the past, you’ll love this title. It’s unapologetically a sequel to those games, warts and all (some it wears with pride), with a few welcome quality of life improvements. Although the addition of food/stamina is a questionable mechanic added into the game that isn’t fully realised and comes across as a real half step, as you’re just replenishing you’re stamina for the sake of using food and spending money with no animation or sequence of consuming the food. Despite it being the third title in the series, it’s a good starting point for curious first timers.… Expand
  51. BrbImCarrying
    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
  52. Games4thewin
    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
  53. SethRindner
    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
  54. Baihu
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Incredible atmosphere, quirky characters, addictive gameplay loop, the best Shenmue yet
  55. Agahnim01
    Nov 21, 2019
    9
    Started the game and played 10 hours yesterday (i'll update the review when i'm done).

    Shenmue 3 is pretty much everything i expected, and hoped it would be. I was thrown back in the breathtaking world of rural Guilin and felt right at home from the start. The music and the landscapes are charming and relaxing. This is a game for people who want to take their time, relax and enjoy    Started the game and played 10 hours yesterday (i'll update the review when i'm done).

    Shenmue 3 is pretty much everything i expected, and hoped it would be. I was thrown back in the breathtaking world of rural Guilin and felt right at home from the start.

    The music and the landscapes are charming and relaxing. This is a game for people who want to take their time, relax and enjoy the scenery.... and take time it will. If you're in for an adrenaline rush, you'll be greatly disappointed, but if you're ready to take your time and stay as calm and reflective as a polished mirror, you're in for a relaxing and endearing quest of world exploration and self discovery.

    Technically, this is not the most advanced game ever. The landscapes are astonishing, but the NPCs' character models range from: "dang those wrinkles are spot on!" to "Is that coming out of a PS1 CG sequence?"

    The same discrepancies can be seen in the animations. Where you'll see the most impressive, smooth and weigthed martial arts animations that you've seen in a video game, but where something as simple as a NPC scratching his head looks like it's been done by a fifth grader trying his hand at Motion Builder for the first time.

    It's obvious that the game had budget constraints and had to make choices, but the choice it made were, for me at least, the best they could have done to make the game feel like a true sequel to Shenmue 2.

    In a modern age overflowed by action games and fast and exciting, adrenaline filled ephemeral experiences, the ambiance, the story, the awkwardly quirky characters and the amazingly slow paced adventure offered by Shenmue 3 provides a breath of peaceful and calming fresh air to anyone who enjoys a soothing forest hike over a car race.    … Expand
  56. Huntsx877
    Nov 26, 2019
    10
    True sequel. You get lost in the beautiful world and map design. Side quests are engaging and not a chore. You are encouraged to explore the maps in an interesting way. Very charming characters and story, completely unique experience. I would recommend anyone with patience to play this.

    The combat is still satifying, although it is a small step down. What's improved is the training and    True sequel. You get lost in the beautiful world and map design. Side quests are engaging and not a chore. You are encouraged to explore the maps in an interesting way. Very charming characters and story, completely unique experience. I would recommend anyone with patience to play this.

    The combat is still satifying, although it is a small step down. What's improved is the training and building up your kung fu, attack and stamina.

    Game is amazing by any standard let alone a crowdfunded game    … Expand
  57. starbirdgamer82
    Nov 28, 2019
    10
    Master piece!! A great Shenmue sequel!!

