Yakuza Kiwami
" Engaging action-adventure RPG with fluid combat and rich storytelling but uneven pacing and difficulty spikes "
Yakuza Kiwami Review
Yakuza Kiwami is a remake of the original Yakuza game, revitalized with modern graphics and gameplay mechanics while retaining its classic story. Players appreciate the emotional depth and character development, especially the connections to Yakuza 0, which many recommend playing first for full narrative impact. The game features a unique "Majima Everywhere" system that adds dynamic encounters and progression to the Dragon fighting style. Combat is generally praised for its fluidity and entertaining Heat Actions, though some bosses are criticized for their excessive health and difficulty spikes.
While the story delivers a personal and gritty experience, it is often seen as less compelling and more clichéd compared to Yakuza 0. The side content and substories offer humor and charm but are considered lighter and sometimes repetitive. The remake’s graphics and audio are well received, though some reused assets and dated elements remind players of its origins. Overall, it’s a solid, heartfelt game that complements the series well.
Highlights
Players praise the Majima Everywhere system for its fun and surprising encounters that enhance gameplay progression.
The combat mechanics are fluid and satisfying, with entertaining Heat Actions and multiple fighting styles.
The storyline, while not as strong as Yakuza 0, still offers emotional moments and solid character development.
Graphics and voice acting receive positive notes, with the soundtrack and karaoke tracks particularly standing out.
Substories provide humor and heartfelt moments, adding depth to the Kamurocho setting.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the padded main story with filler quests that can detract from pacing and narrative focus.
Some boss fights are seen as frustrating due to high health pools and repetitive mechanics.
The combat, though enjoyable, can feel unbalanced and clunky at times.
Many players feel the game is weaker than Yakuza 0, especially in story and side content quality.
The "Majima Everywhere" system can become repetitive, and some encounters are difficult to trigger.
Certain reused assets and dated design elements remind players of the game’s age.
Pros
- • Majima Everywhere system adds unique, fun gameplay encounters throughout the game.
- • Combat is fluid and satisfying with varied fighting styles and entertaining Heat Actions.
- • Strong voice acting brings emotional weight to characters and story scenes.
- • Soundtrack and karaoke tracks are memorable and enhance the game’s atmosphere.
- • Substories provide humor and heartfelt moments enriching the Kamurocho setting.
- • Graphics are polished and updated while maintaining the original game’s charm.
- • Story offers emotional payoff especially for players familiar with Yakuza 0.
Cons
- • Main story feels padded with filler and irrelevant side quests.
- • Boss fights are often frustrating due to large health pools and difficulty spikes.
- • Combat can feel unbalanced and clunky, especially for newcomers.
- • Majima Everywhere encounters may become repetitive and intrusive.
- • Story and side content are generally weaker compared to Yakuza 0.
- • Some reused assets and dated design elements reduce immersion.
- • Certain characters have unexplained personality shifts affecting story cohesion.
Rating Criteria
SEGA’s critically-acclaimed entry that started a legend. Become Kazuma Kiryu, an up-and-coming yakuza who takes the fall for the murder of a crime boss, only to emerge from prison ten years later to a changed world. Remastered from the ground up, now in 4K and uncapped framerates on PC.
