Here's an update on how Shenmue 3 development is coming along

An update on Shenmue 3's development has been posted on the game's Kickstarter page by Ys Net.

The studio also posted various screenshots to provide an idea of how map testing is coming along.

According to the developer, map testing helps the team discern by experimentation whether an area is too large or two small by "looking at the layout of a certain space."

"For example, an outside area may feel too open," reads the update. "That space may be reduced by 20%, and the number of people there increased from 10 to 16, to affect the proper consistency and density of the area.”

All elements in the screenshots are still in testing with objects "being used as place holders, like the men in black suits." Ys Net notes Ryo is an older model in the images, and the two battle scenes were taken at "an angle to avoid spoilers as much as possible."

Shenmue 3 was revealed as a Kickstarter project during Sony’s E3 press conference and funding closed with over $6.3 million.

The game is slated for release in 2017 for PS4 and PC.