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MONSTER

Yakuza Kiwami

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Yakuza Kiwami
Item: Yakuza Kiwami
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2017

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Crime, RPG, Drama, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 29, 2017

PlatformXbox One, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperRyu ga Gotoku Studios

Overview

Yakuza Kiwami is a remake of the 2005 open world action-adventure game Yakuza.

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami shines with emotional depth, rich character arcs, and a faithful, enhanced adaptation of its source material, masterfully blending gritty crime drama with surreal humor. Though pacing hiccups, abrupt twists, and tonal jitters surface, critics call it a standout entry—its storytelling brilliance far outshines minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The majority of critics praised Yakuza Kiwami’s story for its emotional depth, character development, and faithful adaptation of the original narrative. Many highlighted its ability to balance dramatic moments with the series’ signature blend of crime drama and surreal humor. GameCritics noted the “strong sense of characterization,” while IGN Italia and Siliconera commended the “depth,” “character development,” and “improved cut-scenes” that made the story more engaging than the original. Vandal and App Trigger emphasized the added cutscenes that deepened character motivations, with Vandal calling it a “faithful adaptation” that enriches Kiryu’s journey. Critics like GameSpew and We Got This Covered praised the narrative’s energy and twists, with the latter describing it as a “hard-boiled crime drama” that keeps players invested. The story’s exploration of themes like loyalty, betrayal, and redemption resonated strongly, with GamePro Germany noting its “emotional depth” and “well-developed characters,” setting it apart from typical gangster narratives. However, some critics pointed to flaws, including pacing issues, abrupt twists, and a reliance on melodrama. GameCritics criticized the script for lacking “grace” and being “heavy on melodrama and sentimentality,” while Push Square and InsideGamer.nl noted “glaring plot holes,” “pacing issues,” and a “rush” that undermined the story’s depth. Slant Magazine contrasted the narrative’s complexity with the game’s “surreal carnival games” and “strangely comedic sidequests,” suggesting a jarring tonal shift. Gamer.no and GameSpew also mentioned rushed plot advancements, and The Overpowered Noobs criticized “predictable and sexist” damsel-in-distress quests. Additionally, some reviewers, like InsideGamer.nl, felt the relationship between Kiryu and Nishiki lacked the emotional weight seen in Yakuza 0, while GameInformers noted the story’s “needlessly complicated” nature. These critiques, while valid, were often framed as minor drawbacks in an otherwise strong narrative. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with many calling Yakuza Kiwami a standout entry in the series. The story’s faithful adaptation, enhanced by new cutscenes and improved storytelling, was widely appreciated, as noted by critics like Vandal, App Trigger, and PlayStation LifeStyle, who emphasized how the additional scenes “flesh out character motivations” and elevate the narrative. While some issues with pacing and tonal inconsistencies were acknowledged, the majority viewed the story as a compelling, emotionally resonant experience. Critics like GameSpew, We Got This Covered, and DualShockers highlighted its engaging twists and strong writing, reinforcing its status as a foundational entry in the Yakuza saga. The combination of dramatic storytelling, character-driven moments, and the series’ unique blend of grit and humor solidified Yakuza Kiwami as a highly regarded title, with its positives far outweighing its flaws.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami shines with fluid, stylish combat and a vibrant open world, but its repetitive mechanics, frustrating AI, and underdeveloped content feel like a tired rehash, trading innovation for nostalgia.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Yakuza Kiwami receives praise for its refined combat system, which offers a variety of fighting styles and dynamic interactions. Critics like RPG Site and Game Informer highlight the "fluid and satisfying" brawler mechanics, with RPG Site noting the addition of the "Dragon Of Dojima" style and Gaming Age commending the "fantastic" controls on the PS4. The Majima Everywhere system is frequently lauded for injecting humor and unpredictability into encounters, as noted by Nintendojo and RPG Site, while Siliconera and Xbox Achievements appreciate the mix of RPG elements, minigames, and side missions that enrich the experience. Digital Chumps and Jeuxvideo.com emphasize the responsiveness of combat inputs and the immersive world of Kamurocho, with Jeuxvideo.com describing it as a "vibrant world" that complements the gameplay. The ability to switch between styles, such as Brawler, Rush, Beat, and Dragon, adds depth, and God is a Geek praises the "over-the-top animations" and the strategic potential of Heat Actions, which provide impactful finishers. Overall, the combat is seen as a core strength, with many reviewers acknowledging its evolution from the original Yakuza and its engaging, albeit simplistic, nature. However, several critics point to repetitive mechanics and design flaws that detract from the experience. RPG Fan and Worth Playing criticize the "tedious