The Yakuza series, now rebranded as Like A Dragon, has a storied legacy in the gaming world, particularly among fans of vibrant storytelling and engaging gameplay. With the announcement of Yakuza Kiwami 3, excitement was palpable. Yet, as the game launched, it quickly became evident that this installment might be considered more of a misstep than a masterstroke.
A Controversial Casting Choice
Central to the controversy surrounding Kiwami 3 is the casting of Japanese actor Teruyuki Kagawa, who voices the villain Goh Hamazaki. Early criticism centered on the perceived miscasting, which many felt turned the character from a formidable figure into something more akin to a caricature. Adding fuel to the fire, Kagawa’s past behavior—he admitted to assaulting a staff member at a hostess club—raised questions among fans. Petitions demanding his removal reached the forefront of discussions, sparking a debate on whether art should be judged on the actions of its creators.
Combat Mechanics: A Step Backwards
One of the most glaring issues with Kiwami 3 is its combat mechanics. Players familiar with the franchise noted a regression in combat fluidity compared to newer titles. While the previous game, Like A Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, showcased a more nimble Kiryu, Kiwami 3 features combat that feels sluggish and clunky. This snags the game’s pacing, resulting in multiple instances of unresponsive actions and missed attacks against stationary enemies.
While Kiryu showcases a new Ryukyu fighting style, the style doesn’t offer a memorable experience or seamless integration into future installments. The combat, which earlier iterations allowed players to explore, predicates itself on infuriating mechanics, such as enemies blocking mid-combo. Boss fights that add new resistance auras further exacerbate frustrations, taking away from the thrilling experience that players anticipate.
Storyline: Faithful Yet Lackluster
Perhaps Kiwami 3’s biggest flaw lies in its story. The original Yakuza 3 had an uphill battle with a plot that struggled to captivate audiences, focused on land disputes and conspiracies—elements that struggle to resonate with players even a decade later. The remake attempts to stick closely to the original narrative, occasionally introducing new scenes that add little value and instead feel like padding.
One shockingly poor plot twist, which we won’t spoil, garnered criticism for its lack of finesse, with comparisons made to some of Hollywood’s worst narratives. Such moments overshadow the otherwise nostalgic experience.
A Mixed Bag of Side Content
Despite the primary narrative’s shortcomings, Kiwami 3 does manage to redeem itself in its side content. Engaging in offbeat side quests and amusing mini-games is where the game shines. Players can enjoy activities like karaoke and batting cages, and even the quirky return of bowling after a decade-long absence. One standout feature is the management of the Morning Glory orphanage, where Kiryu bonds with children through cooking, assisting with homework, and engaging in recreational activities—a charming interlude amid the main storyline.
Conversely, the biker gang side activity tends to wear thin. Initially engaging, it quickly devolves into a formulaic reskin of previous mechanics, demanding progress that may often stifle players eager to continue the main quest.
Dark Ties: An Underwhelming Expansion
Adding to the game’s content is Dark Ties, an expansion that serves as a prequel focusing on antagonist Yoshitaka Mine. Unfortunately, rather than enhancing player experience, it tends to dilute it, offering a thin narrative and recycled gameplay elements. The short duration, coupled with the lack of engaging character exploration or unique mechanics, means players asking for more are likely to feel let down.
Moreover, the darker themes portrayed through the interactions with character Tsuyoshi Kanda, who embodies toxic masculinity and casual misogyny, feel misplaced and uneasy, especially within the context of the game’s broader narrative.
Visual and Quality of Life Improvements
In terms of technical enhancements, Kiwami 3 certainly benefits from updated graphics and some quality-of-life improvements. However, these updates don’t significantly alter the overall experience. Players have noted specific visual flaws, such as overly yellow sunset scenes and dark nighttime visuals—issues that hint at a desire for better polish upon release.
Nostalgic Touches: Retro Games and Fan Service
One distinctive feature that Kiwami 3 brings to light is the inclusion of retro Game Gear and arcade games, offering a whimsical nod to nostalgia. Gamers can lose themselves in quirky titles like Magical Truck Adventure, but this novelty is a double-edged sword. While it adds variety, it also underscores how little fresh content exists in the main game.
Through its imperfections, Yakuza Kiwami 3 stands as a case study in missed expectations—a combination of poor narrative choices, regressive mechanics, and problematic portrayals intertwined with moments of endearing charm. As the franchise moves forward, fans hope for a return to form that revitalizes the series’ much-beloved qualities.