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 for Shenmue III has sparked excitement among fans, particularly those hoping for Xbox and Nintendo Switch releases. This article explores this development and its potential implications for the future of the Shenmue franchise.

ININ Games' Acquisition Opens Doors to New Platforms

The acquisition of Shenmue III's publishing rights by ININ Games represents a significant step. Originally a PlayStation 4 exclusive (released in 2019, also available on PC), the game's availability on other consoles is now a strong possibility. ININ Games' history of bringing classic titles to multiple platforms fuels speculation about a similar fate for Shenmue III. The potential expansion to Xbox and Switch would significantly broaden the game's reach.

The Continuing Saga of Ryo Hazuki

Shenmue III continues Ryo Hazuki and Shenhua's journey, as they delve deeper into enemy territory to confront Lan Di and uncover the truth behind Ryo's father's murder. The game, powered by Unreal Engine 4, successfully blends classic aesthetics with modern graphics, creating a vibrant and immersive experience. While receiving a "Mostly Positive" rating on Steam (76%), some players have voiced concerns about controller-only gameplay and late Steam key delivery. Despite these issues, the demand for an Xbox and Switch release remains high.

A Shenmue Trilogy on the Horizon?

ININ Games' acquisition could extend beyond Shenmue III. Given their focus on bringing classic titles to modern platforms (currently collaborating with HAMSTER Corporation on a Taito games bundle releasing December 10th), the possibility of a Shenmue I & II rerelease, potentially bundled with Shenmue III, under their banner is a compelling prospect. Shenmue I and II are already available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One, but a unified release from ININ Games could streamline access to the entire trilogy. While no official announcements have been made, the future looks bright for Shenmue fans.