    Everything feels like going back into the true roots of Shenmue.
  58. okeean
    Dec 1, 2019
    10
    Игра Shenmue 3 такая же олдскульная как и предыдущие части. В игре есть, всё, о чем мечтали фаны Shenmue. Ничего не испорченно, все элементы бережно перенесены в третью часть. И это прекрасно. Графика в игре даже по современным меркам неплохо выглядит. Unreal Engine 4 всё таки. Лично мне игра очень нравится.Игра Shenmue 3 такая же олдскульная как и предыдущие части. В игре есть, всё, о чем мечтали фаны Shenmue. Ничего не испорченно, все элементы бережно перенесены в третью часть. И это прекрасно. Графика в игре даже по современным меркам неплохо выглядит. Unreal Engine 4 всё таки. Лично мне игра очень нравится.
  59. Chino195
    Dec 21, 2019
    6
    I’m sad to do this but I was really disappointed. Shenmue 1 & 2 are in my top 5 games of all time, if you include them as one title. Shenmue 3 I’ve just completed and I’m safely going to say I will never play this game again. I’m not being hard hitting or controversial but I have rarely liked or rated a game highly if at multiple times throughout the game I’ve started to fall asleep midI’m sad to do this but I was really disappointed. Shenmue 1 & 2 are in my top 5 games of all time, if you include them as one title. Shenmue 3 I’ve just completed and I’m safely going to say I will never play this game again. I’m not being hard hitting or controversial but I have rarely liked or rated a game highly if at multiple times throughout the game I’ve started to fall asleep mid play. Yes capsule hunting and running from fortune teller to flower, moon, bird, wind is tedious but also the repetitive conversations morning and night, the characters and even the storyline - which has had 18 years to get right and not come across as a poorly executed and watered down versions of the previous two. Even when you meeting old characters, friend or foe, I was either bored or thinking ‘wtf!’. When before, previous characters would show up I get emotional because of the tension created but it all fell flat for me here. However, I found an improvement from the previous to be fighting and some of the gambling prize aspects.… Expand
  60. nervedamaged
    Nov 29, 2019
    9
    Two words: Fan Service. And that is what backers and fans of the originals wanted. Not for everyone, but this is what I hoped for. The only drawback is now we need a 4th and I was hoping we wouldn't.
  61. abraham_b
    Nov 24, 2019
    9
    Shenmue is not a game series for everyone. It requires patience and is best played as a sort of relaxing, comfy game. I would highly recommend this game to people who are fans of slower, laid back games like Harvest Moon and people who liked Shenmue 1 and 2 as it is quite amazing how faithful it is to those games after all these years. Though I do think that people should try the Shenmue 1Shenmue is not a game series for everyone. It requires patience and is best played as a sort of relaxing, comfy game. I would highly recommend this game to people who are fans of slower, laid back games like Harvest Moon and people who liked Shenmue 1 and 2 as it is quite amazing how faithful it is to those games after all these years. Though I do think that people should try the Shenmue 1 and 2 HD collection first to see if they'd like this sort of game and it is a cheaper option.

    Some people say it feels dated, but that word has negative connotations and in this case, I would argue that it uniquely feels dated in a good way. It's like being transported back to early 2000s gaming, but with a modern twist and that's really fun, not bad. For example, the movement controls aren't great, but they don't hinder the experience much at all and the VO whilst not good, is charming, even for someone like me who doesn't have nostalgia for the originals (I first played them around 10 years after they released).

    The game is not without its faults, i.e. sometimes not being able to skip dialogue, the stamina system, whilst adding a layer of challenge is also unrealistic when eating something like garlic heals you (for a game series which is notorious for being mostly realistic).

    But the world is as atmospheric as the originals, you feel like you live there. That's the best thing about Shenmue. The NPCs are all alive, they have their own names, stories, daily routines, jobs etc. There are plenty of ways to advance the story and the different people you talk to tell you different things depending on who they are and what they know. There are a wealth of mini games, which are mostly fun, but also serve as an important means of making money. The music, like the other Shenmue games, is some of the best orchestral video game music I have ever heard and is beautiful.

    Overall, this game is as divisive as Shenmue has always been, but my view is that if you are into these type of slow, relaxing games, then it's definitely worth a shot. If you are not, then just don't bother and save your money for something else. If you are unsure, as mentioned above, try Shenmue 1 and 2 HD, taking a laid back approach to it, and see if you like it before buying.    … Expand
  62. GamergodsFail
    Nov 29, 2019
    7
    Sometimes I love playing Shenmue 3, sometimes I don't. On one hand, I'm so happy it's finally here complete with a solid narrative, fun activities, arcades, sparring and that classic campy voice work. It's a great throwback! On the other hand, I don't appreciate how dated the gameplay is for a full priced 2019 game. My two major complaints are the new stamina survival mechanic which feelsSometimes I love playing Shenmue 3, sometimes I don't. On one hand, I'm so happy it's finally here complete with a solid narrative, fun activities, arcades, sparring and that classic campy voice work. It's a great throwback! On the other hand, I don't appreciate how dated the gameplay is for a full priced 2019 game. My two major complaints are the new stamina survival mechanic which feels very out of place, as well as the removal of throw moves in combat. These two changes unfortunately made the experience as a whole a bit of a mixed bag for me, but I cannot deny that the love and passion put into this game really shows. It's strictly a game made for fans, by the fans, but not really anyone else.… Expand
  63. muhammadfikrey
    Nov 29, 2019
    9
    this is what really fans need ,the best ending in the sequel cant wait to see what happens next .
  64. ace1325
    Mar 31, 2020
    5
    Has been waiting so many years for this game . And even backed it Day 1

