Yakuza Kiwamis Switch Release Finally Settles One Series Debate

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Yakuza Kiwamis Switch Release Finally Settles One Series Debate

Key Takeaways

  • Yakuza Kiwami on Switch settles the debate on the best starting point for new players.
  • Yakuza Kiwami is recommended due to its modern design and blending of the original story.
  • Series veterans suggest Yakuza 0, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, or Yakuza Kiwami as good starting points.

As a long-time fan of the Yakuza series who has witnessed its evolution from the original PlayStation 2 days to the modern masterpieces it is today, I can confidently say that the upcoming release of Yakuza Kiwami on the Nintendo Switch is a game changer for newcomers to this incredible franchise. The debate about where to start in the series has been ongoing, but with the release of Yakuza Kiwami, I believe Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have finally settled it once and for all – this remake of the game that started it all is the ideal starting point for new players.

The latest news that Yakuza Kiwami is coming to Nintendo Switch signals the initial time Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s acclaimed series will be playable on a Nintendo system. Given the surge in popularity of this series over the past few years, even with its name change from Yakuza to Like a Dragon, it’s understandable that Sega would aim to bring the series within reach of as many gamers as possible. The Nintendo Switch version of Yakuza Kiwami should help attract new fans, but the franchise in general can be complex for newcomers due to factors like the rebranding and multiple entry points to jump into the story.

For those unfamiliar with the game, it might not be obvious that “Yakuza Kiwami” is a 2016 remake of the original PlayStation 2 game, “Yakuza,” which was called “Like a Dragon” in Japan. While the storyline of “Yakuza Kiwami” mostly revisits the roots of the series and the rise to fame of protagonist Kazuma Kiryu, there’s some disagreement among fans about where newcomers should start with the franchise, considering the prequel and soft restart that the series includes. However, Sega releasing “Yakuza Kiwami” on the Nintendo Switch first could potentially end this debate for good.

The Best Starting Point for New Yakuza/Like a Dragon Players is Debatable

Multiple Like a Dragon Games Can Be Great Jumping Off Points

Although it may appear that the initial remake of Yakuza would be the ideal introduction, the series isn’t as straightforward for beginners due to its varied titles like “Yakuza” and “Like a Dragon.” Discussing the best entry points can become complex. Nevertheless, the community usually suggests three games that are suitable for newcomers based on their preferences:

If you’re a fan wanting to delve into the narrative of the Like a Dragon series in its original order, starting with Yakuza Kiwami is the logical choice, as it combines contemporary design with the series’ initial plot. However, some enthusiasts might suggest you begin with Yakuza 0, as it serves as a prequel to the franchise and takes place first in the timeline. Additionally, it offers one of the best stories in the series and a wealth of optional content. Another option for newcomers is to start directly with Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the seventh installment in the series, which marks a transition to a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and introduces turn-based JRPG combat instead of action-brawler fights.

Here are typically the top three starting places for newcomers to the series, yet some longtime enthusiasts might suggest beginning with the initial Yakuza game on the PS2, although this option may seem less approachable in today’s era of gaming.

Yakuza Kiwami Marking the Series’ Switch Debut Solidifies it as the Ideal Starting Point

The Remake of the Game That Started it All Has Been the Best Starting Point All Along

Although there are several entry points for the Like a Dragon series, Sega and RGG appear to have settled the debate in favor of starting with Yakuza Kiwami. As this remake is set to launch on Nintendo Switch on October 24, newcomers to the series on this platform will find themselves beginning their journey with this game. This release date also aligns with the premiere of Amazon Prime’s Like a Dragon: Yakuza TV series on October 25, allowing players to immerse themselves in the original tale across two distinct formats.

As a dedicated Nintendo Switch gamer, I’m super excited to dive into Yakuza Kiwami! With a hint that more games from this series might join the console family or even its upcoming successor, I can’t help but wonder what’s next. Since Yakuza 0 shares the same engine as Kiwami, it seems like bringing over this installment could be a walk in the park. However, Yakuza Kiwami 2 leverages the more robust Dragon Engine, which might mean that Nintendo Switch players have to wait for the console’s successor before experiencing Kiwami 2 directly.

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2024-08-31 00:55