Today we celebrate Shenmue turning 25 in the NTSC USA region. With the PAL anniversary soon to follow (on December 1st), we dive in to celebrate what this wonderful franchise has given us.
Twenty-five years ago, Yu Suzuki, SEGA, and AM2 changed the face of what video games could be. They took the impossible and made it possible. Together, they delivered an awe-inspiring world, soundtrack, story, and characters that stand the test of time even today. What Shenmue offered was a glimpse into the future — where games could go, and where they did (mostly) end up going: the first proper AAA title.
While the series has had its fair share of criticism (some deserved, though mostly not) over the years, it still remains iconic and inspirational — across industry professionals, gamers, and this community. Twenty-five years later, that influence was recognised when Shenmue topped the BAFTA ‘Most Influential Video Games of all Time’ public poll.
While we still push for a continuation of our beloved franchise, we can look back with pride on what Shenmue has accomplished during its 25 years since release. The time to support the future of this series has never been more critical than now. With Shenmue III Enhanced on the horizon, its success could help secure the next 25 years of Shenmue’s future.
But for now…. happy 25th birthday, Shenmue. The game that changed the world.
