We are learning more and more about what to expect at Gamescom over the next few days, and we can add a title from creator Yu Suzuki in the form of a Shenmue 3 Enhanced Edition. For fans on Nintendo and Xbox this is especially exciting as it will be the first time the game launches on those platforms.
Details are scarce at the moment but publisher ININ Games has said the enhanced edition will indeed be coming to Xbox Series and Nintendo Switch (they don’t specify if it’s Switch or Switch 2 as of yet). The title will also release on PlayStation 5 and PC.
The official unveiling will take place at Gamescom, presumably during Open Night Live.
Released in 2019, 18 years after Shenmue 2, Shenmue 3 is the third game in the classic trilogy, however it is generally considered the weakest of the series. It is the lowest rated of the 3 games, although fans seemed to enjoy it more than critics. Hopefully these upgrades will bring the third up to a quality of the first 2.
In Shenmue 3 players control Ryo Hazuki, a teen martial artist who is trying to solve his father’s murder and exact revenge on the killer. While currently the end of the trilogy Yu Suzuki has said he hopes to create a Shenmue 4 and 5.
For those who already own the game on PC and PlayStation 4, you will have the option of an upgrade path. Details will come soon, presumably after the official unveiling.
Key Enhancements:
- Enhanced Graphics & Performance _ Sharper textures, richer details, faster load times, and smoother gameplay.
- 4K Texture Uplift _ Refined, more detailed environments and characters.
- DLSS/FSR Support _ High-quality upscaling without sacrificing performance (supported platforms only).
- Increased NPC Density _ The city village Niaowu feels more alive with more characters populating the streets.
- Classic Camera Mode _ An optional camera perspective inspired by Shenmue I & II, alongside the modern view.
- Gameplay Tweaks _ Optional stamina system adjustments, health restoration before fights, and reduced money barriers for smoother progression.
- Improved Interactions _ Cutscene and conversation skip options, expanded QTE timing window for more accessible gameplay.
- Menu & UX Enhancements _ Streamlined navigation and helpful purchase alerts.
- Optionality First _ All major changes can be toggled to preserve the original experience for purists.
