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Following the success of Yakuza 0, Kiwami, and Kiwami 2, RGG Studio remastered Yakuza 3, 4, and 5 to allow newer fans to experience Kiryu Kazuma’s complete saga. This review delves into Yakuza 5 Remastered, exploring its strengths and weaknesses.

Yakuza 5 Remastered

Like its predecessor, Yakuza 5 Remastered tells its story through the perspectives of multiple protagonists. Kiryu Kazuma, now living under an assumed identity, is pulled back into the conflict between the Tojo Clan and the Omi Alliance after the Tojo Clan chairman vanishes. Saejima Taiga, back in prison after the events of Yakuza 4, breaks out upon hearing of his sworn brother Majima’s alleged murder. Haruka Sawamura, Kiryu’s adopted daughter, pursues her idol dreams in Osaka’s Sotenbori district, only to become entangled in a criminal conspiracy after her manager, and Majima’s ex-wife, is assassinated. Shun Akiyama, returning from Yakuza 4, runs his loan business in Sotenbori and becomes involved in Haruka’s predicament. Finally, Tatsuo Shinada, a former baseball player disgraced by false accusations of match-fixing, is offered a chance to clear his name and investigate the incident for a substantial reward.

Engaging Combat Across Five Protagonists

Despite its age, Yakuza 5 Remastered delivers satisfying combat. Kiryu’s balanced street fighting style makes him versatile, while Saejima’s brute strength allows him to unleash devastating attacks. Akiyama’s swift kicks and acrobatic combos offer a more agile approach.

Yakuza 5 Remastered

The Heat Action system returns, allowing players to execute cinematic finishing moves. These context-sensitive attacks are influenced by the environment and weapons, adding a layer of strategic depth. Enemies can become intimidated by aggressive play, either fleeing or calling for backup.

Yakuza 5 Remastered

Shinada, however, feels less polished. His lack of speed and power makes combat slower, and his reliance on weapons necessitates grinding for funds. The high encounter rate can also disrupt the flow of gameplay.

A unique aspect of Yakuza 5 Remastered is the ability to play as Haruka. Instead of brawling, she engages in dance battles and stage performances. Surprisingly, this gameplay mechanic is treated with the same depth as the other characters’ combat, with its own upgrade system.

Yakuza 5 Remastered

Exploring Five Distinct Japanese Cities

Yakuza 5 Remastered expands the series’ virtual tourism with five distinct locations: Nagasugai, Tsukimino, Kineicho, Sotenbori, and Kamurocho. Each area offers unique environments, cultural experiences, and side stories. Players can engage in familiar activities like karaoke, hostess clubs, and arcade games, alongside character-specific activities.

Kiryu’s taxi driving job in Nagasugai offers a surprisingly detailed simulation, requiring careful driving and interacting with passengers. This contrasts with the high-octane street races he participates in, showcasing the game’s diverse gameplay. Saejima’s hunting, Haruka’s idol activities, and Shinada’s baseball training further enrich the gameplay experience.

Yakuza 5 Remastered

A Narrative That Overreaches

While tackling themes like prison reform, the dark side of the idol industry, and match-fixing, Yakuza 5 Remastered‘s narrative struggles to effectively convey its central theme of pursuing dreams. The lack of a strong connecting thread between the five protagonists makes the story feel disjointed. Shinada, despite having a compelling personal story, feels shoehorned into the final chapters.

Yakuza 5 Remastered

The pacing suffers from unnecessary segments that could be removed without impacting the plot. This extended length for each character’s arc makes it harder to remember previous plot points. The final antagonist’s reveal is poorly executed, lacking proper buildup and feeling underwhelming.

Yakuza 5 Remastered

Despite its flaws, Yakuza 5 Remastered offers touching moments, thrilling action sequences, and well-developed supporting characters. However, the attempt to juggle five protagonists and five locations ultimately detracts from the narrative.

Conclusion

Yakuza 5 Remastered offers a sprawling experience filled with engaging combat, diverse activities, and exploration of Japanese cityscapes. While the narrative overreaches and suffers from pacing issues, the game still provides a unique and entertaining experience.

Yakuza 5 Remastered