VG Merch: Promo VHS
Product: What’s Shenmue
Manufacturer: Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
Release: 1999
Unsure of what a Shenmue is? This 1999 promotional VHS from Sega of Japan will have you in the know!
On 11/08/2000 Shenmue Chapter 1: Yokosuka released in North America (12/29/1999 in Japan), ushering in an incredible new level of interactive entertainment, and laid the groundwork not only for an incredible sequel at the time, but Yu Suzuki’s magnum opus also paved the way for other open world sandbox games that have now become ubiquitous with modern gaming. Suzuki and team’s FREE gameplay style (Free Reactive Eyes Entertainment) offered unprecedented interaction with the environment and objects around you.
With mind-blowing graphics, an enthralling story, next-level music and sound, and unique gameplay, Shenmue offered a beautifully paced, one-of-a-kind experience.
So what exactly is Shenmue? Shenmue is pioneering gaming at its absolute finest, and this roughly 30 minute promo VHS tape helped promote this exciting new endeavor of gaming interactivity and freedom.
What was your first experience with Shenmue, and more importantly, how many toy capsules have you collected on your journey to help Ryo Hazuki avenge his father?