Shenmue II

 Xbox
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
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  1. TeamXbox
    74
    If you are not intrigued by intense storylines and great original gameplay at least go give this baby a rent, you will not be disappointed.
  2. GameSpot
    73
    The end result doesn't quite live up to those expectations--for one thing, it's easy to tell that Shenmue II was originally a Dreamcast game, since its technical aspects aren't nearly as impressive now as Shenmue's were in 2000.
  3. Xbox Nation Magazine
    70
    Rarely has so much sheer brilliance been nestled side-by-side with such absolute tedium and badly conceived gameplay, along with wild shifts in tone guaranteed to make your head spin. [Winter 2002, p.88]
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  5. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    70
    When I wasn't being mugged by the Bad Voice-Actors Brigade or rendered comatose by the game's tepid pace, I was struggling with the enormous chore of just moving around thanks to the clunky, imprecise, sub-"Resident Evil" controls. [Dec 2002, p.260]
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  6. All Game Guide
    70
    Worth the wait, despite the fact that from a technical standpoint the sequel isn't a major step above the Dreamcast original.
  7. netjak
    68
    While not a very good fighting game, a very minimal puzzle game and a boring RPG – The total package is truly more than the sum of its parts.
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  8. Eurogamer
    60
    Ultimately, your perseverance with the sluggish pacing can be rewarding, but Shenmue 2 consistently proves itself an ageing game with ageing looks. It should never have happened like this.
  9. Gamer's Pulse
    60
    Only the most hardcore gamers will be able to look past the occasionally monotonous gameplay and poor audio and visuals to enjoy Shenmue II.
  10. Cheat Code Central
    60
    The game may not have much in the way of replay value, but for bang for your buck, I think it packs enough punch the first time through.

Awards & Rankings

35
#35 Best Xbox Game of 2002
6
#6 Most Discussed Xbox Game of 2002
3
#3 Most Shared Xbox Game of 2002

User Reviews

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User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 161 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 142 out of 161
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 161
  3. Negative: 15 out of 161
  1. AlexR.
    May 28, 2007
    10
    For me, this is the best video game ever made. Simple as that. No game has given me as much meaningfull pleasure as this one. There are not For me, this is the best video game ever made. Simple as that. No game has given me as much meaningfull pleasure as this one. There are not enough kind words to lavish upon this title. If you miss out on the Shenmue experience, then you will be missing out on video game history. Emotional...… Full Review »
  2. pookie
    Jun 28, 2012
    10
    This is essentially the same game as the original, but expanded into more chapters. The original serves as chapter 1. With that said ShenmueThis is essentially the same game as the original, but expanded into more chapters. The original serves as chapter 1. With that said Shenmue II seems more grand and epic than the original. The world is huge. These games were ahead of their time.… Full Review »
  3. [Anonymous]
    Mar 19, 2003
    10
    Best game.
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