ShenSun wrote: Its such a tricky situation. On one hand, I do think we are stuck with them due to contract obligations. On the other, I think there are clear reoccurring problems with the company that needs addressing, as mentioned earlier http://www.shenmuedojo.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&p=1126974#p1126974
We all have valid opinions
With regards to the paypal campaign, my view is probably a little extreme as i think the donations should stay open "forever", or at least until we have enough funds to finish the story, or until a publisher / company pick up the series post Shenmue 3.
The majority of us have valid opinions and it's great to talk to people on the same level. That's why I do most of my chatting via private messages now, instead of across the community. It keeps my head level, and stops me flying off the handle when I get too passionate about a Shenmue related topic. I miss posting too, but with this update, I read the comments and just had to put my phone down in disgust at some of the stuff I was reading. I would have banned myself if I gotten involved in some of the comment slanging and AJ bashing retort.
I know AJ need to address some of their actions, and yes they should not go without some accountability. But who's responsibility is that, from an internal standpoint. We can ask questions and they can answer, but there must be someone within the entire Shenmue 3 team who handles these relations. That's where accountability needs to happen. Not slagging off across Shenmue sites, Facebook, Twitter and Kickstarter, whilst feeding the dirt rags at the same time.
I wish David DeVille could have been hired, or even recruited as a conduit to the western fanbase. He is perfectly placed and knowledgeable about those things. But I think it kind of fell on deaf ears. The worst about it is we shouldn't need a conduit because that's what Awesome Japan are supposed to be! Our link to the development team! But it's this team that has been causing the most distress! It is an issue that needs to be tackled, I agree, but I have to say, I have no idea how to go about it. If I meet Cedric next month, I don't really want to bring up any negatives. The guy I feel has already done more than enough just to even say Shenmue 3 exists.
The Paypal, I also hope does indefinitely. At least until the end of 2016. I will happily donate at least another $5000, possibly more depending on how long it's open for. What is there to lose? Nothing. What is there to gain? More stretch goals.