Back to the newsfeed

EGX + Comic- Con 2024, Shenmue News, Game Previous and more!

Posted on October 29, 2024 at 19:00 PM GMT

Coming into EGX/Comic-Con on the heels of an intense Gamescom 2024, there was always going to be a need to manage expectations regarding the scope of the event. Last year’s EGX showcased a solid mix of publishers, retro gaming, and retailers. So, when the announcement came to merge EGX with Comic-Con (1 side EGX, 1 Side Comic Con), there was understandable trepidation about the impact this might have on the games on display. On the ground, it was clear that the merger helped bring in crowds but seemingly at the expense of the gaming presence, apart from Call of Duty, Horizon Lego, Little Nightmares, and Dragon Ball Z. Notably, three of these titles were either already available or set to release that same weekend, which lessened the incentive for attendees to attend when there’s such a limited amount of new games on offer.

That said, it would be unfair to place all the blame on the organizers, who face significant challenges. In-person gaming events are dwindling, with Gamescom proving a notable exception. From a business standpoint, organizers must strike a balance between creating a viable, appealing event that can endure in the post-Covid landscape and attract attendees, despite the decline of traditional expos. Additionally, many publishers have already released their major titles, leaving less to showcase. Nintendo, for instance, is primarily focused on the Switch 2, limiting its first-party offerings at this late stage in the Switch’s life cycle. SEGA would likely have only had the new Yakuza Pirate game to feature, though this alone could arguably have been a worthwhile showcase, especially given their strong presence last year with Gaiden and Infinite Wealth.

Pictured: Last Years SEGA Booth

The BBC’s live coverage summarized the situation aptly:

“This is the UK’s biggest consumer show for games, but this year it’s different. EGX has been absorbed into MCM Comic Con for the first time. While that might mean more for fans to see and do, it’s also potentially a worrying sign for the games industry. Many big brands pulled out of the show as a post-pandemic global downturn in games hit marketing budgets. There’s also less here to play, with a quiet few months for games ahead as job cuts and a strike in the US hit development schedules. Some of the big ones, like the highly anticipated new Assassin’s Creed, have been delayed to 2025. Organisers here will be hoping that by combining the shows, they can keep the EGX alive, while getting a bigger audience for exhibitors sticking with them.” https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/cgqy2dypdw0t

This is not to say there wasn’t plenty to enjoy. Attendees could meet actors, purchase artwork, play games, attend panels, and appreciate the vibrant cosplay on display. Entering the event, the obvious gap was the lack of Shenmue news, with our goals focused on covering the games, expanding skillsets, and networking. However, there was a small piece of (frustrating) Shenmue news from the event that we can share.

Shenmue News

On the Comic-Con side of the event, a stall was set up selling Tubbz Ducks. As readers will know, Ryo Hazuki was one of the first Tubbz Ducks, so naturally, exploring this store was a must. Upon entering, visitors were greeted with a vast array of Ducks from various franchises, including films, games, TV shows, and more. Of course, the hunt for Ryo Hazuki was on, but he was nowhere to be found. After asking one of the stall attendants, we stumbled upon a conversation with one of the co-founders of Numbskull, the creators of the Tubbz line who hold the SEGA license to produce certain merchandise.

Regarding Ryo Hazuki, he mentioned that 3,000 ducks were initially made and that they now only have about ten left—a great achievement that Numbskull is pleased with. However, there’s more context here. Four years ago, it was announced that both Ryo and Kazuma Kiryu ducks would be produced in the first line of Tubbz Ducks. Both went on sale simultaneously, and this is where the numbers tell a story: while Ryo sold steadily over time, Kazuma sold out within days, illustrating the unfortunate popularity gap between the two franchises. From a business perspective, this affects profitability as funds remain tied up in Shenmue items longer, delaying a quick return on investment (ROI) despite eventual profitability. Businesses must balance ROI and the speed at which they can reinvest in new products, and Shenmue’s slower sales create a challenge compared to more popular franchises.

