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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

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

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

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami has received praise for its engaging narrative and character depth, with themes of family, crime, and betrayal resonating throughout Kiryu Kazuma's journey. Critics commend its emotional storytelling and new cutscenes that add context, but some note flaws like pacing issues, plot holes, and rushed developments. Overall, it delivers a compelling story that enhances the original while appealing to modern audiences, despite some narrative inconsistencies.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Yakuza Kiwami has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who appreciate its engaging narrative and rich character development. Many reviewers, such as NZGamer and RPGamer, highlight the compelling themes of family, crime, and betrayal that resonate throughout Kiryu Kazuma's journey. Critics like GamePro Germany and Eurogamer Italy praise the emotional depth and well-crafted characters, noting that the story stands out from typical gangster narratives. The addition of new cutscenes and character moments, as mentioned by Impulsegamer and Everyeye.it, has also been well-received, as they enhance the original plot and provide greater context for character motivations, particularly the relationship between Kiryu and Nishiki. However, several critics have pointed out notable flaws in the storytelling. InsideGamer.nl and GameCritics express concerns about the pacing and depth of the narrative, suggesting that it feels rushed and lacks the nuanced storytelling seen in later Yakuza titles. Critics like Push Square and IGN mention plot holes and abrupt twists that can detract from the overall experience, with IGN specifically noting issues with time jumps and sidetracked narratives that can confuse players. While some reviewers, such as GameSpew, acknowledge that the story is engaging, they also agree that certain plot advancements feel rushed, which can undermine the emotional impact. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Yakuza Kiwami offers a compelling and engaging story that successfully captures the essence of the original game while introducing enhancements for modern audiences. While there are criticisms regarding pacing and depth, the majority of reviewers, including DualShockers and Tech-Gaming, recognize the narrative's strengths in character development and thematic exploration. The blend of melodrama, humor, and serious crime elements creates a unique narrative experience that many players find enjoyable, making Yakuza Kiwami a worthy addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami shines with its deep combat mechanics and entertaining side content, earning praise for its engaging gameplay and the humorous 'Majima Everywhere' system. However, critics flag issues like outdated mechanics, repetitive missions, and pacing problems, suggesting it doesn’t quite live up to Yakuza 0. While fun, it struggles with innovation and can frustrate players with its tedium.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Yakuza Kiwami has received a mix of praise for its engaging combat mechanics and immersive world. Many critics, such as Everyeye.it and Wccftech, highlight the depth of the combat system, which features various fighting styles and RPG elements that allow players to develop Kiryu's abilities. The introduction of the 'Majima Everywhere' system, noted by RPG Site and Destructoid, adds a layer of challenge and humor to encounters, enhancing the overall experience. Critics like Nintendo Insider and Gaming Age appreciate the engaging pacing of battles and the variety of side content, which is considered some of the best in the series. The combat is described as fluid and satisfying, with Game Informer noting the over-the-top animations that contribute to the brawling action's weight. Despite these strengths, several critics express concerns about the gameplay's shortcomings. RPG Fan criticizes the gameplay for being weak and lacking substance, while AusGamers mentions that combat can often feel outdated and frustrating due to limited mechanics. Critics such as Push Square and GameCritics point out issues with tedious story missions and repetitive encounters, particularly with Goro Majima. Additionally, Digital Chumps and Destructoid highlight problems with pacing and boss fights that can feel overly challenging or repetitive, suggesting that the game struggles to innovate compared to its predecessor, Yakuza 0. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Yakuza Kiwami offers a solid and engaging gameplay experience, it is marred by some repetitive elements and pacing issues. Many reviewers appreciate the depth and variety of the combat system, as well as the engaging side content, but they also note that some aspects feel dated or lack the polish seen in newer entries. Critics like New Game Network and Tech-Gaming emphasize the balance between exploration and combat, but the mixed sentiments around mission design and encounter repetition suggest that the game may not fully meet the expectations set by its predecessor.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami impressively revitalizes a classic with significant visual upgrades and smooth 60 FPS gameplay, earning praise for its vibrant Kamurocho environments and detailed character models. However, critics highlight flaws such as outdated storytelling visuals, stiff animations, and inconsistencies across platforms, particularly in the Switch version. While it modernizes the original's charm, many aspects still feel dated, revealing the challenges of remastering older titles. Overall, it’s a commendable effort that succeeds but isn't without shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Yakuza Kiwami have garnered a mixed but generally positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and Multiplayer.it, commend the significant visual upgrades over the original PS2 version, noting that the game utilizes the Yakuza 0 engine to deliver impressive character models and environments. The game runs smoothly at 60 FPS on PS4, which enhances the overall experience, as highlighted by IGN. Critics like GamePro Germany and LaPS4 also praise the detailed environments and character designs, emphasizing the vibrant and lively depiction of Kamurocho, which is further supported by the cinematic quality of the cutscenes. Overall, the remaster has been recognized for its ability to evoke the essence of the original while modernizing the visuals to meet contemporary standards. However, despite the notable improvements, several critics have pointed out various shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Polygon and RPGamer mention that certain visual elements, particularly in storytelling scenes, feel outdated and do not hold up as well as expected. Destructoid and InsideGamer express concerns about the stiffness of animations and the lack of new additions to the city, which can detract from the immersive experience. Critics who played the Nintendo Switch version, such as Siliconera and Nintenduo, noted that while the visuals are acceptable, they lack the polish found on other platforms, with issues like lower-quality textures and occasional pop-ins being prevalent. This sentiment is echoed by CGMagazine, which highlights the noticeable drop in detail in NPC faces compared to essential characters. