The creator of the mythical SEGA saga continues with his plan to expand the story of Ryo Hazuki in future installments.
The Shenmue saga is back to stay, or at least that's what Yu Suzuki himself, the person in charge of this cult franchise, wants. The also creator of Out Run and Virtua Fighter, among many other titles, has made it clear that his intention is to continue delving into the universe and the story of the protagonist, Ryo Hazuki. However, he believes that a hypothetical Shenmue 4 should reach a broader audience. While in the third installment an attempt was made to please the classic fan, the following should take a step forward.
Speaking to IGN Japan collected by VGC, the director has been honest about it: "I created Shenmue 3 for the fans, but if I have the opportunity to do Shenmue 4 (and I think I will have it) I know how to please casual players, so I I want to make a game that everyone is satisfied with, ”he explains. According to the creative, with the third chapter he responded "to the voices of the fans", so there was no need to "think about making money". However, as a company now manages, the need to create an attractive product to work in the market is a necessity.
Yu Suzuki, creator of Shenmue.
Yu Suzuki's ideas
"There are a few things, like adding mission markers or improving quick travel," he continues. It also points out the importance of designing more refined user interfaces so that the player understands everything perfectly. "I would like to implement mission markers to identify primary and secondary tasks, as well as areas to exchange money or places where you can fight." It also explores the fact of implementing functionalities that allow time to advance.
Suzuki has conducted research on contemporary games, so it will determine what works and what doesn't among the public. "I have ideas on how to improve and incorporate (improvements) without breaking the spirit of Shenmue," he continues. "From a business perspective, it's important to understand what people who know Shenmue think about Shenmue 3." Despite the current trend of open worlds, the developer prefers to narrow the adventure in smaller worlds.
"I did Shenmue 3 for the fans, but next time I want to create something new." Despite this, he shows his willingness to write a new chapter for the history of this saga, as long as there is demand from the followers. "I hope those who waited for Shenmue 3 for 20 years and liked it show the same enthusiasm for Shenmue 4."
Shenmue 3 went on sale in 2019 for PS4 and PC.
Source | VGC