battles" and lack of engaging side activities, while Metro GameCentral and Destructoid argue that the combat system feels stagnant, with Metro GameCentral noting it's "almost exactly the same as Yakuza 0" and thus "repetitive." GameCritics and God is a Geek highlight issues with enemy AI and boss fights, which they describe as "frustrating" and "overly challenging," respectively. GameWatcher and Digitally Downloaded mention control issues and "excessive backtracking," with GameOver.gr specifically critiquing the quest design. App Trigger and TheXboxHub point to a "simplified" combat system and "predictable" scenarios, while Xbox Achievements and Gaming Age note that the mission structure is "straightforward" and lacks innovation. These criticisms suggest that while the gameplay is functional, it struggles with variety and polish, leading to a sense of stagnation over time. The overall consensus among critics is that Yakuza Kiwami delivers a solid, if not groundbreaking, gameplay experience that balances nostalgia with incremental improvements. While the combat system is widely appreciated for its fluidity and style variety—Siliconera and RPG Site call it "enjoyable and varied," and Gaming Age praises its "meaningful expansion"—the repetition of mechanics and lack of fresh content are recurring concerns. Destructoid and Metro GameCentral note the game's reliance on prior titles' formulas, which, while familiar, feels underdeveloped. The Majima Everywhere system and minigames are seen as fun diversions, but their novelty wears off quickly, as RPG Fan and Worth Playing observe. Despite these flaws, many reviewers, including Game Informer and USgamer, acknowledge the game's engaging open-world exploration and the satisfaction of character progression. Ultimately, Yakuza Kiwami is viewed as a competent, nostalgic experience that excels in its core combat but falters in innovation and variety, leaving players with a mixed impression of its gameplay design.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami's HD remaster delivers stunning visuals and smoother performance, but its dated animations, Switch hiccups, and 2005-era design flaws reveal a bittersweet upgrade. While PS4/PC versions shine with 1080p/4K polish and vibrant Kamurocho, the Switch port lags with blurry graphics and frame drops. Nostalgia wins over modernity, but it’s a mixed bag: "gorgeous" yet "stiff," "seamless" yet "archaic." A love letter to the past, but not a technical triumph.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The reviews of Yakuza Kiwami highlight its visual improvements as a significant step forward from the original 2005 PlayStation 2 release. Many critics praise the HD remastering, noting enhanced resolution, smoother frame rates, and vibrant environments. RPGamer emphasizes that the PS4 version boasts better load times, frame rate, and resolution, while NZGamer compares it to modern remakes like Ratchet and Clank, lauding the detailed streets of Kamurocho filled with neon-lit shops and unique architectural flourishes. PlayStation LifeStyle and COGconnected both highlight the game’s “gorgeous new coat of paint” and “visually stunning” presentation, with the PS4 Pro version running at 60fps and 1080p. The PC and Switch versions also receive nods for their graphical upgrades, with GameSpot and We Got This Covered celebrating the seamless open world and vividly recreated cityscapes, respectively. Critics like Critical Hits and Nintendo Life note that the Switch 2 version benefits from smooth 60fps and enhanced resolution, maintaining the series’ signature charm while modernizing its aesthetic. However, several reviewers point out persistent flaws and limitations in the game’s visual design. ZTGD criticizes the “nearly shot-for-shot remake” of the original, calling it “bare bones” compared to later entries in the series. Destructoid and Metro GameCentral highlight stiff animations and outdated character models, with the latter noting the PS2 roots are “always obvious” despite the updates. Performance issues plague the Nintendo Switch versions, as Noisy Pixel and But Why Tho? point out blurry visuals and inconsistent frame rates in docked mode, while Digitally Downloaded and Gaming Age mention gameplay visuals lagging behind the pristine cutscenes. SpazioGames and Vandal note that the PC version, while supporting 4K, lacks the “aesthetic vibrancy” of Yakuza 0, and PlaySense describes the graphics as “dated” despite improvements. Additionally, New Game Network and Xbox Achievements mention pop-in and underwhelming locations, while Hobby Consolas points to lingering loading times and fixed camera angles that feel archaic by modern standards. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Yakuza Kiwami successfully modernizes the original Yakuza with HD visuals, smoother performance, and a more immersive Kamurocho, but it remains a product of its era in terms of technical limitations and design choices. While the PS4 and PC versions are generally praised for their graphical fidelity and attention to detail—COGconnected and PC Invasion calling them “visually stunning”—the Switch port faces criticism for its performance compromises, such as resolution downgrades and frame rate drops. Despite these issues, many reviewers acknowledge the game’s nostalgic charm and the effort to preserve its identity while updating it for modern platforms. RPGamer and PlayStation Country note that the visuals, while not perfect, are “solid looking” and “fantastic at times,” while We Got This Covered and Multiplayer.it celebrate the “astounding” overhaul and seamless world design. The mixed reception underscores that while Kiwami is a worthwhile upgrade, it falls short of the technical and artistic heights of later Yakuza entries, reflecting a balance between reverence for the original and the constraints of its remake.