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Yakuza Kiwami successfully modernizes the visuals of a classic title, but it is not without its flaws. While many reviewers appreciate the graphical overhaul and the vibrant recreation of Kamurocho, there are consistent mentions of aging elements and animation issues that prevent it from being a wholly groundbreaking remaster. Critics like GameSpot and RPG Fan emphasize that while the game captures the lively essence of its setting, some aspects feel like a step back due to the limitations of the original design. Thus, Yakuza Kiwami stands as a commendable effort in visual enhancement, though it ultimately reflects the challenges of remastering a title from an earlier generation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami impresses with top-notch Japanese voice acting and remastered audio, enhancing character depth and atmosphere. Critics commend the diverse soundtrack and improved sound effects, but some note a lack of variety and engagement in the music. Key criticisms include limited language translations impacting accessibility. Overall, while the sound design is strong, it falls short of reaching its full potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music in Yakuza Kiwami have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the authenticity and quality of the voice acting. Many reviewers, such as DualShockers and Hardcore Gamer, praised the re-recorded Japanese voice work, highlighting the contributions of established voice actors which enrich the character design and emotional depth of the narrative. The remastered audio quality has been noted by several critics, including Everyeye.it and Vandal, who pointed out that the improved sound effects and music complement the game's atmosphere effectively. Additionally, the inclusion of a diverse soundtrack, with remixed tracks from the original game, has been appreciated by critics like Game Revolution and Twinfinite, who feel it aligns well with the series' evolution. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the overall sound experience. Some reviewers, such as New Game Network and RPGamer, expressed that while the ambient sounds and background music fit the game's atmosphere, they felt the audio experience could be more engaging, with some tracks lacking variety or impact. Critics like Xbox Achievements and TierraGamer echoed this sentiment, mentioning a degree of repetition in the music. Furthermore, the absence of certain language translations, as highlighted by multiple reviewers, including Eurogamer Italy and Gaming Age, has been pointed out as a limitation that could hinder accessibility for non-Japanese speaking players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Yakuza Kiwami successfully enhances its audio experience through high-quality voice acting and improved sound design, although there are mixed feelings about the soundtrack's variety and engagement level. Many critics, such as Destructoid and CGMagazine, emphasized the importance of the Japanese audio and its contribution to the game's authenticity, while others noted that the music, though fitting, could benefit from greater diversity. The general sentiment is that while the sound design and music are commendable, they do not reach the heights that could elevate the game's overall experience further.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami's voice acting has been widely praised for its significant improvements, particularly Takaya Kuroda's standout portrayal of Kiryu. Critics laud the remastered Japanese performances for enriching character interactions and preserving cultural authenticity, enhancing the game’s emotional depth. However, some reviewers express concerns over the lack of English voice options, which may limit accessibility for non-Japanese speakers and alienate fans of the original English cast. Overall, the voice acting is celebrated as a key strength, despite these accessibility issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Yakuza Kiwami has received widespread acclaim from various critics, highlighting its significant improvements and contributions to the game's overall experience. Many reviewers, such as Destructoid and Game Informer, praised the remastered performances of the original Japanese cast, with Destructoid specifically noting Takaya Kuroda's portrayal of Kiryu as a standout element that adds depth to the characters. Critics from 3DJuegos and Eurogamer Italy emphasized the enhancements made to the voice acting, stating that it enriches character interactions and overall presentation. The decision to retain the original Japanese dialogue, as noted by App Trigger and Digital Chumps, is celebrated for preserving authenticity and cultural integrity, which many agree enhances the narrative's emotional impact. However, the absence of English voice options has been a point of contention among some reviewers. CGMagazine and Vandal noted that while the Japanese voice acting is commendable, the lack of an English dub may limit accessibility for players who are not familiar with the language. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Hobby Consolas echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the Japanese voice work elevates the experience, it may alienate non-Japanese speakers. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from Gamer.no and PC Invasion, pointed out that the absence of the original English cast could be perceived as a loss, especially for fans of the earlier titles who appreciated the English localization. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Yakuza Kiwami is a strong asset that significantly enhances the game's narrative and emotional depth. The remastered performances and the commitment to original Japanese dialogue have been hailed as commendable efforts by Sega, as highlighted by GamePro Germany and Trusted Reviews. While there are valid concerns regarding accessibility due to the lack of English voice options, the majority of critics agree that the voice acting successfully captures the essence of the characters and story, making it a standout feature of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

