The release date for Shenmue 3's first DLC has been announced, and it will feature new playable protagonists. There are currently three planned DLC add-ons for Shenmue 3, and this first one will be entitled "Battle Rally".
After being successfully funded on Kickstarter to the tune of $6 million, Epic Games Store exclusivity controversy, developer Ys Net is planning to Shenmue 3 well into the future. The biggest part of that will come in the form of DLC add-ons, which will expand the game's story with other character's perspectives and offer new activities throughout the world. Apparently, the first of these expansions is coming sooner than one might expect.
In a press release today, publisher Deep Silver revealed the release date and details for Shenmue 3's Battle Rally DLC. The add-on will "offer fresh gaming activities with a race unlike any other as contestants engage in head-to-head battles while racing their way through the course." It's not entirely clear what this means, but Battle Rally will take place in the Bailu Village area and involve two newly-playable protagonists. For the first time, players will be able to take control of Wuying Ren (Ryo's surly, treasure-hunting foil) or Wei Zhen, one of the strongest martial artists in the village. The pack will come to the PlayStation Store and Epic Games Store on January 21, and will be included as part of Shenmue 3's DLC .
Judging by the promotional screenshot for this add-on, Battle Rally will be some sort of foot race that involves fighting in one way or another. According to the press release, placing first in these races will "win some truly awesome items." Other unique items can be unlocked by locating collectible "Bailu-chan" mascots across the village. Finding as many as possible will also give players an advantage against opponents during the race.
Shenmue 3 is a divisive game for a number of reasons, but it's certainly a worthy successor to the series' legacy. The game is staunchly dedicated to its fans and to its creator's vision, and those fans will no doubt appreciate the opportunity to explore more of Shenmue 3's world as it grows with DLC. Deep Silver and Ys Net could stand to be a little clearer on what the DLC actually entails, but it will still be interesting to find out how it mixes martial arts and foot racing.
Shenmue 3 is available now on PC and PlayStation 4.
