Ever since Shenmue 3 was announced at E3 2015 and smashed through its Kickstarter campaign, fans of the series have been clamouring to hear more about the game. But alas, you’re going to have to wait a little longer to see any of Shenmue 3 as it’s skipping E3 2017.
Writing on the Shenmue 3 Kickstarter page, developer Ys Net explained that the studio will be focusing on development in June rather than showing off the game at any events
“While our schedule has yet to be finalised, we will be devoting June to game development and as a result, will unfortunately not be participating in any game shows,” explained Ys Net. “On the other hand, we look forward to bringing you our monthly updates and hope you do too!”
The developer goes on to say that the company will still continue its monthly Kickstarter updates, and this time we’ve got a glimpse of a new character for the game.
“Who’s this new face…? Please check it out!” reads the post. Head over to the Shenmue 3 Kickstarter to have a look at the incredibly muscly new character.
The last time we saw Shenmue 3 was in December when Ys Net shared three work-in-progress screenshots.
In that post, the team explained that “R&D for various game elements is on course as the development team shifts its focus towards production. Main game scenarios are nearing completion, motion capture tests are well under way, and voicing tests with the cast have begun.”
Shenmue creator Yu Suzuki also admitted that this third entry in the series has taken over his life somewhat, but in a really good way.
“I have been completely absorbed in development [of] Shenmue 3 recently and often stay at the studio throughout the night to make it the best game possible,” said Suzuki. “My life has become Shenmue both day and night, and I’m happy.”
Shenmue 3 is scheduled for release in December 2017, but whether that will happen is still very much up for debate.