School Boy Returns... To Racing?!

We thought we'd never see him again, but now he's back... sort of.
First reported in Sega America's official blog, Ryo Hazuki, star of the epic Shenmue series, will be returning to the gaming realm by appearing as a playable character in the upcoming Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing game. Last seen in 2001's Shenmue II for the Dreamcast and Xbox, Ryo hasn't appeared in any other game since, and many fans were left hanging since Shenmue III never came to light (we're still hopeful that will happen though). As the latest addition to the SEGA All-Star line-up, Ryo comes bursting into the tracks with his trusty "borrowed motorcycle", which he used to rescue his love interest Nozomi in the first game.

As a special bonus attack, he can swap vehicles with his forklift from Yokosuka Harbor! Just like old times... but how does he fare against his other peers from the SEGA-verse? Check out the clip below provided by the folks behind the game:

Ryo Hazuki crashes into Sonic & SEGA All-Star Racing!
Hell yeah, it's great to see Ryo back in action somewhat, but Yu Suzuki and Sega... what's taking so long?! Make us a Shenmue III already and bring back the epicness!