Yakuza Kiwami 3 is the End of an Era for the Franchise

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With the release of Yakuza Kiwami 3, the series is ending its run of ‘Kiwami’ remakes, marking a turning point after 21 years. Yakuza, known for its action-packed gameplay and compelling stories about the Japanese underworld, has become both popular and critically acclaimed. Originally created by Toshihiro Nagoshi for Sega, the franchise now includes nine main games, numerous spin-offs featuring different characters and locations, and several updated versions. The newest addition, Yakuza Kiwami 3, will be fully revealed on February 11, nearly a year after the release of the spin-off title Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.

In 2024, Sega revealed that the Yakuza series had sold over 27 million copies worldwide since its launch in 2005. The games have captivated players with their blend of compelling, emotional stories and lighthearted, over-the-top moments. This unique style is further enhanced by a cast of unforgettable characters. Because the series is so popular, the characters’ stories have expanded beyond video games into books, radio dramas, and even a TV show. The Kiwami series, which remakes Yakuza and Yakuza 2, exists to let fans revisit these beloved characters with updated graphics and new storylines.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 Ends an Era in the Series

Shortly before the release of Yakuza Kiwami 3, the head of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio shared some important news with fans. Masayoshi Yokoyama announced that Yakuza 4 and Yakuza 5 won’t be getting the “Kiwami” remake treatment, with Yakuza Kiwami 3 being the last in that style. He hinted that the significant story changes introduced in Kiwami 3 would likely lead to a new storyline within the Yakuza universe. Yokoyama believes players will understand this decision after experiencing Yakuza Kiwami 3, as it will give future events a new perspective.

Yokoyama explained that the story changes in the upcoming remake will make the plots of Yakuza 4 and Yakuza 5 no longer fit with the overall narrative. This suggests Yakuza Kiwami 3 will have a large impact on both the Kiwami series and the entire Yakuza franchise. This is further supported by the simultaneous release of Dark Ties, a separate spin-off game. Dark Ties promises intense boxing action and a variety of side stories focusing on Yoshitaka Mine, a character originally from Yakuza 3.

I’ve been following the news about the next Yakuza games, and honestly, the conversation hasn’t been about the story at all – it’s been about the casting choice for Yakuza Kiwami 3. A lot of fans, myself included, were really upset to hear they’d cast someone accused of serious offenses. Despite that, there’s still a ton of excitement for the game, especially because we’re all hoping Yakuza 3 gets the Kiwami treatment too – Yakuza Kiwami 1 and Kiwami 2 looked amazing and played so well! Speaking of those two, it’s awesome they’re also coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 in January 2025. With Yakuza Kiwami 3 launching soon, we’ll all get a better idea of where Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is taking the series and what the future holds for this incredible Sega franchise.

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2026-02-11 08:04