    So where do i start ... game is good story wise and i like the grafics But so many things is totaly broken and feels like bad mechanics . Menus movement Etc Some cutscenes people are walking through npc’s like they are ghosts Npc are gone until they suddenly pop in Front of you And a little extra the Way they    Has been waiting so many years for this game . And even backed it Day 1

    So where do i start ... game is good story wise and i like the grafics But so many things is totaly broken and feels like bad mechanics . Menus movement Etc

    Some cutscenes people are walking through npc’s like they are ghosts

    Npc are gone until they suddenly pop in
    Front of you And a little extra the Way they handle the dlc and f**** backers over is a disgrace

    I feel really sad about how this game turned out    … Expand
  65. sadapple
    Nov 24, 2019
    9
    Here are the pros and cons that I felt after played it for 3 days and over 20 hours:

    Pros: 1. The game gives the player(especially the series fan) a genuine Shenmue experience. 2. The world the game created is is full of details. If you are a patient player which accept a leisure style of playing, you might encounter many surprises during the exploration of the world. If you are an    Here are the pros and cons that I felt after played it for 3 days and over 20 hours:

    Pros:
    1. The game gives the player(especially the series fan) a genuine Shenmue experience.
    2. The world the game created is is full of details. If you are a patient player which accept a leisure style of playing, you might encounter many surprises during the exploration of the world. If you are an old gamer from the 1990s, you might even find yourself addicted to some of the mini-games in the world.....
    3. Shenmue 3 is also a journey of improving one's body and soul, recommended for those players that are interested in KongFu or Asian culture.

    Cons:
    1. The graphics of the game feels like in late-PS3 standard, which might prevent some players of the new console generation to pick it up.
    2. The story of Shenmue 3 doesn't progress much. Since Suzuki has mentioned before that the Shenmue story has 11 chapters, I guess it would take at least two more games to finish the story while Suzuki is already 61.....

    To sum up, as a player, one definitely have the right to criticize Shenmue 3's outdated graphics and lack of some modern open-world game features(like in Assassin Creed, GTA V, etc), but do remember that this is NOT a AAA game and the funding for Shenmue 3 is limited. So here I rated the game from a kickstarter game perspective, and I think in this perspective, Shenmue 3 does live up to the expectations of most of the series fans by providing a genuine Shenmue experience.

    PS: Suppose one is asked to rate the three games which come out recently: Death Stranding(abbreviated as "DS"), Pokemon Sword and Shield(as "PokeSS) and Shenmue 3(as "Sh3").

    A hard core gamer might rate them as follows:
    DS: 9/10,
    PokeSS: 7/10,
    Sh3: 8/10.

    A serious game media might rate them as follows:
    DS: 6/10,
    PokeSS: 4/10,
    Sh3: 5/10.

    A "generous" game media might rate them as follows:
    DS: 9/10,
    PokeSS: 10/10,
    Sh3: 9/10.

    I believe for a normal person or game media, the rating standard for games should be consistent. Guess how IGN's ratings for the three games are? It turns out to be as follows:
    DS: 6.8/10
    PokeSS: 9.3/10
    Sh3: 5.9/10

