Shenmue III Enhanced Coming to PS5, Xbox, PC and Nintendo — 4K Textures, Smoother Performance & Toggleable Classic Mode
Shenmue III is getting an enhanced re-release, announced by creator Yu Suzuki and Inin Games at Gamescom 2025. The update, called Shenmue III Enhanced, is headed to PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X and Nintendo consoles, and it aims to modernize visuals and gameplay while letting players keep the original experience if they prefer.
- Platforms and upgrade path for owners
- Visual and performance improvements
- Gameplay and quality-of-life changes
- No release date yet; Nintendo version unspecified
What’s changing
The enhanced edition includes a range of concrete upgrades. Expect a 4K texture uplift, sharper textures, richer details, and faster load times. Additionally, the re-release promises smoother performance through high-quality upscaling and performance boosts. For those who like more bustling environments, NPC density will be increased.
Performance and visuals
Specifically, the update lists:
- 4K texture uplift and generally sharper textures
- Faster load times and overall smoother gameplay
- High-quality upscaling to improve image clarity
- Increased NPC density to populate environments more
Gameplay and quality-of-life
Meanwhile, the Enhanced edition adds several gameplay changes and conveniences. These include an optional classic camera mode to match earlier Shenmue entries, expanded QTE interactions, and the ability to skip conversations and cutscenes. Also, there are optional adjustments to the stamina system, health restoration before fights, and a streamlined menu and UI. Money barriers have been reduced to smooth progression. Importantly, most of these changes can be toggled off so purists can preserve the original experience.
Platforms and availability
The re-release is confirmed for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S and X, and Nintendo consoles. On PC, the game will be available on Steam and the Epic Games Store. However, the announcement does not specify whether the Nintendo listing refers to the Switch, the Switch 2, or both. Also, there is no release date or window provided yet. Those who already own the original Shenmue III will have an upgrade path to the Enhanced edition.
Other notes
Finally, the announcement did not include any footage or screenshots showing the improvements, so players will have to wait for hands-on previews or a release to judge the changes. All details above are taken from the Gamescom 2025 announcement by Yu Suzuki and Inin Games.
