Yakuza Kiwami — is it a masterpiece or a trash game? Years have passed since its release, and in November 2025 a Nintendo Switch2 version is also arriving. It’s a chance for longtime fans and first-time players alike to relive that legendary night. But will this port to the latest hardware truly meet expectations? Or will the rosy nostalgia peel away? In this article, we’ll thoroughly analyze the release date, price, supported platforms, pros, cons, and voices from social media, and even calculate a total score to shoot for a spot-on prediction.
- What Is Yakuza Kiwami?
- Yakuza Kiwami — Release Date, Price, Platforms, Genre, Publisher
- Strengths of Yakuza Kiwami
- Weaknesses of Yakuza Kiwami
- Frequently Asked Questions About Yakuza Kiwami
- Settings, Environment, and Accessories to Maximize Your Enjoyment of Yakuza Kiwami
- If You Love Yakuza Kiwami, Check These Out! Related Works & “Masterpiece” Picks
- Yakuza Kiwami vs. Yakuza Kiwami 2 — Which Should You Buy?
- Expectations and Concerns on Social Media About Yakuza Kiwami
- Is Yakuza Kiwami a Masterpiece or a Trash Game? (Verdict)
What Is Yakuza Kiwami?
Yakuza Kiwami is a full remake of the first entry in Sega’s beloved action-adventure “Yakuza” series. Based on the robust story of the original “Yakuza” (released in 2005), it has been rebuilt with a modern game engine and refined systems. It’s not a simple HD remaster—new scenarios, improved battle styles, and added substories make it worthy of being called a complete edition. On November 13, 2025, a Nintendo Switch2 version joins the lineup, providing a more comfortable experience with better frame rates and resolution.
Series Overview and Positioning
Yakuza Kiwami revives the series’ “origin” with modern tech. The original “Yakuza” is set in Tokyo’s Kamurocho and follows former yakuza protagonist Kazuma Kiryu, who is drawn back into conflict after serving 10 years in prison. While keeping that core framework intact, Kiwami completely refreshes graphics, direction, and voice acting. In addition, many new cutscenes and conversation events were added to align with the sequel “Yakuza 0.” As a result, both newcomers and longtime fans can immerse themselves in the story without disconnect.
Elements That Welcome Beginners
Because “Yakuza” is a long-running series, some feel it might be “hard” or that you “won’t understand without playing previous entries,” but Kiwami is designed to be approachable for first-timers. Tutorials are naturally woven into the early story, and the battle system lets you switch among three styles—“Rush,” “Beast,” and a “balanced” style—so even action newcomers can enjoy a sense of exhilaration. The game is also packed with substories and minigames—mahjong, karaoke, Pocket Circuit, and more. This joy of “detours” is a hallmark of the series, letting you not only progress the main story but also “play the city of Kamurocho itself.”
Yakuza Kiwami — Release Date, Price, Platforms, Genre, Publisher
Yakuza Kiwami is a full remake of the original “Yakuza” released in 2005 and is available on multiple platforms. The Nintendo Switch version launched on October 25, 2024, and the latest Nintendo Switch2 version is scheduled for release on November 13, 2025. The Switch2 version is download-only and offers higher resolution and a more stable frame rate. The latest info is organized in the table below.
Release Dates and Prices
| Platform | Release Date | Price (tax incl.) | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch | October 25, 2024 | 2,980 yen | Physical / Download |
| Nintendo Switch2 | November 13, 2025 | 2,980 yen | Download only |
| Bundle (Kiwami + Kiwami 2) Nintendo Switch2 |
November 13, 2025 | 5,990 yen | Download only |
Note that save data can be transferred from the Switch version to the Switch2 version, but not the other way around (Switch2 → Switch). Be sure to confirm your play environment before purchasing.
Supported Platforms and Play Environment
Yakuza Kiwami is currently available on the following platforms:
- PlayStation 4 / PlayStation 3 (previous releases)
- PC (Steam)
- Nintendo Switch
- Nintendo Switch2
The genre is action-adventure. You’re free to explore the city while progressing the main story and numerous substories. Developed and published by Sega Corporation, the series enjoys high acclaim in Japan and abroad.
Strengths of Yakuza Kiwami
Yakuza Kiwami preserves the appeal of the original while adding many refinements so modern players can enjoy it comfortably. Beyond graphics upgrades, the overhaul of battle systems, the addition of new scenarios, and stronger presentation deliver fresh surprises even for series veterans. Below are the most highly praised points.