TLDR: Yakuza Kiwami's technical performance varies widely across platforms. The Nintendo Switch version is praised for its playability but suffers from framerate issues and pop-in, while the PS4 and PC versions shine with stable performance, smooth 60 FPS, and better optimization. Critics agree the PS4 and PC versions offer a superior experience, though minor glitches exist across all platforms. Despite its flaws, the Switch still provides a playable experience, showcasing the challenges of porting older titles to newer systems.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Yakuza Kiwami varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with each having its strengths. On the Nintendo Switch, several critics, including Digital Chumps and Nintendo Life, noted that the game performs well overall, with minimal loading times and a generally stable experience, despite being a port of an older title. The PC version has been praised for its optimization, with many reviewers like PC Gamer and Vandal highlighting its ability to run smoothly at 60 FPS with high settings, providing a visually appealing experience. The PS4 version also received commendations for its technical performance, with multiple critics, including Destructoid and Hardcore Gamer, noting its stable frame rates and seamless transitions, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. However, the negative aspects of Yakuza Kiwami's technical performance cannot be overlooked, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded and CGMagazine pointed out issues with framerate consistency and pop-in, which can detract from the gameplay experience, especially in crowded areas. On the PS4, while generally performing well, some critics like Gamer.no and Trusted Reviews mentioned long loading times and minor technical glitches that can hinder immersion. The PC version, despite its strong performance, also faced some criticism from reviewers like GameWatcher, who reported minor stutters and infrequent crashes, indicating that it is not entirely free from issues. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Yakuza Kiwami delivers a solid experience across all platforms, the Nintendo Switch version struggles more with performance issues compared to the PS4 and PC versions. Critics agree that the PS4 and PC versions exhibit better optimization and technical stability, with the PS4 generally running smoothly at 60 FPS and the PC version offering high resolutions and customizable settings. However, the Switch version, despite its shortcomings, still manages to provide a playable experience, as noted by critics like Gaming Age and Pocket Tactics. The varying degrees of performance across platforms highlight the challenges of adapting a game originally designed for older hardware to newer systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Yakuza Kiwami boasts impressive content, including 70+ side missions and the engaging "Majima Everywhere" system, enhancing replay value for newcomers. However, critics note its repetitive gameplay and lack of depth in side missions, particularly for those familiar with Yakuza 0, leading to mixed sentiments overall. While fun and engaging, it falls short of its predecessors, leaving returning players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

