Sega has announced that Shenmue creator Yu Suzuki, also responsible for mainstay arcade hits Virtua Fighter and OutRun, has stepped down from his position as R&D creative officer at the company’s AM Plus division.

Suzuki, who has spent his entire career at Sega – a long 26 years, is not leaving the company entirely. According to a Sega of America rep, he will still stand as manager of the aforementioned R&D department.

Nonetheless, it looks as if Yu Suzuki days of churning out hits are numbered, as he takes on a corporate role at Sega – dealing with business affairs rather than being directly involved on the creative side. That said, those still wishing for a Shenmue III are advised to put those wants to rest, as the prospect of a third installment is looking very unlikely.

Shenmue creator steps down at Sega [GameSpot]

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