Get ready to delve into the gritty world of the Yakuza on the Nintendo Switch! Yakuza Kiwami, a remake of the original 2005 PlayStation 2 title, is set to release on October 24th. This marks the much-anticipated arrival of the beloved action RPG series on Nintendo’s popular console, offering fans a fresh opportunity to experience the thrilling story of Kazuma Kiryu’s journey.
For those unfamiliar with the series, Yakuza Kiwami follows Kiryu, a former yakuza member who is wrongly imprisoned for a murder he didn’t commit. Upon his release, he finds himself caught in a web of conspiracies and violence, as he sets out to clear his name and unravel the truth.
The Switch release of Yakuza Kiwami is particularly noteworthy, as it’s the first time a mainline Yakuza game has been available on a Nintendo console since the first two games were ported to the Wii U in 2013. Previously, the developer, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, had expressed concerns about the series’ suitability for the Switch, citing potential performance issues and the console’s younger demographic. However, with the Switch’s growing library of diverse games, the studio ultimately decided to bring Yakuza Kiwami to the platform.
This release provides an excellent opportunity for newcomers to explore the Yakuza series, which encompasses a vast library of titles, including mainline entries, spin-offs, and even games with different protagonists like Ichiban Kasuga and Takayuki Yagami. While the series has a consistent overarching narrative and gameplay style, each game offers its own unique twists and turns, often incorporating elaborate minigames and experimenting with combat mechanics. For instance, later installments incorporate turn-based RPG combat, a departure from the series’ traditional action-focused approach.
With Yakuza Kiwami serving as a remake of the first game, it provides an ideal starting point for newcomers to dive into the series’ captivating story and immersive world. The game’s release on Switch opens up a new audience for this beloved franchise, offering a chance to experience the gripping crime drama, engaging action, and compelling characters that have captivated fans for years.
