Shenmue I & II Releases in Japan Today

Today (November 22nd) is the release of Shenmue I & II in Japan, exclusively for PS4, three months after its international release.

This fantastic image was drawn by @r_wuying (link to tweet).

Twitter is buzzing with tweets of anticipation and excitement, both from former players of the games and those who are excited to try it. Not being available on Steam in Japan, this will be the first time for most there to experience the new version.

The beautifully-packaged Limited Edition comes with a double-CD "Sound Collection" soundtrack (Japan only).
Photo credit: Nin-Nin Game

Gaming magazines and sites have also published articles such as this one from Famitsu [Japanese] introducing the game to newcomers and highlighting improvements made over the originals.

Shenmue-related events are also helping to stoke the Shenmue excitement, with collectible coasters being given away at selected shops in Dobuita, and a Shenmue fan meeting arranged in December.

• Related post: Shenmue Coaster Collectibles in Yokosuka | Shenmue Sacred Spot Campaign

A positive reception in Japan will hopefully translate to robust sales, and stir anticipation for Shenmue III which will release on 27th August of next year.

Link to the official Shenmue I & II site for Japan

Become a Patron!

Shenmue I & II Japan Pre-order Bonuses

Retail outlets in Japan have embraced the upcoming release of Shenmue I & II (scheduled for domestic release in November 22 on PS4), with several offering exclusive pre-order bonuses that will make any collector start to salivate!

Here is a survey of current bonuses on offer in Japan with a pre-order of the Shenmue I & II Regular or Limited edition.

Last updated: 5 October, 2018.
SEGA Japan has now added images of the various bonuses to the official Shenmue I & II website.

Become a Patron!

Exclusive Pre-Order Bonus at SEGA Japan's Online Shop | Shenmue 1&2 Limited Edition

SEGA Japan's official online shop is offering a special exclusive bonus, while stocks last, for customers who pre-order the Japan Limited Edition version of Shenmue I & II (to be released on November 22nd).

The bonus takes the form of a custom-designed "QUO" prepaid card to the value of 500 yen in a custom envelope.

QUO cards can be used to pay for items at convenience stores in Japan, as well as a number of other shops.

QUO cards resemble phone cards and come in many designs.

This bonus was created as a tribute to the daily allowance of 500 yen that Ine-san leaves out for Ryo each day in the first Shenmue game.

Ryo picks up his daily allowance of 500 yen (Shenmue I)

Become a Patron!

Shenmue I & II Japan-Exclusive Limited Edition: Details & How To Order

The Shenmue I & II release date in Japan has been announced - together with a special edition! Phantom River Stone summarizes the key information.

What a fitting announcement for Shenmue Day (on the 3rd of every month) - SEGA knows Shenmue fans will be paying close attention.

The release date for Shenmue I & II in Japan for the PS4 has been announced today on SEGA Japan's Shenmue I & II website as Thursday 22nd November, and together with this they have announced a special Limited Edition! Read on for details.

Become a Patron!