Pictured: Ryo Hazuki and Kazuma Kiryu Tubbz Duck

A similar situation arose with the Ryo Heartbeats Bar Statue, released in August 2022. Though the statue sold well and generated profit, it did not sell quickly enough to sustain plans for an extended series of statues that were in early concept stages. This series would have included:

  • Ryo and his Forklift – Initially a top contender for production, it was delayed due to the popularity of the forklift meme, which may have actually helped its sales potential, given the humour around Shenmue’s forklift theme.
  • Ryo playing QTE Title
Pictured Ryo Hazuki Numbskull Statue

Both statues sounded fantastic, and it’s a shame they weren’t made. However, there is still hope. Should a new Shenmue game release, Numbskull would be eager to produce more Shenmue merchandise and is looking for the right moment to make this possible. Additionally, Numbskull noted that they brought in 50 of the music boxes made by Wayo Records for SEGA Shop, which sold out very quickly. This trend suggests that Shenmue merchandise may benefit from being positioned as higher-end collectibles, as indicated by their sales data.

Pictured: Wayo Records Shenmue Music Box

Finally, this all underscores the importance of community support for Shenmue merchandise. When new items become available, supporting these releases (where possible, as everyone has their own financial responsibilities) ensures a greater likelihood of continued Shenmue merchandise down the line. The next opportunity is the Limited Run Games Shenmue line when that is announced!

Testing the Games

As part of the show it would be considered rude not to play some games. Two games were tested showing off very different aesthetics and styles!

Lego Horizon – PS5 and Switch

The first game tested was LEGO’s take on Sony’s Horizon: Zero Dawn. Fans of the original game on PS4 or PS5 will recognize its serious tone, exploring humanity’s collapse and rebirth in a world on the brink of a new beginning, fraught with the dangers posed by the machines that roam the earth.

Pictured: Lego Horizon Booth

LEGO games have always embraced a playful, tongue-in-cheek humour with platform-based gameplay, so seeing how LEGO tackled Horizon was intriguing. Adapting the humour and formula of LEGO to a game like Horizon was a tall order, yet from this playtest, it’s clear they’ve succeeded. The game transforms Horizon into a 3D action platformer, retaining core elements from the original but in a simplified, LEGO-typical style. Players can still shoot machines with arrows, use Aloy’s Focus, level up, and more, all with a LEGO twist.

Two visual modes were available, and performance mode was tested. Visually, the game presented a smooth 60fps on the PS5, though the exact resolution wasn’t specified. Technically, the game showed no issues and currently has no plans for PS5 Pro enhancements—not that it seems to need any.

Pictured- Gameplay – Courtesy Lego Games

After selecting a visual mode, players are launched into the opening cut-scene, a clever LEGO-style recreation of the original game’s beginning. The humour shines here, with young Aloy portrayed as a mischievous character, causing her adoptive father, Rost, plenty of trouble. It’s a noticeably lighter tone than the original, but a welcome one. Following this scene, players enter the tutorial before unlocking the option to play co-op (more on that later) and explore additional areas. Controls are straightforward: X to jump, Square to shoot arrows (holding it down increases power and control), and Triangle to pick up and throw objects or characters.

The game operates on a waypoint system, guiding players through each level but allowing for optional exploration. Naturally, exploring rewards players with special items and power-ups that enhance Aloy’s abilities as the game progresses. Each level follows a familiar but satisfying loop of running, jumping, and shooting, either solo or in Co-op mode.

Pictured: Cutscene – Courtesy Lego Games.

Co-op mode introduces a second player, allowing them to team up with Aloy to tackle the levels. In the demo, the second character available was Rost, but it’s safe to assume other key characters will appear later on. While Co-op mode doesn’t add new features (at least in this demo), it allows another player to join in on the fun.

Overall, this game is a solid addition to the LEGO series, successfully adapting Horizon’s elements into LEGO’s tried-and-true formula. The release date is set for November 15, 2025, on PS5 and Switch.

Little Nightmares 3PS5 and Xbox Series Consoles

The gameplay demo for Little Nightmares III gave us a chilling yet exhilarating glimpse into the latest instalment of this beloved series. Stepping into the hauntingly atmospheric world that Little Nightmares fans know and love, it’s clear the developers have dialled up the eerie ambiance and tension in this new title. From the very start, Little Nightmares III immerses players in its dark, unsettling environments, where each shadow seems to hold a hidden terror, and every corner beckons with ominous mystery.

