Shenmue I & II

The main pros of the game

• Innovative Gameplay and Storytelling: Shenmue is praised for its groundbreaking approach to interactive storytelling, combining elements of adventure, RPG, and life simulation. Players appreciate the depth of its narrative and the emotional connection to the protagonist, Ryo Hazuki.
• Immersive Open World: The game features a richly detailed and realistic world, with NPCs that have their own routines and schedules. This attention to detail creates a living environment that players find engaging.
• Unique Mechanics: The introduction of Quick Time Events (QTEs) is highlighted as a significant innovation in gaming. The gameplay encourages exploration and interaction with the environment, making for a memorable experience.
• Atmosphere and Soundtrack: The game's atmosphere, enhanced by its music and sound design, is frequently mentioned as a strong point, contributing to the overall immersion and emotional weight of the story.
• Nostalgia Factor: For many players, particularly those who experienced the original releases, the game evokes a sense of nostalgia and fond memories of gaming history.

The main cons of the game

• Clunky Controls and Mechanics: Many reviews note that the controls feel outdated and clunky, particularly in combat and navigation, which can detract from the overall experience.
• Slow Pacing: The deliberate pacing of the game can lead to moments of frustration, especially when players have to wait for specific times to progress the story or complete tasks. This slow pace may not appeal to modern audiences accustomed to faster-paced gameplay.
• Repetitive Tasks: Some players find certain gameplay elements, such as the crate-moving minigame and QTEs, tedious and frustrating. The need to repeat actions or wait for events can lead to a sense of boredom.
• Voice Acting: The quality of voice acting, especially in the English dub, has received criticism for being awkward and detracting from the overall immersion.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Quality of Life Improvements: Players expressed a desire for modern conveniences, such as faster time progression or more engaging side activities to fill downtime, to enhance the gaming experience.
• Localization: There is a notable absence of Spanish subtitles, which some players feel limits accessibility for non-English speakers.
• Additional Content: Some users wished for extra features, such as behind-the-scenes content, remastered graphics, or additional gameplay options that could enhance the experience.
• Resolution of Story Arcs: Players noted that the first game feels like a prologue without a satisfying conclusion, leaving them wanting more resolution in the narrative, especially since the saga is intended to span multiple games.

Summary

• Overall, *Shenmue I & II* is celebrated for its pioneering contributions to gaming and its immersive storytelling, but it also faces criticism for its outdated mechanics and pacing, which may challenge new players.

Summary generated on: November 18, 2025