    It's so inconsistent and almost felt like it was rated by a lunatic to me. How shameful!    … Expand
  66. aladrin
    Nov 27, 2019
    10
    18 years later returns one of the best games most anticipated by all the continuation of shemmue a great saga that was born in dreamcast and now we can enjoy on pc and ps4 the wait to deserved the wait! Thank you very much Yu Suzuki, and the YS Net development team for bringing us this long-awaited continuation.
  67. MasterRyo90
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    Yu Suzuki creates a big oddyssey. This Shenmue 3 it's a dream become true, increidble graphics, gameplay, athmosphere and bso.
  68. SomaKurusu
    Nov 19, 2019
    8
    Este juego no toma a nadie por sorpresa, ni pretende hacerlo. Se sabe que técnicamente está bastante desfasado para los tiempos que corren, y que es sin duda un juego que solo va a gustar a los fans de la saga. No obstante, su diseño artístico y banda sonora son de 10. Sus mecánicas jugables son muy similares a las vistas en las otras 2 entregas, lo que va a agradar a los fans y a molestarEste juego no toma a nadie por sorpresa, ni pretende hacerlo. Se sabe que técnicamente está bastante desfasado para los tiempos que corren, y que es sin duda un juego que solo va a gustar a los fans de la saga. No obstante, su diseño artístico y banda sonora son de 10. Sus mecánicas jugables son muy similares a las vistas en las otras 2 entregas, lo que va a agradar a los fans y a molestar a los nuevos jugadores, ya que quizás se hallan quedado algo atrás en el tiempo. Para mi es un juego de 8, por lo que representa esta saga y lo estoy disfrutando mucho, pero solo puedo recomendárselo a los fans de esta franquicia, no a los jugadores que solo buscan graficazos y fotorealismo.… Expand
  69. Ralu9102
    Nov 23, 2019
    9
    I love this game, at the begining of the developement I thought It would't be at the same level as shenmue 1 and 2 but is it. I totally recomend this game to anyone who love the yakuza saga or sega.
  70. bambooochaaa
    Nov 23, 2019
    10
    Riviviamo il viaggio dolce e calmo del nostro amato protagonista.
    Dal dreamcast ad oggi una serie che mi ha emozionato per la sua lentezza, ma poetica giocabilità, con una caratterizzazione di ogni personaggio pazzesca.
    Grande suzuki
  71. gladias9
    Nov 25, 2019
    7
    I'm sorry but 8.2 is too high and this is coming from a Shenmue 2 fan.
    Nice combat, pretty visuals and robust features worthy of the shenmue name for sure..

    But the story and characters are the worst in the series. Nearly 20 years and we still aren't any deeper into this universe, nothing has changed in the grand scheme of things.
  72. SC126HD
    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
  73. Gianx_8
    Nov 21, 2019
    9
    Una vera perla videoludica, che ancor oggi, nel 2019, riesce a stupire col suo ritmo zen, una grafica coloratissima e dettagliata, e una storia che sorprende sempre, sceneggiata in modo impeccabile. Sistema di combattimento migliorato, anche se un po' legnosetto, aiutato dalla buona gestione delle tecniche di Kung Fu (in stile gdr). Doppiaggio buono e longevità abbastanza alta (soprattuttoUna vera perla videoludica, che ancor oggi, nel 2019, riesce a stupire col suo ritmo zen, una grafica coloratissima e dettagliata, e una storia che sorprende sempre, sceneggiata in modo impeccabile. Sistema di combattimento migliorato, anche se un po' legnosetto, aiutato dalla buona gestione delle tecniche di Kung Fu (in stile gdr). Doppiaggio buono e longevità abbastanza alta (soprattutto se giocato dalla modalità difficile in poi). Per quanto mi riguarda, merita il 9 pieno. Grazie, maestro Yu!… Expand
  74. Siro6233
    Nov 22, 2019
    10
    Fantastic sequels! Great length of 25+ hours gameplay with lots of mini games, nice environment to check up. Great continuation of the series.
    Hungry for the next!
  75. james820
    Nov 22, 2019
    10
    I love this series and I’m so happy it’s back, it’s a throwback to the first 2 games. so if you loved those games you will love this one
  76. Ali_71
    Nov 23, 2019
    10
    Just finished the game and as a fan of this series since Shenmue 1 on Dreamcast, I am very satisfied. Cannot wait for Shenmue IV!
  77. Eneath
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    S3 is an absolutely beautiful sequel true to the originals and jam packed with far more mini games than the 1st two games I grew up with. Yet a 3rd masterpiece enters the fold and there's no site of faultering!
    If you're put off by age old graphics, then no worries--S3 comes with a surprisingly short video found in the main menu that will catch you up quickly on the major story plots. If    S3 is an absolutely beautiful sequel true to the originals and jam packed with far more mini games than the 1st two games I grew up with. Yet a 3rd masterpiece enters the fold and there's no site of faultering!
    If you're put off by age old graphics, then no worries--S3 comes with a surprisingly short video found in the main menu that will catch you up quickly on the major story plots. If you're interested or curious about starting the Shenmue games, I highly recommend starting with none other than Shenmue III!

