Adult Swim, Crunchyroll adapt Shenmue

Shenmue was first released in 1999

US cablenet Adult Swim and anime streamer Crunchyroll are working together on an original series based on the Sega video game franchise Shenmue.

The latest collaboration between the two WarnerMedia-owned businesses will stream worldwide outside of Japan and mainland China on Crunchyroll and will air on Adult Swim’s Toonami in the US.

The 13-episode anime series follows the journey of Ryo Hazuki, who dedicates his life to becoming the ultimate martial artist and finding the man responsible for his father’s murder.

“The world of Shenmue is fascinating and unique, and we are so excited to partner with Yu Suzuki to bring his epic creation to anime – and make a kick-ass martial arts epic,” said Jason DeMarco, senior VP and creative director on-air for Adult Swim.

Shenmue is being directed by Sakurai Chikara, with animation production by Telecom Animation Film and production management provided by Sola Entertainment. Video game creator Suzuki is also on board as an executive producer.

Previous Crunchyroll and Adult Swim productions have included the recently announced Fena: Pirate Princess and Blade Runner: Black Lotus.