Game Systems
Combat uses a three-style switch system: “Rush,” “Beast,” and a “balanced style (style change)”. You can change your approach based on enemies and situations, letting even those unfamiliar with action games fight strategically. Thanks to the “Kiwami System,” you can unleash powerful special moves when enemies take certain actions. These animations feel extremely satisfying, and the game’s action ranks highly within the series.
Graphics and Presentation
As a major leap from the original, character models and cityscapes have been refined to something akin to the Dragon Engine. The neon of Kamurocho at night and reflections on rain-soaked streets enhance immersion. Newly recorded, fully voiced cutscenes also raise the overall quality of the drama significantly.
Storytelling
The heart of this game’s appeal is the human drama. The relationship between Kazuma Kiryu and his childhood friend Akira Nishikiyama, his encounter with and protection of the orphaned girl Haruka, and the underworld power struggles—all intertwine to deliver an experience that goes beyond a typical game, like watching a single film. In Kiwami, additional episodes from Nishikiyama’s perspective explore the reasons for his transformation and his emotions more deeply. This increases the persuasiveness of the overall narrative and makes it much easier to empathize.
Weaknesses of Yakuza Kiwami
While Yakuza Kiwami boasts many improvements, players have also pointed out some frustrations and issues. These aren’t necessarily deal-breakers, but knowing them beforehand helps you judge whether the game suits you.
Sense of Volume
If you only follow the main story, experienced players can clear it in about 15–20 hours. You can spend dozens more hours tackling substories and minigames, but some people feel the “main story is short.” In particular, veterans who know the original’s developments may find the overall freshness limited even with the added content.
System Frustrations
While style switching increases strategic depth, some players find the controls complex. Certain substory “fetch quests” can feel routine, which may disappoint users accustomed to modern open-world design. In addition, compared with home console versions, some graphical expressions and load times are slightly inferior on the Switch and Switch2 versions, which may be noticeable depending on your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yakuza Kiwami
Here we summarize common questions from those considering a purchase or planning to play, including concerns about the unreleased Switch2 version.
Q1. What’s the difference between the Nintendo Switch version and the Switch2 version?
The Switch2 version has more stable resolution and frame rates than the Switch version, so smoother performance is expected. However, the game content itself is the same—no new story or modes. Differences are essentially limited to performance and load times.
Q2. Can I transfer my save data?
You can transfer saves from the Switch version to the Switch2 version. Conversely, you cannot transfer from the Switch2 version to the Switch version. Consider your future play environment when purchasing.
Q3. Is it okay if this is my first “Yakuza” game?
No problem. Yakuza Kiwami is a remake of the first entry, and the story begins here. It’s designed so you can understand the plot without prior knowledge—ideal as an entry point.
Q4. How long does it take to beat?
About 15–20 hours for the main story alone. If you tackle all substories, minigames, and collectibles, you can play for over 50 hours. Playtime varies greatly depending on how much you enjoy “detours.”
Q5. How does it differ from other platforms (PS4/PC)?
Game content is nearly identical, but PS4/PC versions further shorten frame times and load times and support 4K resolution. The big advantage of the Switch family is the ability to play in handheld mode.
Settings, Environment, and Accessories to Maximize Your Enjoyment of Yakuza Kiwami
Yakuza Kiwami is a story-driven action-adventure, and audiovisual immersion greatly affects enjoyment. Here are recommended settings and peripherals to enjoy the Switch2/Switch versions more comfortably and deeply.
Video Settings
Because the Switch2 version improves resolution and frame rate, use a TV or monitor that supports Full HD (1080p) or higher whenever possible. With an HDR-capable display, Kamurocho’s nightscape and neon shine even more realistically.
Audio Environment
BGM, ambient sounds, and voice acting are crucial to the “Yakuza” series. If possible, prepare a surround-capable headset or speaker system that can faithfully reproduce environmental audio. The positional impact of strikes in combat and the bustle of the city will boost immersion.
Peripherals
- microSD card (64GB+): The Switch2 version of “Kiwami” uses about 22GB, so if you buy the download-only version, you’ll need ample space.
- Pro Controller: For action-heavy combat, a Pro Controller that allows precise input is recommended.
- Cooling stand: Helpful for thermal management during long sessions.
Comfort Settings
Set the in-game camera sensitivity slightly higher than default (around 4 on a 5–6 step scale) for smoother viewpoint changes during combat and exploration. Turn on subtitles so you can follow the story even while moving or at lower volumes.
