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, thanks to ININ Games' acquisition of the game's publishing rights. This development has ignited excitement among fans, particularly those hoping for Xbox and Nintendo Switch releases.

ININ Games' Acquisition Opens Doors for Wider Release

The acquisition of Shenmue III's publishing rights by ININ Games marks a significant step for the beloved franchise. Originally a PlayStation 4 exclusive (released in 2019, also available on PC), this move suggests a potential expansion to other consoles. ININ Games, known for its multi-platform releases of classic arcade titles, could bring Shenmue III to a much broader audience. While no official announcements have been made regarding specific platforms, the possibility of Xbox and Switch ports is strongly suggested.

Shenmue III: A Continued Journey for Ryo and Shenhua

Following a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2015, Shenmue III continued the saga of Ryo Hazuki and Shenhua, taking them on a thrilling adventure to uncover the truth behind his father's murder. The game, built using Unreal Engine 4, blends classic aesthetics with modern graphics, creating a captivating and immersive experience. While receiving a "Mostly Positive" rating on Steam (76%), some user feedback highlighted minor issues, fueling further anticipation for potential improvements in future ports.

Could a Shenmue Trilogy Be on the Horizon?

The acquisition could also pave the way for a Shenmue trilogy release under ININ Games' umbrella. With their proven track record of bringing classic titles to modern platforms (including a collaboration with HAMSTER Corporation on Taito games), the possibility of a bundled release of Shenmue I, II, and III is highly intriguing. Shenmue I and II are currently available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One, making this a potentially lucrative and highly sought-after package. While unconfirmed, the acquisition of Shenmue III significantly increases the likelihood of this happening.