Shenmue 3 trial version to launch imminently

A trial version of Shenmue III will soon be made available to backers of the crowdfunded game, according to its developer.

In an update on the game’s Kickstarter page, developer Ys Net said project backers will start receiving emails this weekend instructing them how to access the replayable demo, which is available exclusively via the Epic Games store.

“This special version lets you experience one day in Bailu Village near the beginning of the game,” it says. “The trial version features story line elements, battling, minigames and more.”

It also notes: “Playing with a controller is highly recommended. Keyboard controls are supported for Shenmue III, however, keyboard functionality is still being upgraded and recent upgrades have not been applied to the trial version.”

YS Net recently confirmed that PC backers unhappy with the decision to release that version of the game exclusively through the Epic Games store are able to take up the offer of a refund until 11:59pm JST on October 3.

In an interview published in August, Ys Net’s Yu Suzuki told VGC he hopes to one day complete the Shenmue saga, which by the end of the third game will be less than halfway through its epic revenge story.

In the same interview, the veteran Sega designer suggested he could be in discussions to return to his classic series Virtua Fighter and Out Run.