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami's sound design and music shine with authentic Japanese voice acting and immersive atmosphere, elevating its world-building. While praised for ambient details and a stronger soundtrack, critics call it sparse, repetitive, and lacking the original's dynamic flair, making it a solid but flawed audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment towards the sound design and music of Yakuza Kiwami is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the authenticity and quality of the Japanese voice acting and the immersive audio experience. Several reviews, such as those from Destructoid and Jeuxvideo.com, praise the complete re-recording of dialogues by the original voice actors, which enhances the game's atmosphere and emotional impact. GameSpot and Trusted Reviews also commend the Japanese voice acting, noting how it brings a sense of realism and depth to the cutscenes. Additionally, RPGamer and RPG Site appreciate the ambient music and authentic background noises that contribute to the game's immersive world. Pocket Tactics specifically praises the karaoke minigame music, while PC Invasion and CGMagazine highlight the soundtrack as a significant improvement over the original, adding to the game's overall atmosphere. However, some critics express concerns about the limitations in the music and sound design. New Game Network describes the soundtrack as sparse, with ambient sounds dominating the experience, and notes that battle music and cutscene pieces are present but not particularly impactful. Game Revolution mentions that while some remixes are energetic, they miss the original mix of funk and rock that defined the earlier entries. Xbox Achievements points out that the music is decent but suffers from repetition, and TierraGamer finds the music satisfactory but not exceptional. App Trigger also notes that the soundtrack is not as varied as it could be, and Vandal mentions some audio issues in the version analyzed. These critiques suggest that while the music is functional and contributes to the game's tone, it may not fully satisfy fans looking for a more dynamic or diverse audio experience. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music of Yakuza Kiwami significantly enhance the game's experience. The return of the original Japanese voice acting is consistently praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, with Critical Hits, Nintendo Life, and DualShockers all noting the excellence of the Japanese dub. While some reviewers point out the lack of variety or repetition in the soundtrack, the majority agree that the audio quality, ambient sounds, and music contribute positively to the game's immersion and atmosphere. Vandal and GameStar also highlight improvements in sound design, and Multiplayer.it and Digital Chumps emphasize how the music creates a perfect setting for gameplay, making the experience "epically enthralling." Overall, the audio elements are seen as a strong component of the game, even if they aren't without their flaws.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami’s voice acting is hailed as a masterclass in authenticity and emotional depth, with standout performances and remastered Japanese audio elevating its storytelling. However, the absence of English dubs and localized options alienates non-Japanese players, sparking a sharp debate between cultural fidelity and accessibility—proving the game’s heart is in its roots, but its reach is limited by them.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Yakuza Kiwami is widely praised for its quality, authenticity, and emotional depth. Critics like Destructoid and GameStar highlight Takaya Kuroda’s performance as Kiryu as a standout, noting how it adds nuance to the character and enhances storytelling. Eurogamer Italy and Everyeye.it commend the remastered Japanese audio, emphasizing its contribution to the game’s polished presentation and immersive narrative. 3DJuegos and Gameblog.fr specifically mention that new performances and re-recorded dialogue bring added depth to characters and their interactions, while Impulsegamer and XGN praise the original cast’s work for matching the tone and delivering "superbly acted" sequences. The use of Japanese voice acting with English subtitles is frequently lauded for preserving the game’s cultural authenticity, as noted by CGMagazine, COGconnected, and IGN Italia, with many reviewers appreciating how it strengthens the game’s setting and character portrayals. However, several critics point out the absence of English voice options as a significant drawback. CGMagazine and GamePro Germany note that the game retains Japanese dialogue without an English dub, which may alienate non-Japanese speakers. Hobby Consolas and Vandal express concerns about limited accessibility due to the lack of translations, while PC Invasion laments the loss of the original English cast, including Mark Hamill, which they felt was a missed opportunity. Additionally, Vandal (PC) mentions technical issues like missing audio files in some versions, and Multiplayer.it (Switch) and Nintenduo highlight the absence of localized options in certain languages, such as Italian or Spanish. These critiques underscore a tension between preserving the game’s original Japanese essence and the need for broader accessibility, with some reviewers suggesting that the lack of English voice acting could hinder engagement for Western audiences. