Celebrating Two Decades of the Yakuza & Like a Dragon Series: A Look Back and Forward
As we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the beloved Like a Dragon and Yakuza series, it’s a moment of both reflection and anticipation for fans and developers alike. Spearheaded by Ryu Ga Gotoku (RGG) Studio, this iconic series has not only captivated audiences in Japan but has also carved a significant niche in the Western gaming market. To honor this milestone, Sega has released three updated titles for the Xbox Series X|S: Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, along with enhanced versions of Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2.
The Yakuza series has always been celebrated for its compelling storytelling and intricate depiction of Japanese urban life. With the launch of these updated editions, fans are provided with new features and languages, further expanding the series’ accessibility and appeal.
New Additions in Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut
Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut is a fresh take on the series’ origin story. This version introduces additional cutscenes that enhance the narrative depth, alongside an innovative online co-operative mode titled ‘Red Light Raid.’ This mode offers players a new way to engage with the game by teaming up with others. Notably, the game now includes a new English voice-over, broadening its linguistic reach with text support in French, Italian, German, Spanish, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, and Russian. The addition of the theme song ‘Bubble,’ which was missing from the original Western release, is a delightful nod to long-time fans.
Revisiting the Classics: Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2
Yakuza Kiwami, a complete remake of the series’ inaugural game, invites players to step into the shoes of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza embroiled in a 10-billion-yen conspiracy within Tokyo’s vibrant red-light district. This version enhances the original experience with multilingual support and includes songs like ‘Receive You [Reborn]’ and ‘Bleed,’ which were not part of the initial Western release.
In Yakuza Kiwami 2, players witness the return of Kazuma Kiryu, known as ‘The Dragon of Dojima,’ who faces off against ‘The Dragon of Kansai,’ Ryuji Goda, in a fierce clash between rival yakuza factions. Like its predecessors, Kiwami 2 offers expanded language options, ensuring a more inclusive experience for global audiences.
Reflections from RGG Studio’s Developers
In celebration of this anniversary, key members of RGG Studio, including Masayoshi Yokoyama, Hiroyuki Sakamoto, and Ryosuke Horii, shared their insights on the series’ journey and future.
Masayoshi Yokoyama, the Executive Producer at RGG Studio, reminisced about the series’ origins in Japan, where it gained popularity as a game allowing players to explore the nightlife district. He attributes part of the series’ appeal in the West to its authentic portrayal of Japanese city life, particularly through the fictional city of Kamurocho, based on Tokyo’s Kabukicho.
Hiroyuki Sakamoto, the Chief Producer of the series, highlighted the initial intent to create a drama centered around Japanese urban environments. Over time, as the game was localized, it found a dedicated Western fanbase, turning it into a global intellectual property. Sakamoto expressed his commitment to developing policies that ensure the series’ worldwide enjoyment.
Ryosuke Horii, the Producer and Director of Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties, expressed gratitude for the series’ international success. Despite being initially designed for Japanese audiences, the series’ unique elements have resonated broadly. Horii particularly appreciates the global community’s embrace of the series, especially through karaoke—a feature that bonds players despite language barriers.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Series
As the series moves forward, RGG Studio is set to release Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties on February 12, 2026. Yokoyama is confident in the quality of this upcoming release, which promises to delve deeper into character development rather than just the setting. Horii emphasized the challenge of remaking a beloved title, striving to offer a fresh take that honors the original while captivating new players.
Sakamoto hinted at future projects beyond the upcoming release, while Yokoyama assured fans that the studio would continue to focus on works reflecting Japanese culture and contemporary society.
A Journey Worth Celebrating
The 20th anniversary of the Yakuza series is a testament to its enduring appeal and evolving narrative. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the series, now is the perfect time to dive into the extensive world of Like a Dragon and Yakuza. With updated titles available on Xbox Series X|S, players can prepare for the next chapter with Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties set for release in early 2026.
It’s remarkable to consider the journey of this series from its early days to its current status as a beloved global phenomenon. As we look to the future, the adventures within the Yakuza universe promise to be as thrilling and immersive as ever. For more updates and insights into this evolving series, keep an eye on Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s future endeavors.
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