- Joined
- Aug 19, 2018
Another idea I’d love to see revisited is the character perspective system. Initially I hated the idea, but thinking about it, I think it would be kinda cool to two or three little sections where players could choose between Ryo (brute force), Ren (stealth), and Shenhua (persuasion). It could be a great way to explore the latter’s powers while also providing a reason for players to replay the game.
The character perspective system being axed was one element I was not disappointed being canceled. I’ve always felt Shenmue is Ryo’s journey and playing as anyone else sort of muddies the water.
However I think that will be one of the biggest challenges with a Shenmue 4, how the game juggles your two companions.
I am sure there will be plot elements that will divide or split them up but I hope it is done in a smart and intelligent way. With Shenmue 3 there was this loose idea that Shenhua had duties at home and just in case her father came home to remain there. There was a somewhat plausible idea why she wouldn’t accompany Ryo all the time. When we got to Niaowu, it felt even less plausible and seeing her character sometimes idle around the environment drove home that point (I’m sure the character perspective system would have come more into play here). I really hope the scenario and events draw those characters closer (think of Kowloon section tied to Ren). Of course if the party idea is to persist into extended gameplay I hope Suzuki looks at modern day games like Naughty Dog and see how they blend story and gameplay with side companions to enrich the experience.