Yakuza Kiwami Brings the Acclaimed Series To Nintendo Switch

In the traditional “one more thing” of Nintendo Directs, it was announced that Yakuza Kiwami would be coming to the Nintendo Switch.

Announced during the Aug 24th, 2024, Nintendo Indie Direct / Partner Showcase , Yakuza Kiwami will bring its unique form of open-world and intricate combat to Nintendo’s hybrid handheld system. What seemed even more surprising is the game will be released on Oct 24th, 2024.

Yakuza Kiwami was originally released on the PlayStation 4 in 2017 and has since been ported to the Xbox One and PC. The game was a remake of the original, which was released on the PlayStation 2 in 2006, featuring enhanced graphics and expanded gameplay. As Kazuma Kiryu, players will take the fall for a murder they didn’t commit, only to emerge from prison ten years later with clans on the brink of war.

The series was thought to be the spiritual successor to the Shenume series. Set against the bustling red-light district in modern-day Japan, the players can experience the critically acclaimed features , such as action-packed fighting, romance, and a plethora of silly side experiences. Ranging from singing karaoke to pocket circuit racing, there’s no shortage of what players can get up to in this game.

Yakuza Kiwami also introduced the gameplay system called “Majima Everywhere,” where rival character Goro Majima will appear frequently and oftentimes randomly to challenge Kiryu in various events—from combats to side challenges. Defeating Goro would grant players various bonuses in combat.

Yakuza Kiwami on Nintendo Switch is the latest in a banner year for the franchise, which saw its eighth mainline entry, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth , launch earlier this year. Fans can look forward to the Amazon Original live-action series Like a Dragon: Yakuza when it launches on Prime Video on October 24, 2024.