Shenmue is an open world action-adventure video game, developed by Sega AM2, produced and directed by Yu Suzuki, and published by Sega for the Dreamcast in 1999. Suzuki coined a genre title for its nonlinear gameplay, "FREE", for the game, based on the interactivity and freedom he wanted to give to the player. Suzuki intended to achieve this by simulating aspects of real life through the game, such as the day and night system, real-time variable weather effects, fully voiced non-player characters with their own daily schedules, quick time events, and various other interactive elements such as vending machines, arcades, and convenience stores.
Shenmue borrows gameplay elements from several different genres, but largely consists of open world 3D adventure segments with occasional real-time brawler battles interspersed throughout as well as role-playing game elements. It was the most expensive video game at the time; Yu Suzuki initially stated the production budget was $70 million but later stated it cost $47 million. The game was followed by a 2001 sequel, Shenmue II, with at least one more planned as a Dreamcast series. |