If You Love Yakuza Kiwami, Check These Out! Related Works & “Masterpiece” Picks
Players who enjoy Yakuza Kiwami should also consider other entries in the series and story-forward action-adventures often called “masterpieces.” Here are curated recommendations.
Yakuza Kiwami 2
A full remake of “Yakuza 2” (2006), featuring a large-scale story that spans both Kamurocho and Osaka’s Sotenbori. It adopts the Dragon Engine for combat, letting you fight virtually anywhere in the city for enhanced immersion. A Switch2 version is also scheduled for release on November 13, 2025, and if you buy it alongside “Kiwami” the same day, you can take advantage of a discounted bundle.
Yakuza 7: Like a Dragon
A bold shift from traditional action combat to command-based RPG battles. The protagonist is Ichiban Kasuga instead of Kazuma Kiryu, and the story unfolds in Yokohama’s Isezaki Ijincho. With a weighty narrative and great freedom in side content, it’s highly rated even by series newcomers.
Judgment
A legal-suspense action game starring Takuya Kimura as protagonist Takayuki Yagami. Set in Kamurocho, it follows a detective unraveling cases. It carries over the satisfying action of “Yakuza” while adding unique elements like investigations and tailing.
Yakuza Kiwami vs. Yakuza Kiwami 2 — Which Should You Buy?
Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2 are full remakes of “Yakuza” and “Yakuza 2,” respectively. Their stories connect directly, and by playing “Kiwami” first followed by “Kiwami 2,” you can experience Kazuma Kiryu’s journey in chronological order. Which one to start with depends on your play style and goals.
Comparison Table
| Item | Yakuza Kiwami | Yakuza Kiwami 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Original Release Year | 2005 (PS2) | 2006 (PS2) |
| Remake Releases | 2016 (PS4), 2024 (Switch), 2025 (Switch2) | 2017 (PS4), 2025 (Switch2) |
| Setting | Kamurocho | Kamurocho / Sotenbori |
| Battle System | Style switching (Rush / Beast / Balanced) | Dragon Engine, seamless battles |
| Story Positioning | Depicts the origins of Kazuma Kiryu | New conflicts and shifting relationships for Kiryu |
| Recommended Play Order | Start here if you’re new | Play after finishing “Kiwami” |
Conclusion
To enjoy the series in chronological order, it’s best to start with Yakuza Kiwami. However, if you want newer systems and a broader map, starting with “Kiwami 2” is still enjoyable. Since a bundle is available for the Switch2 versions released on the same day, grabbing both and playing them back-to-back is also recommended.
Expectations and Concerns on Social Media About Yakuza Kiwami
For the Nintendo Switch2 version of Yakuza Kiwami releasing in November 2025, fans and prospective buyers are voicing many opinions on social media and forums. Here are representative “expectations” and “concerns.”
● Expectations
Many fans are excited about the port to a latest-generation console. There’s also a shared sense of “if you were lucky enough to get a Switch2… you get to play a classic at the hottest timing.”
● Reassurance About Returning Voice Cast
Some fans feel reassured that the main cast (e.g., Hoka Kinoshita as Kurahashi) continue in their roles in the Switch2 port.
● Doubts and Complaints About Hardware Performance
On the other hand, concerns remain such as “will the cloud-related issues be resolved on Switch2?” and caution about potential bugs. While many expect that “the cloud nonsense will be fixed on Switch2,” some still prefer to wait and see.
Is Yakuza Kiwami a Masterpiece or a Trash Game? (Verdict)
Overall, Yakuza Kiwami leans toward “masterpiece.” Reviving the original story with modern tech is executed at a high level; the approachable structure for newcomers, added content that reinforces the narrative, and punchy action seal the deal. That said, the main story’s length and some routine substories divide opinion. Below are scores across five parameters.
Total Evaluation and Five Parameters
| Category | Score (out of 10) | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Story | 9 | Strengthened the robust original narrative for greater emotional impact |
| Battle System | 8 | Style switching adds strategy; the Kiwami System is exhilarating |
| Graphics & Direction | 8 | Major advances in Kamurocho’s nightlife atmosphere and character depiction |
| Volume | 7 | Main story is a bit short, but detours can compensate |
| Comfort | 8 | More stable on Switch2 with shorter load times |
Total Score: 40 / 50 (80 points) Considering its completeness as the series’ origin, the comfort of the Switch2 version, and the appeal of its story, this is a highly rated title. It’s especially recommended as a first step for newcomers to the “Yakuza” series.
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