During Nintendo’s Partner Showcase Direct on August 27, 2024, Yakuza Kiwami was announced to be coming to Nintendo Switch. This marks the first Yakuza game to be released onto the system, despite multiple releases of the older titles on other systems.
Kiwami will be available on October 24, 2024, a day before the Amazon Prime show Like A Dragon: Yakuza airs. This will be the perfect time for new players to get into the series, as both will be released around the same time.
Yakuza Kiwami Is The Perfect Way To Jump Into The Series
Yakuza Kiwami, developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and published by Sega, is a 2016 action-adventure game that is a full remake of the original Yakuza game from 2005. Released for PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4, the game is also available on multiple platforms, including PC and Xbox. “Kiwami” translates to “extreme,” reflecting the game’s enhancements and expanded content, which breathe new life into the beloved classic.
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Set in the fictional red-light district of Kamurocho, Yakuza Kiwami follows the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a yakuza member who takes the fall for a crime he didn’t commit to protect his best friend. After spending ten years in prison, Kiryu returns to a changed world. The Tojo Clan, the yakuza organization he once belonged to, is in chaos. Kiryu must navigate this tumultuous landscape while searching for answers about the whereabouts of a missing girl named Haruka, who holds the key to a massive fortune.
Kiwami Improves The Original Yakuza Game
Yakuza Kiwami is more than just a visual upgrade. The game features enhanced graphics that bring the world of Kamurocho to life like never before, re-recorded voice acting that adds depth to the characters, and additional content that wasn’t present in the original. This offers a fresh experience for both new and returning players. One of the most notable new features is the “Majima Everywhere” system, where Goro Majima, another key character in the series, unpredictably ambushes Kiryu in various scenarios. This mechanic adds humor and challenge to the game, keeping players on their toes as they explore Kamurocho.
The gameplay of Yakuza Kiwami is a thrilling blend of beat-’em-up combat, exploration, and many side activities. Players can engage in everything from karaoke and pocket racing to street brawls, providing a rich, immersive experience. The combat system is dynamic, with Kiryu able to switch between different fighting styles, each offering unique advantages in battle. This feature keeps the game fresh and exciting, ensuring players are always ready for action.
The Guide Hall is excited to return to the start of the series with Yakuza Kiwami on Switch. We’ve been itching for a good beat-’em-up and the return of a beloved character.