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Yakuza Kiwami’s voice acting is a strong, well-executed element that elevates its narrative and character immersion. While most reviews emphasize the authenticity and improved performances by the original Japanese cast—Game Informer and GameOver.gr specifically call out the "commendable effort" in localization—there is a shared acknowledgment of its limitations for players unfamiliar with Japanese. GameSpot and Polygon note that the hyper-emotional cutscenes, despite the language barrier, resonate effectively, and The Overpowered Noobs and Worth Playing highlight how the Japanese audio with subtitles enhances the game’s feel. Though the lack of English dubbing and localized options is a recurring negative, the majority of critics agree that the voice acting remains a key strength, balancing cultural fidelity with cinematic quality. This duality reflects a broader appreciation for the series’ identity, even as it raises questions about inclusivity for non-Japanese audiences.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami's tech performance is hit-and-miss: PC/PS4 shine with smooth, optimized play, while Nintendo Switch (original) stumbles with lag, pop-in, and frame drops—Switch 2 improves but still has hiccups. Xbox One's PS2 roots show, yet the game runs surprisingly well overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Yakuza Kiwami varies across platforms, with several positives noted. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Digital Chumps and Nintendo Life praised its smooth gameplay, minimal loading times, and lack of lag or graphical stutters, while GamersRD highlighted its ability to run at 4K and 60fps on the Switch 2. The PS4 version received commendations for stable frame rates, with Vandal and GameStar noting efficient engine performance and smooth transitions, and IGN Italia acknowledging its aging well and graphical improvements. The PC port was lauded for optimization, with PC Gamer and SpazioGames emphasizing high FPS, customizable settings, and seamless performance, while Ragequit.gr and GameOver.gr pointed to flawless frame rates and 60fps support. Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub also noted the Xbox One version’s smoothness, despite its origins as a 2005 PS2 title, and Loot Level Chill confirmed the Switch 2’s stability, with Nintenderos and Siliconera acknowledging minor but manageable performance hiccups. However, technical issues were more prominent on certain platforms. The Nintendo Switch version faced criticism for unstable framerates and pop-in in dense areas, as highlighted by CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded, who called it "almost unplayable" at times. RPG Site and Nintenderos also noted frame rate drops during combat, while Noisy Pixel reported blurriness in docked mode. On PS4, Gamer.no and New Game Network criticized long loading times and pop-in, respectively, and RPGamer mentioned texture problems and objects getting stuck in walls. The PC port had minor issues, such as The Overpowered Noobs pointing to awkward camera control with keyboard/mouse and Vandal noting audio bugs, though these were generally overshadowed by its overall polish. The Nintendo Switch 2 saw minor frame drops during transitions (Vandal) and outdated animations (GamersRD), while TheXboxHub acknowledged technical limitations from its PS2 roots. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Yakuza Kiwami delivers a technically solid experience, with PC and PS4 versions excelling in optimization and stability, though not without minor flaws. The Nintendo Switch versions, particularly the original, struggled with performance inconsistencies, but the Switch 2 saw significant improvements, as noted by GamersRD and Loot Level Chill. While Digitally Downloaded and CGMagazine were harsher on the Switch, others like Siliconera and Nintendo Life found it functional and stable. The PS4’s performance was mixed, with Vandal and GameStar praising its smoothness, but Gamer.no and RPGamer pointing to lingering technical issues. PC’s port, though not perfect, was widely considered the most optimized, with PC Invasion and PC Gamer highlighting its adaptability to different hardware. Despite platform-specific challenges, the game’s technical execution was generally seen as a success, with many reviewers acknowledging its ability to run smoothly despite its age.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami dazzles with 70+ side stories, unpredictable Majima battles, and addictive mini-games, but repetitive mechanics and outdated design drag it down. A nostalgic treat for fans, yet its formulaic nature and frustrating combat make it a mixed bag—worth it for completionists, not a standout replay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Yakuza Kiwami leans positively, with many critics highlighting its robust side content and mini-games as key draws. Reviewers like GameSpot and PCGamesN emphasize the game’s diverse activities, such as darts, Mahjong, and RC car races, which offer hours of engagement beyond the main story. PlayStation LifeStyle and 3DJuegos note the “Majima Everywhere” system, which introduces recurring combat challenges with the beloved character Goro Majima, adding a layer of unpredictability and incentive to revisit the game. Additionally, Trusted Reviews and RPGamer praise the substories and optional quests, which deliver quirky, memorable experiences and reward