New Shenmue II gameplay details

[02.09.01] » Less dead-time, easier navigation, and expanded conversations await in Shenmue's second installment.

   Yu Suzuki and his AM2 team seem determined to address every complaint gamers had about the first installment of his multi-game epic Shenmue. Videogames.com is reporting a number of new additions to the gameplay, each of which seem targeted at flaw of the first chapter.

   First, and perhaps most welcome, Shenmue II will add the ability to fast-forward time to a specific point in the future. The enormous amount of dead time in the first game was one of its greatest flaws, and the ability to skip ahead to specific events should help the game toward Suzuki's stated goal of a much quicker pace.

   The aimless wandering of the first game will also be a thing of the past. Unlike the first chapter, maps of each new area will be available for purchase upon first entering. A smaller version of the area map will appear in the corner of the screen for easy navigation though the game's sprawling environments.

   Conversations will also no longer be confined to a single subject. Ryo will be able to choose from up to four topics or questions when talking to people on his travels, which should alleviate some of the repetition seen in the first game. For example, he will be able to inquire about available jobs in the area. Earning money will have an increased importance in the sequel, as Ryo finds himself alone in China without his housekeeper to provide a daily allowance.

  With all these fixes, the outlook for Shenmue II is getting better and better. Those interested in where the next game will take Ryo can read the GIA's recent Shenmue II preview, and expect more details to emerge as the game's fall release in Japan grow near.