    People genereally find that the 1st of any series is the best and the following games get worse and worse but in Shenmue's case Yu Suzuki continues to stay true to his fans and even giving them the upmost quality they deserve! Take it from me; Shenmue III is an absolute godsend in the world of gaming. There's nothing quite like it; I love it to pieces!

    Shenmue is a game with so much replayability that you'll be baffled by not having played it before! Check out the community of Shenmue fans or pick up a copy of the game; you'll see just what it is that makes gamers around the world enjoy it so much. Find out just why Yu Suzuki and his masterworks of Shenmue are spot on legends!

    -------
    I'm so glad that I finally got to see this third installment come to light. It's been a long strive to make this happen and not a one of us could have made it without one another. Shenmue III is all that I hoped and much more to state! With dozens of new features and an excellent battle system, I'm just so stoked to get my hands on the 4th game when it comes and I'm most confident that it will arise! A game like Shenmue III in our modern era is sure to attract players that would otherwise turn the other cheek. Even with the budget having been based on the funding of fans Shenmue III was made into something that blew myself and countless others right out of the water! Only someone as brilliant as Yu Suzuki could make miracles like Shenmue III happen and a shout-out to Ys Net as a whole for all their hard work. You lads are the true MVPs! Thank you Ys Net and fans for all your dedication and hard work. 10 out of 10!    … Expand
  78. BesugoAsesino
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    No hay nada que pueda añadir que no se haya dicho ya. Es por y para los fans y los recién llegados a esta franquicia, una experiencia y un viaje inolvidable, y de eso tratan los videojuegos, de lo que te hacen sentir.
  79. Kevin-N
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    With the budget that they had, compared to the previous games. This game is very well done.
    I play the game with the Japanese voice acting, because i prever that, and i like it alot.
    This game is a masterpiece and a true followup from the first 2 on Dreamcast. It's more RPG than before, because you must eat and level up to master kung-fu. If you liked the previous games, you like this    With the budget that they had, compared to the previous games. This game is very well done.
    I play the game with the Japanese voice acting, because i prever that, and i like it alot.
    This game is a masterpiece and a true followup from the first 2 on Dreamcast.
    It's more RPG than before, because you must eat and level up to master kung-fu.
    If you liked the previous games, you like this game for sure, new gamers should give it a change.
    I can't wait for Shenmue 4.    … Expand
  80. AndyMavis
    Nov 27, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After 18 years we finally get out of the cave! Brings back all the memories of the Dreamcast. Won’t be for everyone as this game needs to be played slowly as you can leave your own life at home and jump into a 1980’s Chinese movie. Mastering Kung fu, catching chickens, finding thugs (not sailors), pail toss, forklifts, chopping wood the list goes on with so much to experience but with the main aim to find Lan Di and avenge your fathers death. Hopefully SEGA get back on board to finish the story for Shenmue 4.… Expand
  81. Horst123
    Nov 27, 2019
    10
    One of the best Games recently published. Play it and dive deep into Chinese culture.
  82. Hazuki38
    Nov 27, 2019
    10
    First, no, I’m not a bot. Yes, I created an account specifically for reviewing this game. Why? Because I have been waiting for it for almost two decades, I backed it on KS and I feel that this game, and Yu Suzuki still need my support. And yes of course I have played the game, game that I could not be happier with!! It has literally everything I was hoping for, and some more. Atmosphere,First, no, I’m not a bot. Yes, I created an account specifically for reviewing this game. Why? Because I have been waiting for it for almost two decades, I backed it on KS and I feel that this game, and Yu Suzuki still need my support. And yes of course I have played the game, game that I could not be happier with!! It has literally everything I was hoping for, and some more. Atmosphere, slower pace, music, story, even the fighting system is good once you get used to it. It’s Shenmue at its best! NO OTHER game allows you to experience what this game does. NONE, period. Yes the dialogue cutscenes could have been better handled, but honestly, after an hour or so, it is not noticeable anymore. And this is certainly not bothering enough to affect my rating, hence the 10/10. When I read that “it looks like a PS2 game”, it’s just plain ridiculous, game is gorgeous. Sure, if what you are after is an action packed game, with big quest markers in the middle of the screen, where you can kill hundreds of NPC’s… then this one is not for you. But if you want to experience something unique, charming, poetic, that has this 80’s feel, that is martial arts focused, where you take your time… Just get it and you’ll be in for a treat!… Expand
  83. Mikepakione
    Nov 29, 2019
    10
    Cant wait for the 4th installment. Beautiful scenes nostalgic shenmue gameplay. Ryo voice actor is the same from the previous 2 iterations. Overall I loved the game the only thing I found could've been better was the fighting seemed too simple and moves weren't as challenging as the first 2 games but you won't veven be bothered by it because the story is amazing.
  84. Mikedie1
    Dec 1, 2019
    10
    Finished the game Today. And enjoyed every minute of it. Its a true shenmue game!
  85. Brownzilian
    Dec 1, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's a good game overall, specially if you have played the previous ones and is a big fan, although it's not nice the clifhanging ending, considering the time we've been waiting for this game.… Expand
  86. aresef
    Dec 6, 2019
    9
    As a backer, criticizing Shenmue III is a tricky matter. It's like going to a fine restaurant, ordering the house specialty and then complaining about the onions or whatever. But primarily, this is Shenmue III as if it had been made in 2003, and that's exactly what I wanted. There are new wrinkles--Ryo loses stamina as he moves around and especially as he runs, so you have to spend yuan onAs a backer, criticizing Shenmue III is a tricky matter. It's like going to a fine restaurant, ordering the house specialty and then complaining about the onions or whatever. But primarily, this is Shenmue III as if it had been made in 2003, and that's exactly what I wanted. There are new wrinkles--Ryo loses stamina as he moves around and especially as he runs, so you have to spend yuan on food. You can make money all kinds of ways--the game doesn't force you into forklifting, though that's an option. But what I like is that nearly everything ties back into beefing up Ryo's kung fu. Find herbs or procure various merchandise or capsule toys, trade them in for scrolls. Earn money, buy scrolls. Buy food, heal up between spars or fights. Gamble, get a diamond, pawn it and buy a scroll.