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 is mixed, with many critics acknowledging its strengths. Several reviewers, including Everyeye.it and Hobby Consolas, highlight the game’s substantial amount of content, noting the presence of over 70 side missions and numerous mini-games that provide ample opportunities for exploration and engagement. Critics like PC Invasion and GamePro Germany commend the innovative "Majima Everywhere" system, which adds unpredictability to encounters and encourages players to engage with the game beyond the main storyline. The game’s diverse activities and the inclusion of a New Game Plus mode, as mentioned by Nintendojo, further enhance its replay value, making it a compelling experience for both newcomers and series veterans. However, despite these positives, many critics point out significant drawbacks that limit the game's replay value. RPG Fan and Worth Playing express concerns about the game feeling too familiar, especially for those who have played Yakuza 0, with a lack of engaging side stories and depth in secondary missions. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and Game Informer criticize the repetitive nature of side missions and the overall gameplay mechanics, which can detract from the experience. Additionally, GameSpew notes that while there are extras available, the activity options are less extensive compared to earlier titles in the series, potentially leading to a less satisfying replay experience. In summary, while Yakuza Kiwami offers a wealth of content that can engage players, the consensus among critics is that its replay value is hampered by repetitive gameplay and a lack of depth in side missions. Critics like IGN and GameSpot emphasize that, despite the fun elements and engaging story, the game does not quite measure up to its predecessors in terms of content richness. Ultimately, the game serves as a solid entry point for newcomers but may leave returning players wanting more, as echoed by Game Revolution and Hardcore Gamer, who suggest that while the game is enjoyable, it lacks the depth and innovation present in later entries in the franchise.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Yakuza Kiwami" is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging storytelling, improved graphics, and nostalgic value. Critics like Game Revolution and Digital Chumps highlight the game's successful modernization of the original Yakuza while maintaining its core appeal. The combat system is noted for being more versatile compared to its predecessor, and the inclusion of new content, such as the Majima Everywhere system, adds replay value. Critics from GameSpot and New Game Network commend the game for balancing story, gameplay, and side content effectively, making it a solid entry point for newcomers to the series. The emotional storytelling and character development have also been highlighted, with GameStar noting that the game is a worthwhile experience for fans and newcomers alike. However, several reviewers express concerns about the game's shortcomings, particularly when compared to "Yakuza 0." Push Square and GameCritics mention that "Yakuza Kiwami" feels like a step back in terms of gameplay and character depth, suggesting that newcomers might be better served starting with the prequel. Critics like Slant Magazine and Gamer.no point out that the game can feel restrictive and frustrating, especially for those familiar with the more polished mechanics of later entries. Additionally, some reviewers note that the side content is less abundant than in later games, leading to a sense of repetitiveness that detracts from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics is that while "Yakuza Kiwami" is a commendable remake that offers an engaging experience, it is often overshadowed by its predecessor, "Yakuza 0." Critics like Worth Playing and GameSpew emphasize that the game is enjoyable but lacks the depth and variety found in the newer titles. Despite its flaws, many agree that it remains a worthy addition to the Yakuza series, particularly for fans looking to revisit Kiryu's debut adventure. The game is generally recommended for both newcomers and returning players, with a few caveats regarding its limitations and the context of its release within the franchise.

TL;DR

"Yakuza Kiwami" is a mostly praised remake that modernizes the original with engaging storytelling, improved graphics, and a versatile combat system. Critics commend its balance of story and gameplay, making it accessible for newcomers. However, it faces criticism for lacking depth compared to "Yakuza 0," with some feeling it can be restrictive and repetitive. While it’s a solid addition to the series, its limitations make it less compelling than its predecessor. Recommended for fans, but new players might want to start with "Yakuza 0."

MONSTER

Reviews

194 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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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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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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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.

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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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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PlayStation Country

PlayStation 4

Aug 22, 2017

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

Yakuza Kiwami is a great addition to the series, with so much to do and charm. The game is an open world game with a district to explore, and the main story missions are marked clearly with waypoints, but you're free to run around as you please. The fighting is enjoyably violent, and the game's ability to go from a serious crime drama to silly within moments is a reminder that weird Japanese-ness can be a very good thing. The game has slight issues with the camera controls, but everything else has been brought in line with the modern instalments. If you've never played a Yakuza game before then you can't go wrong with either this or Yakuza 0 and here's hoping Yakuza 2 gets the same treatment.

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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.