Every now and again rumors surface of a completed project of the Shenmue series being in the works, creating waves of anticipation in the sea of Shenmue fans who’s been patiently waiting for six years for SEGA’s official word.  We’ve seen fake screenshots and trailers, we’ve fell for slated release dates, and have heard rumors of a completed game sitting on SEGA’s shelves collecting dust for one reason or another.  Yet we remain hopeful, knowing that the man who gave birth to the amazing creation that is Shenmue, Yu Suzuki, has an active role there at the company.

Mr. Suzuki was inducted into the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame in 2003.

But as the years go by and Yu Suzuki’s role become less and less, our hope of experiencing the final chapters of  Shenmue diminish as well.  Recently, according to SEGA Sammy, Yu Suzuki has “retired” from the role of R&D (Research and Development) Creative Officer, and as of April 15, 2009 will be a member of the Amusement R&D Division.  Notice in SEGA Sammy’s records, Yu Suzuki is on the list as “retired”, but is noted to have made a “personal change” on April 1st, to stay as a member of the company.  What does this mean?  Was it a company mistake, or did Suzuki change his mind last minute about retirement?

Sega Race TV was the last game Suzuki has designed for SEGA AM. It released in Japanese arcades in 2008.

Whatever it means, news of retiring- in this case almost retiring- is not good news at all for Shenmue fans around the world.  Maybe he changed his mind because he wanted to go out with a BANG and finish one of his greatest works.  Why not go out on a good note?  Or maybe I’m just harboring more blind hope for something that will never come; after all the hope of finally avenging Ryu Hazuki and defeating Lan Di is the only thing that keeps us Shenmue fans warm at night.