Upcoming 13-episode anime series based on the popular SEGA game franchise will be directed by Sakurai Chikara.
At Virtual Crunchyroll Expo, the first-ever digital edition of the yearly flagship anime convention, Crunchyroll announced that it will partner again with Adult Swim on the production of Shenmue, an original anime series based on the popular SEGA game franchise. This joint production will stream worldwide outside of Japan and mainland China on Crunchyroll and air on Adult Swim’s Toonami in the domestic United States.
“The first Shenmue video game was released more than twenty years ago and we’re so excited to be working again with Adult Swim to bring this franchise to life through anime,” commented Crunchyroll head of development, Sarah Victor. “We’re eager to show our fans more of this action-packed adventure series as we move through production.”
The 13-episode Shenmue series follows the journey of Ryo Hazuki, who after witnessing his father’s murder at the family dojo, dedicates his life to finding the man responsible. His mission that takes him from the streets of Yokosuka, Japan to the sprawling metropolis of Hong Kong, and beyond. Soon he will learn that larger, mystical forces are at play as he trains to become the ultimate martial artist in his quest for revenge.
“The world of Shenmue is fascinating and unique, and we are so excited to partner with Yu Suzuki to bring his epic creation to anime and make a kick-ass martial arts epic!” added Adult Swim SVP/creative director, Jason DeMarco.
A Crunchyroll and Adult Swim Production, Shenmue is being directed by Sakurai Chikara (Season 2 of One Punch Man, Naruto) with animation production by Telecom Animation Film, and production management provided by Sola Entertainment. Video game creator Yu Suzuki is also onboard as an executive producer. Additional Crunchyroll and Adult Swim Productions include the recently announced Fena: Pirate Princess and BLADE RUNNER - BLACK LOTUS.
To re-watch the announcement and stream the Crunchyroll Industry Panel in the V-CRX On-Demand section, register for a free Virtual Crunchyroll Expo badge here.
Source: Crunchyroll
