Shenmue III Switch and Xbox Port Now a Real Possibility

ININ Games Acquires Shenmue III Publishing Rights: Xbox and Switch Ports a Real Possibility?

The long-awaited possibility of Shenmue III arriving on new platforms is closer than ever. ININ Games' recent acquisition of the publishing rights has sparked excitement among fans, particularly those hoping for Xbox and Nintendo Switch releases. This article explores the implications of this significant development.

ININ Games' Acquisition and Platform Expansion

The acquisition of Shenmue III's publishing rights by ININ Games represents a major step for the franchise. Originally a PlayStation 4 exclusive (released in 2019, also available on PC), this move opens the door to potential releases on Xbox and Nintendo Switch consoles. ININ Games' history of bringing classic arcade titles to multiple platforms suggests a similar approach for Shenmue III, expanding its reach to a broader audience. The game is currently available digitally and physically on PS4 and PC.

Continuing Ryo's Journey: Shenmue III's Story

Shenmue III continues the saga of Ryo Hazuki and Shenhua, as they delve deeper into the mystery surrounding Ryo's father's murder. Their journey takes them into enemy territory to confront the Chi You Men cartel and Lan Di. Developed using Unreal Engine 4, the game blends classic aesthetics with modern graphics, creating a vibrant and immersive world. While the game currently holds a "Mostly Positive" rating (76%) on Steam, with some users citing controller-only gameplay and late Steam key delivery as drawbacks, the potential for a wider release on new platforms remains highly anticipated.

A Shenmue Trilogy on the Horizon?

The acquisition could also pave the way for a Shenmue trilogy release under ININ Games' banner. ININ Games' expertise in reviving classic titles is evident in their current collaboration with HAMSTER Corporation, bringing various Taito games to modern platforms (e.g., the Rastan Saga series and Runark, launching December 10th). While not officially confirmed, the possibility of a unified Shenmue trilogy release, encompassing Shenmue I and II (available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One since August 2018), is now a tangible prospect. The future of Shenmue looks brighter than ever thanks to ININ Games' strategic move.