that is a good point, Shenmue fans may not be as numerous as they (or we) think but I could totally see people plunking down thousands towards it. I'd probably give $500-$1k, depending on the rewards.
Even so, I doubt a handful of crazies could get the same as a deluge of small donations.
I think it would really come down to attracting new people more than anything. The fact that Shenmue would be a sequel might turn off potential supporters, whereas TJ&E is relatively standalone right?
Also TJ&E has that off the wall wacky look that appeals to the indy market and supporters, Shenmue is a harder sell.
"So it's this super slow paced, story driven game..."