I backed the Kickstarter on day 1 (getting the PC physical version because at the time PS4 physical version was not planned and I didn't own a PS4 then either).
And to be honest, I'm pretty bitter about how it's been handled.
I was first turned off by Suzuki making videos begging fans to donate to the Kickstarter because it wouldn't be possible without grassroots support. Then days after the Kickstarter is finished reveal Sony has been in for a couple million. At that point I figured I'd already backed it and I'll just wait and see how the final product comes out before I reserve judgment. So I kinda stopped paying attention to the game's progress
But this stuff with changing from Steam to Epic Games store and shipping a physical copy that is literally just a code in a box and a disc with the Epic Games installer on it and no game content has gotten me pissed off.
They have offered compromises but none are perfect scenarios for me:
1. Switch to PS4 version. I like this option because it would be the only physical version that makes sense to own, but at the same time I'd much, much rather play on PC and I already have Shenmue 1+2 for PC and not for PS4
2. Keep the PC version even though the physical copy is literally garbage, pirate the game so I can run it with Epic Games store stripped out, and they promise to give away a free Steam key for Shenmue III in a year when exclusivity is run out
3. Take the refund option, Epic has agreed to eat the costs of refunding everyone who wants a Kickstarter refund
Kinda leaning towards taking the refund and pirating it on day 1 and then just buying the Steam version when it comes out a year later
And to be honest, I'm pretty bitter about how it's been handled.
I was first turned off by Suzuki making videos begging fans to donate to the Kickstarter because it wouldn't be possible without grassroots support. Then days after the Kickstarter is finished reveal Sony has been in for a couple million. At that point I figured I'd already backed it and I'll just wait and see how the final product comes out before I reserve judgment. So I kinda stopped paying attention to the game's progress
But this stuff with changing from Steam to Epic Games store and shipping a physical copy that is literally just a code in a box and a disc with the Epic Games installer on it and no game content has gotten me pissed off.
They have offered compromises but none are perfect scenarios for me:
1. Switch to PS4 version. I like this option because it would be the only physical version that makes sense to own, but at the same time I'd much, much rather play on PC and I already have Shenmue 1+2 for PC and not for PS4
2. Keep the PC version even though the physical copy is literally garbage, pirate the game so I can run it with Epic Games store stripped out, and they promise to give away a free Steam key for Shenmue III in a year when exclusivity is run out
3. Take the refund option, Epic has agreed to eat the costs of refunding everyone who wants a Kickstarter refund
Kinda leaning towards taking the refund and pirating it on day 1 and then just buying the Steam version when it comes out a year later