Shenmue 3 is one of those Kickstarter darling stories that we all love to hear about. Fans have wanted a second sequel in the popular Sega franchise, when given the chance to help make it happen, they did. Some basics on Kickstarter – someone with an idea and the capabilities, but not the money to make it happen meet fans that are willing to put money into it to make it happen. Part of the details that must be disclosed is exactly how fans will receive what they backed here. This is where Shenmue 3 has caused a bit of trouble for many backers. They changed the agreement after funding was achieved. A big no-no.

The problem is, when Shenmue 3 was available for backing on Kickstarter Steam was, according to Forbes.com, heavily implied as an option for backers. Backers thought they were getting Shenmue on Steam by funding at one level (there were many options for backers to choose from). It was later revealed they were not getting that. Forbes continued to state that the survey sent out for backers to choose their platform of choice had only two choices – PlayStation 4 and Steam. All was great, Shenmue 3 was getting made and fans would be able to get a copy on the popular digital store they were already familiar with.

Then things changed

According to PC Gamer, Deep Silver, Shenmue 3 publisher, and Epic, who make Unreal Engine 4 which powers Shenmue 3, came to a deal. They apparently didn’t understand this was technically outside the guidelines set in the Kickstarter. There is also the point of concern that this is a one-year exclusive deal for Epic. If you backed the Kickstarter expecting a Steam edition, then you are now being told you will have to wait a year after release.

Where do you stand?

This is obviously not boding well with fans. What is your take? Are you made about this switch to Epic’s store, and the exclusivity thereof? Or were you a PlayStation 4 backer from day one?

This article was originally published on Retro Gaming Magazine, a gaming website I own.

Carl Williams

It is time gaming journalism takes its rightful place as proper sources and not fanboys giving free advertising. If you wish to support writers like Carl please use the links below. https://www.paypal.me/WCW https://www.patreon.com/CarlWilliams