players with substantial XP, while PlayStation Universe points to the game’s “over 70 side stories” and free DLC as factors that “burst with value.” These elements collectively suggest that Kiwami provides a rich, if not groundbreaking, experience for completionists and fans of the series’ signature variety. However, several critics express concerns about the game’s repetitiveness and lack of innovation, which could diminish its replay appeal. RPG Fan and Gamereactor UK argue that the shallow gameplay mechanics and absence of new content make it less compelling for returning players, while Metro GameCentral criticizes the outdated feel and excessive backtracking. Destructoid and Multiplayer.it note that the side missions, though numerous, often feel simplistic or derivative compared to Yakuza 0, and AusGamers highlights frustrating combat mechanics that might deter players from revisiting. GameCritics and CGMagazine also point to the slow-paced unlocking of combat moves and the unpredictability of Majima encounters as potential drawbacks. These critiques suggest that while the game is content-heavy, its formulaic nature and technical shortcomings could limit its longevity for some players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Yakuza Kiwami offers a decent level of replayability, particularly for newcomers or those nostalgic for the series’ earlier entries. Nintendo Life and Nintendo Insider acknowledge its role as an accessible entry point, while Eurogamer Italy and RPG Site appreciate the abundance of side activities that “showcase high replay value.” However, GamePro Germany and Generación Xbox caution that the game’s charm lies more in its charm than its depth, with the latter noting potential playtimes exceeding 50 hours. The mixed reception reflects a balance between the game’s nostalgic appeal and its limitations compared to later entries. While Digitally Downloaded and We Got This Covered acknowledge the combat’s functional yet frustrating nature, many agree that the combination of substories, mini-games, and the Majima system creates a compelling package for those willing to explore its world, even if it falls short of the series’ more recent innovations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment toward Yakuza Kiwami is largely positive, with critics praising its faithful remastering and revitalization of the original 2005 title. Many highlight its engaging story, improved combat system, and the charm of its open-world design, which retains the essence of Kamurocho’s vibrant, chaotic atmosphere. For instance, PlayStation Country commends the game’s ability to blend serious crime drama with absurd humor, calling it a "great addition to the series" with "so much to do." RPG Site and PC Invasion emphasize its value as a budget-friendly entry point, noting that the narrative and gameplay offer a compelling experience for newcomers, while We Got This Covered describes it as an "absolute steal" at $29.99, lauding its "rich narrative experience" and "visually appealing world." The combat, though not revolutionary, is consistently noted as "fun and brutal" (Metro GameCentral) and "enjoyably violent" (PlayStation Country), while the story’s emotional depth and character development are celebrated by GameStar and RPG Fan. These reviews collectively frame Yakuza Kiwami as a polished, nostalgic update that successfully modernizes the original without losing its core appeal. However, several critics point to notable flaws that temper its overall impact. Technical limitations, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, are a recurring concern, with Digitally Downloaded calling it a "solid but imperfect port" and Tech-Gaming noting that the Switch version "is not the best way to experience it" due to performance issues. Metro GameCentral and GameSpew criticize the game’s repetitive backtracking and less refined gameplay elements, such as the "Majima Everywhere system" and a lack of side content compared to later entries like Yakuza 0. Worth Playing argues it feels like a "step backward" despite being "a fun game," while Gamer.no describes it as a "rushed project" that fails to fully capture the original’s spirit. Additionally, some reviewers, like GameCritics and Multiplayer.it, suggest it’s overshadowed by Yakuza Zero, with its weaker characters and less varied gameplay making it a less compelling standalone experience. These critiques underscore that while the remaster is commendable, it struggles with aging mechanics and technical compromises. Despite these shortcomings, the consensus among critics leans toward recommending Yakuza Kiwami as a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of the series or those seeking an accessible entry point. PlaySense and Digital Chumps argue it’s "worth the price" for both newcomers and veterans, while Ragequit.gr and RPG Gamer acknowledge its strengths in story and combat but caution it’s better approached as a follow-up to Yakuza 0 rather than an introduction. The game’s modernization efforts, including improved graphics and localization (Vandal), are seen as significant upgrades, though not without trade-offs. While some critics, like Video Chums, feel it lacks the depth of later titles, others, such as Jeuxvideo.com, call it a "masterful remake" that sets a high bar for future remasters. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a balanced view: Yakuza Kiwami is a nostalgic, well-crafted experience that, while not flawless, remains a vital piece of the franchise’s legacy and a recommended purchase for those willing to overlook its imperfections.

TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami is a nostalgic, polished remaster with a compelling story, improved combat, and a vibrant open world—perfect for fans and newcomers. But it's held back by aging mechanics, technical issues on Switch, and a lack of side content, making it a flawed but still worthwhile entry in the series.

MONSTER

Reviews

197 reviews found

100

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

Dec 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is a well-crafted remake that successfully combines engaging storytelling with fun gameplay, making it a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Aug 22, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is a must-buy kind of game if you enjoyed Yakuza 0, but either haven’t played Yakuza since the original release, or at all. It's an engaging, always entertaining ride with a solid plot and fantastic controls.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox One

May 5, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami successfully updates the original while retaining its core elements, appealing to both new players and fans of the franchise.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 4

Aug 21, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is an essential entry in the series, offering a mix of serious and silly elements, engaging combat mechanics, improved visuals, and great value for both newcomers and veterans.

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 4

Aug 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is praised as a truly magnificent game that feels current and offers a rich narrative experience, engaging gameplay, and a visually appealing world, contributing to the overall strength of the Yakuza series.

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Jeuxvideo.com

Feb 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is a masterful remake that successfully revitalizes the original game with modern graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and a compelling narrative, setting a high standard for future remakes.

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DualShockers

PlayStation 4

Aug 21, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is a fantastic remake with a rich story, enjoyable gameplay, beautiful environments, and likable characters, making it a must-have at an affordable price.

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Everyeye.it

PlayStation 4

Aug 21, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is a masterfully crafted remake that balances nostalgia with modern enhancements, making it a must-play for both newcomers and fans of the series. It successfully revitalizes the original while adding depth and clarity to the story.

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Trusted Reviews

PlayStation 4

Aug 21, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Yakuza Kiwami is a dazzling remake of an underappreciated classic, improving upon its source material in so many important ways. At times it can feel dated, but that doesn’t stop Kiwami from proving Yakuza is once again one of the best things on PS4, and perhaps any other platform.

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NZGamer

PlayStation 4

Sep 21, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kiwami proves itself the better version of one of the most endearing stories the reviewer has experienced. The game is a small, confined space filled with characteristic detail, instead of vast generic spaces with little of note in-between. The game is recommended for those who have no experience with the Yakuza series and for those who have played the previous games.