Yakuza Kiwami 3 has been officially confirmed by Sega’s Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, ending years of speculation about whether the divisive 2009 entry would receive the full remake treatment. The announcement came during the RGG Summit 2025 at Tokyo Game Show, revealing not just the long-awaited remake but also a surprising bonus game.
Complete Dragon Engine Remake Addresses Original Issues
Unlike the 2019 remaster, Yakuza Kiwami 3 represents a complete ground-up remake using RGG Studio’s Dragon Engine. The original Yakuza 3 suffered from pacing issues and defensive combat that earned it the unflattering nickname “Blockuza 3” among fans. This remake promises to address these concerns with overhauled visuals, new cutscenes, re-recorded voice lines, and enhanced gameplay mechanics.
The development team has completely rebuilt Okinawa’s environments to reflect how the region has changed since 2009. Director Masayoshi Yokoyama previously hinted at this possibility in 2024, stating that a remake wasn’t out of the question. The enhanced version will feature brand-new scenes that deliver more depth and emotion to the story, along with additional side experiences.
Dark Ties Spinoff Explores Villain’s Origin Story
Perhaps the most surprising announcement was Yakuza 3 Gaiden: Dark Ties, a completely separate game that comes bundled with Kiwami 3. This spinoff focuses on Yoshitaka Mine, the main antagonist from the original game, showing his transformation from successful startup leader to yakuza member after losing everything.
Dark Ties features boxing-based combat and takes place in Kamurocho as a prequel to Yakuza 3’s events. Players can choose to experience this story either before or after playing the main remake, providing additional context for understanding Mine’s motivations and relationship with Kiryu.
New Gameplay Features and Combat Systems
Yakuza Kiwami 3 introduces several gameplay improvements beyond visual enhancements. The remake includes a weapon-based combat style called Ryukyu Style, inspired by traditional Okinawan martial arts. This addition reflects the game’s setting and provides more variety in combat encounters.
The life simulation aspects have been expanded with new mini-games, cooking mechanics, fishing, bug-catching activities, and karaoke tracks. A new team battle mode allows players to guide customizable motorcycle gangs through strategic conflicts. The remake also includes flip-phone customization options and enhanced side stories focusing on Kiryu’s role as caretaker of the Morning Glory orphanage.
Platform Availability and Release Information
Both Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties will launch together on February 12, 2026, across multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam. The bundle will be priced at $59.99 for the standard edition, with a deluxe version available for $74.99.
| Platform | Release Date | Price |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | February 12, 2026 | $59.99 |
| PlayStation 4 | February 12, 2026 | $59.99 |
| Xbox Series X/S | February 12, 2026 | $59.99 |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | February 12, 2026 | $59.99 |
| PC (Steam) | February 12, 2026 | $59.99 |
Part of Yakuza’s 20th Anniversary Celebration
This announcement marks the second major project in the Yakuza franchise’s 20th anniversary celebration, following Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut. The timing coincides with RGG Studio’s commitment to annual releases in the Like a Dragon series, maintaining momentum after Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth and the upcoming Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.
Pre-orders are already available on Steam, with fans able to add popular character Ichiban Kasuga to the Ryukyu Gal Gang as a bonus. Additional details about both games will be revealed in an upcoming RGG Direct presentation, promising more information about features and content.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Yakuza Kiwami 3 release?
Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties will launch together on February 12, 2026, across all major gaming platforms.
What platforms will Yakuza Kiwami 3 be available on?
The game will be available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam.
Is Dark Ties a separate game or DLC?
Dark Ties is a completely separate game that comes bundled with Yakuza Kiwami 3, featuring its own story, combat system, and protagonist.
How much will Yakuza Kiwami 3 cost?
The standard edition bundle containing both games will cost $59.99, with a deluxe edition available for $74.99.
What improvements does the remake include?
The remake features complete visual overhauls, new cutscenes, enhanced combat including the Ryukyu Style, expanded mini-games, and additional story content.
Do I need to play previous Yakuza games to understand Kiwami 3?
While the game continues Kiryu’s story, each entry includes enough context for newcomers, though playing Yakuza Kiwami 1 and 2 first is recommended for full story appreciation.
Will the remake fix the original game’s pacing issues?
Yes, RGG Studio has specifically addressed the original’s defensive combat and pacing problems through enhanced gameplay mechanics and additional content.
Conclusion
The official confirmation of Yakuza Kiwami 3 represents a significant moment for the franchise, finally giving one of its most controversial entries the complete remake treatment it deserves. With enhanced visuals, improved gameplay mechanics, and the bonus Dark Ties spinoff, this package offers both longtime fans and newcomers an opportunity to experience Kiryu’s Okinawan adventure in its definitive form. The February 2026 release date gives RGG Studio ample time to deliver on their promises while maintaining the series’ reputation for quality storytelling and engaging gameplay.