    Suzuki also gives the people what they want. Forklifts are back. Capsule toys are back. Arcades (though without Sega classics) are back. An entire building in Niaowu celebrates the fans who made the game possible.

    But it seems like all the infrastructure of sidequests and training was built to support a longer game than the one we got. There was supposed to be a third village, Baisha, which presumably due to a budgetary wall turned into the area of the game's climax. The narrative of the game feels a bit papered over, a bit rushed toward the end to account for this change. And the run-up to the events that lead Ryo and Shenhua to leave Bailu are strikingly similar to the events that lead to the game's conclusion. And while the game threads the needle of having talented voice actors and being appropriately camp, there are really frustrating gaffes in the subtitles and script.

    As cinematic as Shenmue was and is, part of the charm is that Ryo can talk up anybody, go anywhere, do anything within the environment of the game. And that is definitely there. But this kind of gameplay and pacing can be an acquired taste for people who didn't fall in love with the games way back or with their re-release. If you love Shenmue, this is more Shenmue. If you're more used to the pace of a Yakuza, this might not be for you.

    Disclosure: I backed the game to the tune of $300 and have my name in the credits.    … Expand
  87. Maxi_Lao
    Dec 6, 2019
    8
    First I'm not a old fan is a new blood
    I played 1&2hd just one year ago
    May be shenmue not a good A-rpg game
    But he still talk a good story
    Some people said this gane play too slow But I still love this play type
    If shenmue4 release I will buy it as soon as possible
    P.s. I bought it from hk psn
  88. ioio32l
    Jun 20, 2020
    8
    Exactly what Shenmue fans from the Dreamcast days asked for, feels like a Dreamcast game, feels like Shenmue, it is the way it should have been! Perfection! Now we just need Shenmue 4 and 5 to fully see the story Yu Suzuki has been trying to tell for so long.
  89. DespairZz
    Nov 24, 2019
    8
    Slow gameplay with great east atmosphere, interested fight system and modern graphic? Like it
    But... in some moments original dilogy (especially 2nd part) is better. You should be ready to this.
    All fans must have, absolutely. All another must played 1st and 2nd parts primarily! I'll await 4th part!
  90. avens
    Jul 25, 2020
    2
    Boring, repetitive, no story progress. It's not really a videogame but a doing chores simulator.
  91. rfederer
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    Shenmue, a game of the heart, to try it is to adopt it.
    This 3rd opus has never split public opinion as much.
    But what game can boast of having 3 sequels to its story?
    Try the FPS vision and discover details of rare richness. [link deleted]
  92. Victikur
    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.
  93. JdaviJones
    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.
  94. eleazaro
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Todo lo que llevo 18 años esperando. No podría pedirle nada más al juego. Finalmente, la saga continúa.
  95. Sobski117
    Nov 19, 2019
    8
