PGC NEWS

In 2015, RGG Studio celebrated 10 years of the Yakuza series with the release of Yakuza 0, a prequel set in 1988. This game offered longtime fans insight into the younger years of protagonist Kiryu Kazuma before the final chapter of his story in Yakuza 6. It also served as an excellent entry point for new fans, requiring no prior knowledge of the series. Recognizing this, RGG Studio remade the original Yakuza game from the PS2 era as Yakuza Kiwami, allowing newcomers to seamlessly continue Kiryu’s journey. With its availability on PS Plus Extra/Premium, this review explores what makes Yakuza Kiwami more than just a graphical upgrade.

Yakuza Kiwami

A Dragon’s Fall and Redemption

Six years after the events of Yakuza 0, Kiryu Kazuma has risen through the ranks of the Dojima Family, a subsidiary of the Tojo Clan. Known as the “Dragon of Dojima,” Kiryu is poised to lead his own organization. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he takes the fall for his close friend, Nishiki, after Nishiki kills the patriarch Dojima to protect Yumi, a cherished friend to both Kiryu and Nishiki. Sentenced to 10 years in prison, Kiryu hopes his sacrifice will protect his friends. Sadly, tragedy strikes again with the news of Yumi’s disappearance.

Upon his release, Kiryu faces a harsher reality: Nishiki has transformed into a ruthless and ambitious yakuza. The situation becomes even more complicated with the appearance of Haruka, a young girl claiming to be Yumi’s niece and the target of various gangs. To uncover the truth behind Yumi’s disappearance and protect Haruka, Kiryu must return to the world he left behind.

Yakuza Kiwami

Enhanced Storytelling and Character Development

Yakuza Kiwami is not a mere graphical overhaul; it significantly expands the original story. The most notable addition is the fleshed-out backstory of Nishiki. While the original game only hinted at his motivations, Kiwami reveals his tragic descent through new cutscenes focusing on his time during Kiryu’s imprisonment. We witness his struggles, his compromises, and the events that molded him into a cold-blooded leader. This, combined with the brotherly bond depicted in Yakuza 0, creates a compelling and sympathetic antagonist, despite his unforgivable actions.

Yakuza Kiwami

Further additions include new dialogue and subplots, strengthening the narrative and adding depth to key moments. These enhancements seamlessly integrate with the original story, making it difficult to discern the new content from the old.

Refining the Art of Combat

Kiryu utilizes four fighting styles: Brawler, Rush, Beast, and Dragon of Dojima. Brawler offers balanced power and speed; Rush emphasizes agility and precise strikes; Beast utilizes brute strength and environmental weapons; and Dragon of Dojima combines elements of all three. While seemingly borrowed from Yakuza 0, the combat system receives key improvements. New upgradeable techniques allow for smoother transitions between styles, encouraging dynamic combos and strategic play. Each style is better balanced, reducing reliance on any single one.

Yakuza Kiwami

Two minor drawbacks exist: the tutorial assumes familiarity with Yakuza 0, and the Dragon style remains underpowered for a significant portion of the game.

A City of Distractions

Kamurocho, while compact compared to other open-world games, is densely packed with activities. From bowling and baseball to karaoke and underground fight clubs, Kiwami offers a plethora of diversions. Numerous side quests featuring humorous and heartwarming stories further enrich the experience.

Yakuza Kiwami

The Majima Everywhere System: A Mixed Blessing

The “Majima Everywhere” system, introduced to give the popular character Goro Majima more screen time, sees him constantly challenging Kiryu to fights throughout Kamurocho. While this provides ample opportunity to hone combat skills and unlock Dragon style abilities, it diminishes the impact of story-driven encounters with Majima. The constant presence also leads to a brief narrative moment where Kiryu’s behavior deviates from his established character.

Yakuza Kiwami

However, “Majima Everywhere” is not without merit. Specific encounters trigger conversations that provide further insight into both characters and callback to Yakuza 0, adding depth to their relationship.

Yakuza Kiwami

Lingering Flaws

Despite the narrative enhancements, some weaknesses from the original persist. Yumi’s character and storyline remain underdeveloped, and her relationship with Kiryu lacks exploration. The antagonist Jingu is a one-dimensional villain motivated solely by power.

Yakuza Kiwami

Conclusion

Yakuza Kiwami successfully revitalizes the original game with enhanced storytelling, refined combat, and a wealth of content. While the “Majima Everywhere” system presents a mixed bag and some original flaws persist, Kiwami provides a compelling experience for both newcomers and returning fans. It serves as an excellent bridge to Yakuza 0 and a strong starting point for exploring the rest of the series.