Since our huge artwork release a year ago, we never expected to come across another batch. However, here we are again in 2026 with a fascinating look at 23 more pieces of early Shenmue / Virtua Fighter RPG concept artwork. These artworks are a mix of both Black & White and Full Colour character illustrations, featuring prominant main characters from all 3 Shenmue games. There’s even some never before seen characters! Many thanks to Switch from (PhantomRiverStone.com) for all notes and translations.
Unknown Character Named “Lei” – B&W Illustration
This character looks like a confident, composed warrior or noble fighter. They have long, dark hair tied back in a loose braid and a sharp, self-assured expression. Their outfit combines practicality and style: a fitted tunic with decorative fastenings and sturdy pants with shoes. One hand rests casually at their side while the other suggests readiness, giving off a calm but capable presence, someone skilled, disciplined, and possibly of high rank or status.
Text:
雷 = “Lei”
Note:
Lei means “Thunder” in Chinese.
Unknown Character Named “Zhou Sihai” – B&W Illustration
This character appears to be an older, weathered man with a stern and hardened demeanor. He has long, unkempt hair and a very long, straight beard, giving him a somewhat austere, almost ascetic look. His clothing is simple and worn, a loose tunic tied at the waist and patched trousers, suggesting a life of hardship or poverty. His clenched fists and intense expression hint at resilience and inner strength, as if he’s endured a difficult past and remains tough despite it.
Text:
周四海 = “Zhou Sihai”
Note:
Sihai means “Four Seas” in Chinese.
Shenhua – B&W Illustration
Shenhua is posed here with a gentle, reserved demeanor. She has neatly braided hair tucked under a soft cap, and her expression is calm, slightly shy or introspective. Her clothing is modest and practical, a long apron over a simple dress suggesting she may be a worker, possibly in a domestic or rural setting. Her posture, with one hand lightly touching her chest, gives her a thoughtful and quietly kind presence.
Text:
星花 (シェンファ) = “Shenhua”
Mao (Fei’s Fiancée) – B&W Illustration
This character comes across as lively and energetic, with a playful yet confident personality. She’s dressed in layered, warm clothing with decorative trim, suggesting a colder climate. Her arms are spread wide and her stance is dynamic, as if she’s mid-dance or greeting someone enthusiastically. Her expression is bright and self-assured, giving the impression of someone spirited, sociable, and full of charm.
Text:
フェイの婚約者 = Fei’s fiancée
Note:
Fei was previously found to be the early name of Wuying Ren. It would seem that Mao, the character we previously uncovered was originally intended to be a strong romantic interest for Ren!
Reihō (Suzaku in disguise) – B&W Illustration
Dressed in a traditional Chinese-style outfit with a high-collared top and decorative loop fastenings, this figure wears loose, long sleeves with softly shaded fabric that shows gentle folds. Her upright posture and stillness give a calm, composed presence.
Text:
レイホー (朱雀の変装) = Reihō (Suzaku in disguise)
Note:
Reihō is the Japanese pronunciation for “Li Feng”.
Suzaku was one of the original names for Niao Sun.
Unknown Character (Suzaku’s Subordinate) – B&W Illustration
A fitted Chinese-style outfit with a high collar and asymmetrical front is paired with a knee-length skirt and simple shoes. A cape-like layer drapes over the shoulders, featuring an embroidered bird motif, and a rounded hat with a small ornament sits on her head. Caught mid-step, she appears poised and balanced.
Text:
朱雀 部下 = Suzaku’s subordinate
Note:
Suzaku was one of the original names for Niao Sun.
This character, whilst similar in appearence to Niao Sun, interestingly appears to be more of an assistant.
Niao Sun (Suzaku) -B&W Illustration
A sleeveless, fitted Chinese-style dress with a high collar and a long skirt split high along one side defines the silhouette. An ornate bird motif decorates the lower half, complemented by long gloves and heeled shoes. One arm raised behind her head and hair flowing outward, she carries a confident air.
Text:
朱雀 = Suzaku [Zhuque]
Note:
Suzaku was one of the original names for Niao Sun.
