It appears that SEGA may be keeping a remake of Yakuza 3 in the chamber. Fans are speculating over on Twitter that Sega’s latest sale on Steam is likely linked to a new announcement related to Yakuza 3 as the whole series just went on sale with the sole exception of Yakuza 3 Remastered.
What further sets fire to the rumor mill is the fact that Yakuza developers RGG Studios has an RGG Summit planned for next month on September 24 where they will be showcasing their brand-new upcoming projects. Earlier RGG Summits have featured major announcements for Yakuza titles such as the likes of last year’s Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth and 2023’s Like a Dragon Ishin, a remake of the Japan-only Samurai spin-off game Yakuza Ishin.
Ever since the launch of Yakuza Kiwami 1 and 2, which are remakes of the original Yakuza 1 and 2 respectively, Yakuza Kiwami 3 has been one of the most highly requested releases from Yakuza fans. Much of that stems from Yakuza 3’s more controversial qualities such as its rough animations, slow intro but most importantly its combat system which many new Yakuza fans regard as the weakest in the series.
One game we do know that RGG Studios is working on however is Stranger Than Heaven, a game we still aren’t sure whether it’s part of the Yakuza series or an entirely new IP. What we’ve seen of the game does deviate a fair bit from the things we typically see in a Yakuza game such as the protagonist having the option of actually killing thugs during fights. The combat too feels grittier and more visceral than Yakuza’s typical beat-em-up (or turn-based) shenanigans that we all know and love.
Personally, I don’t see the appeal of a Yakuza Kiwami 3. Part of that is because Yakuza Kiwami 2 is my least favorite entry in the series, and part of that is also because I’ve always had a soft spot for Yakuza 3. It’s a really strong story featuring some of the finest character moments of the series and I’m one of the few Yakuza fans who actually enjoy its combat. It’s slower and more reactive than the other entries, but I feel that’s what makes it stand out from the others.
Whether it’s a Yakuza 3 remake or something else though, we’ll hopefully find out next month on September 24.
