http://boards.sega.com/sega/viewtopic.php?t=20546
In a recent press conference about Shenmue Online Yu Suzuki revealed further information. According to Suzuki, SEGA is in talks with operators to release Shenmue Online in the US, Europe, Japan and Taiwan, though the operation of Shenmue Online might be more difficult overseas. It seems that SEGA is in talks with various candidates, but certain names were not given. When asked if Shenmue Online was the anticipated direct sequel to the acclaimed series, Yu Suzuki did not answer the question but commented that it could be possible to integrate the action and tale of Shenmue and Shenmue II . But as the player does not control Ryo Hazuki himself, it is fairly obvious that Shenmue Online is a spin-off while SEGA has "every intention to build upon the strenghts of this franchise".
Whereas Shenmue Online will ship for the PC in early 2005 , rumors say that SEGA indeed follows plans for a re-release of the original series. Platforms and the concrete shape of this re-release are unknown.
But as Shenmue Online is apparently NOT A PC-EXCLUSIVE, we might see further versions of this title on other platforms.
This news was translated by Kiyuu of the Shenmue Dojo Forums.
In a recent press conference about Shenmue Online Yu Suzuki revealed further information. According to Suzuki, SEGA is in talks with operators to release Shenmue Online in the US, Europe, Japan and Taiwan, though the operation of Shenmue Online might be more difficult overseas. It seems that SEGA is in talks with various candidates, but certain names were not given. When asked if Shenmue Online was the anticipated direct sequel to the acclaimed series, Yu Suzuki did not answer the question but commented that it could be possible to integrate the action and tale of Shenmue and Shenmue II . But as the player does not control Ryo Hazuki himself, it is fairly obvious that Shenmue Online is a spin-off while SEGA has "every intention to build upon the strenghts of this franchise".
Whereas Shenmue Online will ship for the PC in early 2005 , rumors say that SEGA indeed follows plans for a re-release of the original series. Platforms and the concrete shape of this re-release are unknown.
But as Shenmue Online is apparently NOT A PC-EXCLUSIVE, we might see further versions of this title on other platforms.
This news was translated by Kiyuu of the Shenmue Dojo Forums.
