Shenmue III Is Finally Confirmed For ‘Nintendo Platforms’

The long-rumoured has at last materialised — ININ Games has confirmed Shenmue III Enhanced will hit Nintendo systems. No launch day or timeframe was offered; all eyes now turn to Gamescom 2025, which opens its doors tomorrow (19th August) for the formal reveal.

Notice the wording: only “Nintendo,” no mention of Switch or Switch 2. Whether the release lands on one, the other, or both remains open. If pushed to estimate, we’d wager this is aimed squarely at Switch 2 — but that’s pure conjecture.

As the name implies, Shenmue III Enhanced is a beefed-up edition of the long-awaited sequel that Yu Suzuki delivered in 2019. Expect spruced-up visuals, refined controls, and deeper NPC interactions.

Below is every announced enhancement:

– Revamped Visuals & Performance – Crisper textures, denser detail, shorter load screens and silkier frame rates.
– 4K Texture Overhaul – Higher-resolution assets for scenes and cast members.
– DLSS/FSR Support – Resolution boosters to keep performance high on compatible hardware.
– Denser Crowds – The canal-laced town of Niaowu now bustles with additional passers-by.
– Retro Camera Option – A viewpoint harking back to Shenmue I & II sits beside the modern angle.
– Fine-Tuned Mechanics – Adjustable stamina, pre-fight health regeneration, and lower economic barriers for a smoother journey.
– Better Conversations – Movie skips, extended quick-time windows, and other accessibility additions.
– Streamlined Menus – Quicker navigation, plus handy shop prompts for collectibles.
– Toggle Everything – Every major tweak can be switched off to maintain an untouched, classic feel.

First pitched to the public during E3 2015 as a crowdfunding venture, Shenmue III arrived four years later to divided opinions; some cherished its devotion to Dreamcast-era design, while others chafed at the minimal updates and narrative choices. Our sibling site Push Square voiced its appreciation, handing the original release a 7/10.

ININ Games has been teasing this reveal for a while, so it’s a relief to have it locked in. All that’s left is to see it running at Gamescom.

Have you already adventured through Shenmue III? Planning to revisit on Switch, whether first or second generation? Share your thoughts down below.