    The wait is over! Shenmue III is finally here and it doesn't disappoint. I've been building this game up in my head for so long and it's crazy that for the most part it's met my expectations. The graphics are great (although there is some heavy texture pop-in that hopefully will get improved on in a patch), the story carries on directly from where II left off and also doesn't disappoint.The wait is over! Shenmue III is finally here and it doesn't disappoint. I've been building this game up in my head for so long and it's crazy that for the most part it's met my expectations. The graphics are great (although there is some heavy texture pop-in that hopefully will get improved on in a patch), the story carries on directly from where II left off and also doesn't disappoint. This is a game that fans and those who know what they're getting should enjoy. Performance on the PS4 Pro could be better but hopefully (as with the texture pop-in) that will be ironed out in a future patch.… Expand
  96. Domeni
    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.
  97. Jaoalle
    Nov 25, 2019
    10
    Just an awesome sequel, just for the fans! Its even better than I hoped for, but maybe not for people not familiar to the story. The game is intentionally slow and “awkward”, like the games in the series are. I was afraid that it was going to try to be modern and relevant, but am so happy that it stays true to what Shenmue is. And the graphics are beautiful!
  98. AtheisT_
    Nov 27, 2019
    10
    Quando joguei pela primeira vez Shenmue ficou logo apaixonado pelo jogo, pela primeira vez vi um jogo tão realista em cada para cada missão podias resolver com soluções diferentes, tudo no jogo era detalhado ao pormenor, passou de imediato a ser do meus jogos favoritos na altura juntamente com final fantasy, resident evil e metal gear.
    Depois de muitos anos a espera do Shenmue 3 cheguei a    Quando joguei pela primeira vez Shenmue ficou logo apaixonado pelo jogo, pela primeira vez vi um jogo tão realista em cada para cada missão podias resolver com soluções diferentes, tudo no jogo era detalhado ao pormenor, passou de imediato a ser do meus jogos favoritos na altura juntamente com final fantasy, resident evil e metal gear.
    Depois de muitos anos a espera do Shenmue 3 cheguei a perder a esperança e pensei mesmo que nunca iria sair, quando soube que ia sair o shenmue 3 fiquei com mais entusiasmo do que ff7 remake mas depois de comprar o shenmue 1 e 2 remaster fiquei com grande desilusão o jogo que a 18 anos estava muito a frente do seu tempo estava completamente ultrapassado, o o jogo envelheceu muito mal, os controlos são terríveis e os combates frustrantes.
    Por isso perdi muito expectativa sobre o shenmue 3 e pensei que iria ser uma grande desilusão ao qual me enganei completamente, já a muito tempo que não me divertia tanto a jogar um jogo e dava por mim a jogar horas e horas sem fazer nenhuma missão principal XD.
    Sim Shenmue 3 tem algumas falhas mas 70 de critica é ridículo sei que não é um 10 mas nunca abaixo de 8,5, neste momento a critica dos videojogos está a ficar igual ao do cinema não da para confiar.

    Agora é esperar pelo Shenmue 4.

    Ps: Formiga e André se querem jogar comprem que eu não empresto XD    … Expand
  99. wyno_
    Nov 29, 2019
    10
    This game is the BEST of all time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  100. DJMisterpeluca
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    This game was exactly what I was expecting when it was announced four years ago, it feels so good to play it once again
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Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
67

Mixed or average reviews - based on 78 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 30 out of 78
  2. Mixed: 41 out of 78
  3. Negative: 7 out of 78
  1. PSX Extreme
    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.
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  2. PSX Extreme
    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.
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  3. Cubed3
    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.
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