Shenmue developers confirm that a recent Shenmue 4 trailer video circulating social media is fake. Read on to learn more about their statement and what actions they may take here.
Shenmue 4 Unofficial Trailer Circulating in Social Media
Developers Debunk Fake Teaser
Shenmue developers, YS NET, issued an official announcement confirming that the Shenmue 4 trailer recently circulating on social media is fake. The team swiftly released the statement on December 8, 2025 through their official Twitter (X) account, aiming to prevent fans from being misled or misinformed.
"Furthermore, at this time, YS NET has not released any trailers, footage, or other promotional materials related to Shenmue 4," the developers stated, directly addressing the false claims surrounding a fourth main entry in the franchise.
Despite the clarification that there is no official content or announcement, and that the circulating video is not affiliated with the team, fans have nonetheless begun speculating and reading between the lines regarding the team’s statement.
Players have interpreted the team’s post as a possible hint that Shenmue 4 could be in development or that the project quietly exists, reigniting hopes for a continuation of martial artist Ryo Hazuki’s journey.
Initially released in 1999, Shenmue was created by Yu Suzuki and became famous for its storytelling, open-world design, and life-simulation elements, following main protagonist Ryo Hazuki as he travels across East Asia. The next installment in the series is highly anticipated by its devoted fan base, especially since the last main title, Shenmue 3, was released in 2019. With only the Shenmue 3 Enhanced Edition officially on the way, players still speculate the next chapter.
Shenmue 3 has left its story unresolved and clearly open for continuation, fueling fan anticipation for the following installment to the series. That excitement intensified when the alleged Shenmue 4 trailer began circulating online, and many players are continuously hoping that the next game might still be real.
May Require Legal Action
After the developers issued their clarifications, part of the community began speculating that the supposed "leaked video" circulating across various social media platforms was likely AI-generated, given its unauthorized use of both the developer’s and SEGA’s logos. With the possibility of trademark infringement, the situation has raised concerns that the team may need to take matters to court.
YS NET states that they are "currently working with relevant parties and preparing appropriate measures, including potential legal action." The team emphasizes that the issue is serious, as being falsely associated with the video has created confusion and spread misinformation among players.
They also issued an apology to fans for the misleading news surrounding the franchise, acknowledging the false hopes it had caused for the long-standing martial arts series. Moving forward, they hope to address the situation with the continued support of the community.
Source:
YS Net Inc Official Statement on Shenmue 4 Fake Trailer Video