The demo introduced two new protagonists, Low and Alone, who must rely on each other to navigate the treacherous world filled with lurking dangers and twisted creatures. True to Little Nightmares style, the cooperative element brings a unique twist to the puzzles, as players control both characters in a harrowing journey through dimly lit, unsettling landscapes. The puzzles have taken on a new level of depth, encouraging players to use each character’s strengths in creative ways. Together, Low and Alone must figure out how to bypass obstacles, whether through teamwork or, at times, separation—adding a subtle layer of strategy and suspense to each encounter.

Pictured: Cutscene and Co-op mode

Visually, the game is stunning. The attention to detail in the environments is remarkable, from the flickering lights casting long, creepy shadows to the textures of the objects scattered throughout. The developers have done an incredible job at creating a palpable sense of dread, and it’s clear that every visual element has been meticulously crafted to add to the game’s unsettling atmosphere. On performance, the demo ran seamlessly, showcasing the game’s refined mechanics and fluid animations on PS5.

Combat remains limited, putting the focus on stealth and puzzle-solving rather than direct confrontation. This restraint only heightens the tension, as players find themselves trying to slip past horrifying creatures rather than taking them head-on. It’s a familiar yet welcome approach, keeping the game’s focus on the nerve-wracking suspense that fans expect from Little Nightmares.

The most thrilling addition, however, is the new co-op mode, which adds a fresh dynamic to the gameplay. Having two players’ means doubling down on the tension, as teamwork becomes essential for survival. It’s an experience that will leave you gripping your controller, making every step and decision a heart-pounding one. The exact mechanics of this in practice are yet to be seen but at first glance look exciting.

Pictured: Little Nightmares Booth

Overall, Little Nightmares III feels like a powerful evolution of the series, amplifying the eerie charm, mystery, and suspense that make these games so memorable. For fans of the franchise and newcomers alike, this instalment is shaping up to be an unforgettable journey into the dark. The game is due for release on PS5 and Xbox Series Consoles in 2025.

Other Activites

While this year’s Shenmue meet-up was smaller than last, the passion among attendees was undeniable, with hope and enthusiasm for Shenmue 4 stronger than ever, alongside some teasers for what’s to come in December’s Tweetathon.

Naturally, the retro stores were thoroughly searched for deals on classic favorites, intriguing items were explored, and—perhaps most importantly—the arcade and retro section was back in full force, where a considerable amount of time was spent. This section has always been a highlight at EGX, and this year was no exception. Between a vast selection of arcade machines (including the arcade version of Super Monkey Ball) and retro consoles, it was refreshing to see this area bustling with people of all ages, whether they were revisiting childhood memories or experiencing these classics for the first time.

Pictured Outrun and Virtua Racing – Picture Credit James Browm

One highlight was the discovery of WWE(F) No Mercy on the N64, which led to a thrilling trilogy of tag-team matches: Matt and Paddy faced off against Tim and James. After two intense bouts, Matt and Paddy emerged victorious, going 2-0 to claim the tag-team title and advance to WrestleMania! Later, another match saw Matt and Tim on one team and Paddy and Flag on the other. This showdown had all the drama of a 60-minute Iron Man Match (though it actually lasted around nine minutes), with interrupted finishers, broken stairs, and plenty of mayhem. In the end, Tim and Matt stood victorious in a match worthy of the main event.

Pictured: WWE No Mercy – Picture Credit James Brown

But the chaos didn’t end there. A new (old) discovery awaited in Micro Machines 2 on the Mega Drive. This multiplayer classic, equipped with a J-cart to support four players, is a staple of retro gaming and delivers pure, delightful chaos. A tournament soon began between James, Matt, Tim, and Flag, where skillful driving, sneaky tactics, and blind luck led to victories, close defeats, and lots of laughs. This experience was a perfect reminder of the golden era of couch multiplayer—when gaming was all about friendship, fierce competition, and sheer fun. It’s a reminder of what gaming has always been about and should continue to be.

Pictured Micro Machines 2

Overall, EGX and Comic-Con 2024 proved to be a fantastic event, though it could have benefitted from a bit more publisher representation on the gaming side. Events like this are essential to keep alive. With the shift toward online delivery, it’s tempting for both publishers and patrons to choose more cost-effective options. Yet, these options can’t capture the community spirit or the invaluable in-person networking that these events offer. Looking forward to seeing everyone at EGX 2025!

No comments found.

Site Search

Support Us

Buy us a Capsule Toy! - "Maybe I should get another?"

Follow the Dojo

Follow the Shenmue Dojo for the latest Shenmue related content.