Category:Shenmue

Shenmue is an open-world action-adventure game series created by Yu Suzuki, following 18-year-old martial artist Ryo Hazuki as he seeks revenge for his father's murder by a mysterious Chinese gangster named Lan Di.  Set in the 1980s, the series blends exploration, investigation, and life simulation with elements of martial arts combat, quick-time events (QTEs), and mini-games. Players experience a richly detailed world with dynamic day-night cycles, realistic NPC routines, and real-time weather, all contributing to an immersive, cinematic experience. Originally planned as a 16-chapter saga, only two main games were released—Shenmue (1999) and Shenmue II (2001/2002)—with a third installment crowdfunded and released in 2019. The series is celebrated for its groundbreaking ambition, innovative gameplay, and deep world-building, despite its slow pacing and high production cost.