It was announced during the SEGA FES 2018 stream that Shenmue I & II will be releasing on PlayStation 4 in Japan this year. The title will also be released in North America and Europe. From the footage shown, it looked like the games will be receiving an upgrade for wide-screen support. We do not know when the title will be released in the West but for now, let’s be happy that a new generation of players can enjoy these great games.
UPDATE: SEGA of America have released the following tweet confirming that the release will feature both the English and Japanese voice overs along with modern controls. They also released a trailer you can watch below:
You’ve asked, we listened and we’re extremely excited to finally announce that Shenmue I & II are coming to PS4, Xbox One and PC in one package! Both games will feature Japanese and English voice overs, the choice of classic or modern controls and more! #ShenmueSaved pic.twitter.com/EvtcEt5pgn
— SEGA (@SEGA) April 14, 2018
UPDATE 2: We have an official presss release confirming that the title will not only get a physical release but will also be available for Xbox One and Steam.
SEGA® Europe Ltd. is proud to announce that the pioneering epic saga Shenmue™ I & II is to be re-released for a new generation. Get ready to go on a thrilling voyage across faithful recreations of Japan and Hong Kong, China, in a timeless tale of revenge and mystery when Shenmue I & II launches both physically and digitally on PlayStation® 4 and Xbox® One with a PC release on Steam in 2018.
Check out the announcement trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPtlofIccAk
Since their original release, Shenmue I & II have established a passionate following and are revered as one of gaming’s greatest series of all time. These revolutionary masterpieces deliver a gripping story of retribution as Ryo Hazuki sets out to avenge his father’s death and attempts to unravel the secrets behind a mysterious artefact known as the Dragon Mirror.
Shenmue I & II comes complete with the original feature set that defined modern gaming, including enthralling jujitsu combat, investigative sleuthing, and RPG elements in addition to memorable mini-games. Shenmue I & II is set within engrossing real-time open worlds that feel truly alive thanks to day-to-night cycles and weather changes, with a population of civilians who follow their own schedules.
This is the definitive version of these all-time classics and will be the best Shenmue experience to date. The re-release will stay true to the originals with modernised features including fully scalable screen resolution, choice of modern or classic control schemes, PC graphics options, an updated user interface and the option to enjoy either the original Japanese or English voiceovers.
The physical and digital editions will be available to pre-order from first party stores, Steam and US and EMEA retailers soon. For all the latest information on Shenmue I & II, head over to: https://shenmue.sega.com/