Guide a young hero through the dangerous streets of a strange city as he quests to avenge his father's murder in Shenmue II, the continued adventure of Ryo Hazuki. This next installment picks up the story where the first game abruptly left it, following Ryo to Hong Kong as he fights for knowledge and survival through dark alleys, busy markets, the untamed wilderness, and even a Taoist temple. Ryo's search for the elusive Lan Di continues, ever driving him forward in search of a peace that only truth can bestow.

Several gameplay issues that became minor frustrations to some who played the first chapter of Shenmue have been addressed in this second release. Menus have been expanded and refined for easier accessibility. Maps can be acquired and marked to help Ryo keep his bearings and easily see which locations he has already visited. More dialog options have been added, so the hero is less likely to ask the same question over and over each time he speaks with someone new. Also, these next chapters in Ryo's adventure are more action-oriented than the first, with more to do and less time spent talking about it.

Most important to fans, however, is that Yu Suzuki and his team have crafted Shenmue II with the same respect, thoughtfulness, and style as was invested in the first title. The game world bustles around the hero, as day turns to night and the weather changes. Ryo is able to go where he wishes and interact with his dynamic environment on many different levels. QTEs again challenge the hero's alertness, while curiosity and attention to detail are duly rewarded. As in the first adventure, Shenmue II presents a layered, living world in which gamers are encouraged to completely immerse themselves and a continuing storyline propelled by natural character motivations that players may find themselves taking on as their own. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide