The Like a Dragon and Yakuza series from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has reached its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of storytelling focused on Japan’s urban nightlife and yakuza culture. To commemorate this milestone, Sega has released three titles for Xbox Series X|S today: Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, Yakuza Kiwami, and Yakuza Kiwami 2. These releases offer both new players and longtime fans the chance to explore the series’ evolution and experience updated content.
Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut Brings Updated Features
Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut serves as the origin story of the series and includes several enhancements over the original version. The release features new cutscenes and an online co-operative mode called “Red Light Raid,” alongside a new English dub. Text language support has been expanded to include French, Italian, German, Spanish, Latam Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, and Russian. Additionally, the release restores the theme song “Bubble,” which was not included in the western release of the original game.
Remakes of Yakuza Kiwami and Kiwami 2
Yakuza Kiwami is a complete remake of the first game in the series. Players step into the shoes of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza navigating a 10-billion-yen conspiracy in Tokyo’s red-light district. The updated version adds text language support in multiple languages and includes the previously omitted songs “Receive You [Reborn]” and “Bleed.”
Yakuza Kiwami 2 continues Kiryu’s story as he faces rival gang leader Ryuji Goda in a full-scale yakuza conflict. This edition also features expanded language options, allowing a wider audience to experience the game in their preferred language.
Reflections from the Development Team
Members of RGG Studio shared their thoughts on the series’ growth in the West and the development of upcoming titles. Executive Producer Masayoshi Yokoyama noted that while the first Yakuza game gained popularity in Japan as a cabaret club-style exploration game, Western players were drawn to the series for its portrayal of Japanese city life. Chief Producer Hiroyuki Sakamoto emphasized the series’ transition from a Japan-centric narrative to an IP enjoyed worldwide.
Producer and Director Ryosuke Horii highlighted the unique connections fans have developed with the games, especially in how they engage with Japanese culture and music, including learning songs despite language barriers. The team expressed gratitude for the global audience that has embraced the series over the years.
Looking Ahead: Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties
RGG Studio is preparing for the next major releases, Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties, scheduled for February 12, 2026. Yokoyama noted that these titles will focus more on character-driven narratives than city exploration. Horii explained that the team approached the remakes carefully, aiming to respect the original games while enhancing the experience for both returning and new players. Sakamoto confirmed that the studio is also planning additional projects for the series’ future.
Continuing the Journey
Players can begin or continue their experience with Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, Yakuza Kiwami, and Yakuza Kiwami 2 on Xbox Series X|S ahead of the upcoming releases. The 20th anniversary of the Like a Dragon and Yakuza series highlights the studio’s commitment to depicting Japanese culture and urban environments through immersive storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When were the new Yakuza games released?
Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, Yakuza Kiwami, and Yakuza Kiwami 2 were released today for Xbox Series X|S in celebration of the series’ 20th anniversary.
Which languages are supported in the new releases?
The updated titles include text language support in French, Italian, German, Spanish, Latam Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, and Russian.
When will Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties be released?
Both Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties are scheduled for release on February 12, 2026.
What new features are in Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut?
The Director’s Cut includes new cutscenes, an online co-operative mode called “Red Light Raid,” a new English dub, expanded text language options, and the previously unreleased theme song “Bubble.”
Do the remakes include content that was missing in the original western releases?
Yes. Yakuza Kiwami now includes the songs “Receive You [Reborn]” and “Bleed,” and Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut features the song “Bubble,” all of which were absent in earlier western versions.
