Shenmue III Publishing Rights Transferred to ININ Games, Promises of a Thriving Legacy

In a significant development for the beloved Shenmue franchise, publishing rights for Shenmue III have officially been transferred from Deep Silver to ININ Games. Known for their dedication to bringing Japanese titles to global audiences, ININ Games is stepping in at a pivotal time for the series, marking the 25th anniversary of the franchise and the fifth anniversary of Shenmue III.

A New Chapter for Shenmue III

Released in 2019 for PlayStation 4 and PC (via the Epic Games Store), Shenmue III expanded to Steam and GOG a year later, continuing the journey of Ryo Hazuki. Deep Silver previously held publishing rights, known for titles like Dead Island: Riptide and Metro Redux. Now, ININ Games is set to carry the torch forward, potentially introducing the game to new platforms and audiences.

ININ Games expressed their excitement, stating:

"Following the previous collaboration on Air Twister, this will deepen the relationship with the legendary creator Yu Suzuki and his team. Known for our commitment to celebrating beloved titles and bringing them to new platforms, ININ Games is excited to shepherd Shenmue III into its next phase."

What’s Next for Shenmue?

While ININ Games hasn’t shared specific details on their plans for Shenmue III or the franchise, they’ve hinted at future announcements to celebrate its legacy. There’s speculation that the game could be brought to additional platforms, including Xbox Series X|S and possibly Nintendo Switch, giving a new generation of players the chance to experience the series.

The company reassured fans with the following statement:

"With this transfer, the story of Shenmue is far from over. We have exciting plans to celebrate these anniversaries, ensuring that this beloved series continues to thrive and inspire. Keep an eye out for upcoming announcements as we unveil our vision for the next phase of Shenmue's legacy."

A Tribute to Fans

As ININ Games takes the reins, their commitment to both long-time fans and newcomers highlights the enduring passion behind Shenmue. Their focus on honoring the series’ legacy while exploring new opportunities is an exciting prospect for fans who’ve followed Ryo Hazuki’s journey for over two decades.