The Zhuque, or Vermilion Bird, is one of the Four Symbols of Chinese constellations, representing the Fire element, the southern direction, and the summer season.
Chai? (Hu Wang) – B&W Illustration
Broad-shouldered and heavily muscled, this man has a bald head with a strip of hair trailing along the back and a stern, intense gaze. His bare upper body reveals pronounced musculature and striped markings across the arms. Wrist guards, a torn waist wrap, and shin guards complete the outfit as he leans forward with clenched fists.
Text:
虎王(仮) = “Hu Wang” (provisional)
Note:
Provisional here refers to the name “Hu Wang” not being decided / finalised.
Hu Wang means “Tiger King”.
Unknown Character Named “Shizi Wang“ – B&W Illustration
With a powerful, imposing build, and long rugged hair, this figure presents a stern expression. A short, fur-like vest leaves much of the torso exposed, emphasizing his physique. A rope belt and minimal fur-trimmed garment are paired with wrist and shin guards, as he stands firmly with fists at his sides.
Text:
獅子王(仮) = Shizi Wang (provisional)
Note:
Provisional here refers to the name “Shizi Wang” not being decided / finalised.
Ryo Hazuki (Akira) – Colour Illustration
Lean and athletic, Akira stands upright with an easy, neutral demeanor. A simple T-shirt, straight-cut jeans, and sneakers keep the outfit casual. His short, spiked hair and relaxed stance give him a clean, sporty impression.
Text:
アキラ(少年)= Akira (boy)
Note:
首の長さ、かたのラインは頭のモデルにあわせてかまいません =
The length of the neck and the line of the shoulders can be adjusted to match the head model.
アキラの年令が 15 歳から 17 歳にかわってしまったため体型も少し変化しています。以前のきゃしゃなイメージよりもスポーツマン的なスタイルになりまし[た] =
Since Akira’s age was changed from 15 to 17, his physique has also changed slightly. Compared to his previous slender image, he now has a more athletic build.
T シャツ(ヘインズ)そで多少みじかめになっています =
T-shirt (Hanes). The sleeves have been slightly shortened.
足、以前よりやや太くなりました =
Legs have been made slightly thicker than before.
ズボン(G パン)ストレートタイプ、すそ長くなりました =
Trousers (jeans), straight type. The hems have been made longer.
Li Xiuying – Colour Illustration
A sleeveless Chinese-style dress with a high collar and asymmetrical fastening runs down one side. The skirt falls below the knees with a side slit, worn with simple flat shoes. Her hair is tied back, with loose strands framing a composed, serious face.
Text:
李秀英 = Li Xiuying
Note:
At some point “Li” must have been changed to “Hong”.
Yuan – Colour Illustration
A cropped jacket with a high collar and zip front exposes the midriff, paired with tight patterned trousers and a belt. Tall, glossy boots add to the sleek, fitted silhouette. A slight tilt in posture, along with short hair and accessories, adds a confident, playful edge.
Text:
ユアン = Yuan
Ren (Fei) – Colour Illustration
An open-front jacket fastened with decorative loops leaves the chest exposed, worn with loose trousers tied at the waist. A simple cap and sturdy boots complete the outfit. His upright stance and clenched fists suggest focus and readiness.
Text:
フェイ = Fei
Note:
Fei was the original name for Ren during the Virtua Fighter RPG stages of development.
Unknown Character (Fei’s Subordinate – Snatch Thief) – Colour Illustration
One leg lifted and both fists raised, this young man adopts a low, dynamic stance. A short-sleeved button-up shirt and track-style pants give him a practical look, paired with simple sneakers. Short, spiked hair and a tense expression reinforce the sense of movement.
Text:
フェイの部下(引ったくり犯)= Fei’s subordinate (snatch thief)
Note:
ボートピープル2 =
Boat people 2
緑のシャツ、裏無地、ところどころ しみあるといいと思います。=
Green shirt. Plain lining. It would be good to have some stains here and there.
線 → 太細太 =
Linework: thick–thin–thick.
