Gamer's Republic, the unofficial source for Shen Mue fanatacism, has unveiled some information regarding an interesting wrinkle in Shen Mue's gameplay. A complex system of weather patterns that is truly amazing. The atention to detail being put into this game is more than enough to earn it accolades. I'm a bit weary this evening so you'll forgive me if I just cut and paste the details:

MAGIC WEATHER: Working in conjunction with the game's flow of time is Shenmue's real time weather system. Sega have researched the weather for all game locations over the several years that the game encompasses from 1986. On a certain day at a certain time in a certain place they know if the weather will be sunny, rainy, cloudy, foggy or snowy.

The appearance of weather changes naturally with clouds rolling in before it rains and the sound effects are great as well adding to the atmosphere greatly. But there's more to Shenmue than simply real-time weather effects because the weather does directly affect the game environment.

For example, as the snow falls it begins to settle so the roads turn white and the accumulating snow becomes thicker. When the rain falls in Spring the delicate cherry blossom on the trees is knocked off. During a clear sunny day the view from a high rise building will stretch far into the distance.

These changes in weather could also effect the game itself. On a stormy night with high winds and pouring rain you probably won't find anyone prepared to go out in a boat. However, when the snow is falling you may be able to easily track someone by following his or her footprints.

by TOTORORO