YS Net, the acclaimed developer behind Shenmue 3, has issued an official response following the circulation of a fake "Shenmue 4" trailer on YouTube and other online platforms.
The video, which bore the company’s logo and claimed to be an announcement reveal, spread rapidly through several gaming news outlets, including coverage by Push Square and popular Sega- and Shenmue-focused YouTube channels.
The incident ignited widespread speculation in the gaming community about the possibility of a new sequel in the beloved Shenmue series. Shenmue, first launched on the Sega Dreamcast in 1999 and led by legendary game designer Yu Suzuki, quickly became a cult classic.
The series chronicles the journey of Ryo Hazuki as he seeks to avenge his father’s death.
While the Dreamcast brought Shenmue to life, the franchise has since seen two sequels: Shenmue II arrived in 2001, and a crowdfunded Shenmue III debuted in 2019.
The ongoing enthusiasm surrounding the franchise means that any hint of a new title, particularly Shenmue 4, draws significant attention from fans globally, especially those who remember its roots on platforms like the Dreamcast and—more recently—the Nintendo Switch eShop for classic titles. In a decisive statement posted to social media in both Japanese and English, YS Net clarified its stance, stating: "A video circulating online has used our company logo without permission, falsely representing itself as an official 'Shenmue 4' announcement.
This content is not affiliated in any way with YS Net.
Currently, no trailers, footage, or promotional materials relating to 'Shenmue 4' have been released by our company." YS Net went on to describe the situation as a "serious issue," highlighting concerns over trademark infringement and unfair competition.
The developer added, "We are working with appropriate parties and preparing to take suitable measures, which may include legal action against the creator of the unauthorized video." Fans and industry insiders are reminded that official information regarding the Shenmue series will only come through validated YS Net channels, whether via their website, verified social accounts, or major industry events like Nintendo Direct or major eShop announcements.
The company further apologized for any confusion this event may have caused, reiterating their commitment to clear and accurate communication about current and future projects. With no official Shenmue 4 currently in development, this episode serves as a critical lesson on the dangers of misinformation and unauthorized content in the gaming industry.
As the popularity of classic franchises and revival attempts continues to grow, so does the need for vigilance—both for fans and developers—to preserve the integrity of iconic brands like Shenmue.
The video, which bore the company’s logo and claimed to be an announcement reveal, spread rapidly through several gaming news outlets, including coverage by Push Square and popular Sega- and Shenmue-focused YouTube channels.
The incident ignited widespread speculation in the gaming community about the possibility of a new sequel in the beloved Shenmue series. Shenmue, first launched on the Sega Dreamcast in 1999 and led by legendary game designer Yu Suzuki, quickly became a cult classic.
The series chronicles the journey of Ryo Hazuki as he seeks to avenge his father’s death.
While the Dreamcast brought Shenmue to life, the franchise has since seen two sequels: Shenmue II arrived in 2001, and a crowdfunded Shenmue III debuted in 2019.
The ongoing enthusiasm surrounding the franchise means that any hint of a new title, particularly Shenmue 4, draws significant attention from fans globally, especially those who remember its roots on platforms like the Dreamcast and—more recently—the Nintendo Switch eShop for classic titles. In a decisive statement posted to social media in both Japanese and English, YS Net clarified its stance, stating: "A video circulating online has used our company logo without permission, falsely representing itself as an official 'Shenmue 4' announcement.
This content is not affiliated in any way with YS Net.
Currently, no trailers, footage, or promotional materials relating to 'Shenmue 4' have been released by our company." YS Net went on to describe the situation as a "serious issue," highlighting concerns over trademark infringement and unfair competition.
The developer added, "We are working with appropriate parties and preparing to take suitable measures, which may include legal action against the creator of the unauthorized video." Fans and industry insiders are reminded that official information regarding the Shenmue series will only come through validated YS Net channels, whether via their website, verified social accounts, or major industry events like Nintendo Direct or major eShop announcements.
The company further apologized for any confusion this event may have caused, reiterating their commitment to clear and accurate communication about current and future projects. With no official Shenmue 4 currently in development, this episode serves as a critical lesson on the dangers of misinformation and unauthorized content in the gaming industry.
As the popularity of classic franchises and revival attempts continues to grow, so does the need for vigilance—both for fans and developers—to preserve the integrity of iconic brands like Shenmue.