ジャージの下=
Tracksuit bottoms
ひもをとおしてません、ドロだらけ=
No shoelaces. Covered in mud.
Lan Di (Black Dragon) – Colour Illustration
A long, high-collared robe with wide sleeves drapes over trousers and simple shoes. A large dragon motif runs down the front from chest to hem. With spiked hair and a trailing braid, he stands straight with a stern presence.
Text:
黒龍= Black Dragon
Note:
ラフ みつあみ=
Spiky. Braids.
オーダーシートとしては未提出(先行してあげられていた)=
Not submitted as an order sheet (it had already been submitted in advance).
Dou Niu – Colour Illustration
Large and heavily built, Dou Niu stands with a solid, grounded posture and clenched fists. A sleeveless vest with bold decorative patterns leaves his chest exposed, worn with loose trousers tied at the waist. Wristbands and open-toed sandals add to the rugged appearance.
Text:
斗牛= Dou Niu
Note:
(Measurements have been crossed out)
Unknown Character (Fei’s Subordinate – Grunt) – Colour Illustration
Stocky in build, this man stands with fists clenched and shoulders squared. A sleeveless tank top and loose trousers secured with a belt form a simple outfit, paired with sandals. Slightly messy hair and a sturdy frame give him a rough, utilitarian feel.
Text:
フェイの部下(ザコ)= Fei’s subordinate (grunt)
Note:
ボートピープル3 =
Boat people 3
小ぎたない作業ズボン=
Grubby work trousers
Extra Research:
It would seem that it’s possible that this character appears in both the Chapter 2 Artwork, and also during SEGA Saturn footage. See below:
Chen Guizhang – Colour Illustration
A tailored suit with a double-breasted jacket, dress shirt, and tie gives a formal appearance. His posture is upright, hands clenched, and expression firm. Neatly parted hair and polished shoes reinforce a disciplined image.
Text:
陳貴章= Chen Guizhang
Master Chen – Colour Illustration
Short and heavyset, this man wears a long Chinese-style robe with a high collar and decorative loop fastenings near the shoulder. The garment is tied with a sash, with contrasting cuffs and trousers visible beneath. His still posture and reserved expression suggest quiet authority.
Text:
陳大人= Master Chen
Unknown Character – Colour Illustration
A practical work uniform consisting of a short-sleeved top, loose trousers, and a small cap defines the outfit. Holding a long-handled utensil in one hand and resting the other on her hip, she appears confident and at ease. Socks and slip-on sandals complete the outfit, with a rear view included for reference.
Note:
エプロン・スカート等が無理な場合はこちらをつかって下さい=
If an apron, skirt, etc. aren’t possible, please use this instead.
(胸のロゴはそれらしく見えてくれれば大丈夫だと思います)「~飯店」「~苑」=
The logo on the chest just needs to look the part, it doesn’t have to be exact. “~ Restaurant” / “~ Garden”
くつ下はいてます=
Wearing socks.
Wong – Colour Illustration
Small in stature, Wong wears a layered short-sleeved shirt over a T-shirt, with loose trousers tied at the waist. Simple sneakers complete the casual outfit. His upright stance and spiky hair give him an alert, energetic feel.
Text:
ウォン= Wong
Triplet – Colour Illustration
A matching Chinese-style outfit with a high-collared top and loose trousers is fastened with decorative loop closures. Hair styled in two rounded buns frames her face, paired with simple flat shoes. Hands held together in front, she appears neat and composed.
Text:
三つ子= Triplet
Note:
130 くらい?=
About 130 (cm)?
色白=
Fair-skinned
Unknown Character Named “Rat” – Colour Illustration
Leaning forward in a low, wide stance, this man rests his hands on his thighs. A T-shirt layered under an open short-sleeved shirt is paired with jeans and dark shoes. Upward-styled hair and a sharp, mischievous look give him a bold presence.
Text:
ねずみ= Rat
Note:
基本的にはサングラスをかけています。=
Wears sunglasses, as a rule.
Extra Research:
It would seem that it’s possible that this character also appears in the Chapter 2 Artwork.
See below:
