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jeremycreek
Reviews
A Gamer's Journey: The Definitive History of Shenmue (2023)
Clearly made BY fans FOR fans.
When I was 12 years old, I received an issue of Expert Gamer magazine, and within that magazine was a (spoiler free) walkthrough for this game I've never heard of, called Shenmue. I remember reading through the walkthrough from start to finish and being astounded at just how much you are able to do. That year, the only things in my Christmas list, was a Sega Dreamcast, and Shenmue.
I am now an almost 35 year old man, Shenmue has been in my life for much longer than it was not. After all these years, I still regard it as my favorite video game franchise.
When I discovered there was going to be a documentary made about it, I was all for it, but my expectations were very high. If it was going to be made, it has to be made right.
I just finished watching this documentary, and all I can say is: perfection. This was clearly made with the love and care that only the massive Shenmue community can understand.
The included Making of Shenmue: The Gang Edition was just as great. As The Gang's biggest fan (Mike can attest to that), it was amazing to see them included, as they were an integral part of the Shenmue community as well.
In conclusion, this blasted through all expectations, and is one of the best documentaries I had seen in years.
Shenmue (2022)
New and nostalgic
As a fan of the Shenmue franchise for over twenty years, I set the bar high for Shenmue: The Animation. After watching the first episode (twice) I am blown away at the quality that was delivered. It felt both fresh and familiar. It has exceeded my expectations, and I eagerly await the next episode to drop.