68
MONSTER
"Originally released for the Dreamcast in 2000 and 2001, Shenmue I & II is an open world action adventure combining jujitsu combat, investigative sleuthing, RPG elements, and memorable mini-games. It pioneered many aspects of modern gaming, including open world city exploration, and was the game that coined the Quick Time Event (QTE). It was one of the first games with a persistent open world, where day cycles to night, weather changes, shops open and close and NPCs go about their business all on their own schedules. Its engrossing epic story and living world created a generation of passionate fans, and the game consistently makes the list of “greatest games of all time”."
Game analysis
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Reviews
101 reviews found70
Hardcore Gamer
Nov 27, 2019
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Shenmue III is a Shenmue title that may not be perfect, but it offers a unique experience that fans of the series will enjoy.
70
Push Square
Dec 16, 2019
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Shenmue III is a faithful follow-up for franchise fans, but newcomers may find it confusing. It defies contemporary conventions and remains relevant after 18 years.
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70
Destructoid
Nov 22, 2019
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Shenmue III's adherence to the past may not be worth it in spurts, but it is a unique and rare experience that may not be replicated.
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70
Windows Central
Nov 30, 2019
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Shenmue III is a good game in terms of story, but its dated design, clunky combat, poor voice acting, and archaic menus harm the experience. The lack of a concrete resolution to the saga and the underwhelming climax are also criticized. The game may not appeal to newcomers or younger players.
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65
PlayStation LifeStyle
Nov 25, 2019
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The reviewer is disappointed with the lack of improvement and hopes for a fourth and final game to conclude the series.
60
Game Informer
Nov 26, 2019
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Despite its issues, Shenmue III is a nostalgic experience that may appeal to fans of the series. It scratches an itch and reminds players why the series was important, but also highlights why a third entry took so long to release.
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60
AusGamers
Dec 10, 2019
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Shenmue III is a game that is out of step with modern times, but still charming and emotionally engaging for fans of the series.
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60
CGMagazine
Nov 25, 2019
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Shenmue III is a game that will appeal to fans of the series, but may not satisfy casual audiences. It feels like a game from a different era with slow gameplay and archaic mechanics.
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60
Impulsegamer
Dec 6, 2019
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The game is described as 'middle of the road' and 'out of fashion', but it will please players who enjoyed the prequels. The reviewer suggests a potential interest in a sequel to Jet Set Radio instead.
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60
GameSpew
Nov 22, 2019
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Shenmue 3 is primarily for fans of the series who have played and adored the previous games. It is described as a double-edged sword, with some finding it engrossing but others disappointed by its lack of progressiveness.
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