Yakuza Kiwami 3 reframes Yakuza 3’s slower chapters and adds Dark Ties

Polygon had the chance to play several sections of the upcoming Yakuza Kiwami 3 and its Dark Ties prequel-expansion, which is set to launch on Feb. 12.

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has added new Okinawa-focused content that leans into Kiryu's quieter domestic life to give previously meandering segments more purpose. Additions seen in the preview include strolling a fish market, helping a local bar build a reputation, a Bad Boy Dragon side mode, a celebrity substory with a chance to ask the guest to sing Baka Mitai, and expanded orphanage minigames such as homework, sewing and raising an in-game "Daddy Rank." The preview noted that the mundanity is often intentional, positioning Okinawa as Kiryu's life as he wants it.

Dark Ties lets players control Tojo Clan figure Yoshitaka Mine in a quest-based Kanda Damage Control mode that combines investigation in Kamurocho with coliseum battles similar to Pirate Yakuza. The preview highlighted Mine's combo-heavy combat and a burst mode that alters skill inputs to simulate "fighting by instinct," and said the slice shown gives more insight into Mine's character. The main plot is presumed to remain intact, but it remains unclear how essential Dark Ties will be to the full experience; the preview called the changes promising and said there will be plenty of drama when the story turns serious in Okinawa.

Key Topics

Culture, Dark Ties, Sega, Yoshitaka Mine, Kiryu, Okinawa