Yakuza Kiwami 3 officially announced with new trailer and side story

GAMING NEWS Rine Ikarus - 26-Sept-2025, 2:42 pm

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has officially lifted the curtain on Yakuza Kiwami 3, confirming that the long-rumored remake is real and set to launch on February 12, 2026. The announcement came during the latest RGG Summit 2025, where the developer showcased the game’s first trailer, complete with upgraded visuals, reworked gameplay, and even a brand-new side story.

The remake brings back the events of Yakuza 3, originally released in 2009 for the PlayStation 3, but completely rebuilt in the Dragon Engine. Alongside the graphical overhaul, Yakuza Kiwami 3 promises quality-of-life improvements, new cutscenes, and dual Japanese/English voice acting. The reveal also confirmed that the bundle will include Yakuza 3 Gaiden: Dark Ties, a spin-off following antagonist Yoshitaka Mine’s origins.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 Revives a Divisive Classic

The announcement is particularly exciting given that Yakuza 3 has long been considered one of the series’ weaker entries due to its slower pacing and clunky combat. Fans have been eager for a remake to bring the game in line with modern entries like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Interestingly, this reveal follows a recent leak that first sparked excitement about the project.

RGG also revealed some casting changes for the remake. Japanese actor Teruyuki Kagawa will portray Go Hamazaki, replacing the original character model, while Show Kasamatsu—best known for his role as Sato in Tokyo Vice—will play Rikiya Shimabukuro. The series’ signature setting of Kamurocho returns, alongside the Okinawa-based Ryukyu district, which expands Kiryu’s story beyond Tokyo.

The Yakuza Kiwami series has proven to be a fan favorite, with remakes of the first two games setting a high bar for this latest entry. The addition of Yakuza 3 Gaiden: Dark Ties only adds to the anticipation, promising deeper insight into one of the franchise’s most memorable villains. With release just months away, Yakuza Kiwami 3 looks set to give fans the definitive version of a story that has lingered in the shadows for far too long.

If you’re ready to revisit Kazuma Kiryu’s journey—or experience it for the first time—don’t forget to use our price comparator tool to secure the best deals on Yakuza Kiwami 3 when it launches.