The November 2011 edition of PSM3 is carrying a mysterious rumor regarding a potential new entry in the fan-favorite Shenmue franchise, speculating that Sega may be actively working on the long-awaited Shenmue 3 for the PS3.
The respected gaming publication points readers toward a telling statement made by Sega, with the publisher stating that it intends to "continue reinventing classic IP"–fuelingthedistinctpossibility that the announcement of a brand new Shenmue title may be looming on the horizon.
Shenmue designer Yu Suzuki previously told 1UP that "the concept for Shenmue 3 already exists", however, plans for the title were reportedly shelved due to less-than-stellar sales of it's predecessor and expensive budget implications for a sequel– the final figure for Shenmue 3supposedlyballoonedto over $70 million at one point.
"The concept for Shenmue 3 already exists, so… The world of Shenmue 1 and 2 expanded outward. But Shenmue 3 doesn't expand outward, but inward.
"A lot of the dialogue is used for the main character and especially dialogue with Shenhua. They talk about a lot of different, deeper things. For example, and I can't say too much, but here's an example.
"This is not actually in the game, but as an example to give you an idea of what I mean by deeper dialogue, when Shenhua and Ryo are at home, Shenhua will ask Ryo if he would like to drink tea or coffee and the player will select one or the other."
cvg previously ran a very successful feature on whether fans would want a sequel to Shenmue 2, with the passionate response prompting Mike Hayes, President of Sega West, to comment on the situation.
"While at present we have no plans for the franchise [on next-gen consoles], the response to CVG's question has certainly shown the Shenmue legacy ignites a lot of passion among fans. Never say never…"
The idea of a new title in the much-appreciated Shenmue franchise is tantalizing to say the least, however, take this rumor with a pinch of salt until further confirmation arrives. Check out the rumor below, and in the latest issue of PSM3.
"Following an announcement that Sega are reinventing Virtua Fighter for PSN, the publisher has said that it plans to 'continue reinventing ****c IP'. Cue speculation that we'll finally see Shenmue 3, plus remakes of Golden Axe and Jet Set Radio."
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