SEGA and RGG Studio used this year’s RGG Summit to confirm one of the franchise’s most anticipated projects: Yakuza Kiwami 3. Billed as “an extreme remake,” it reimagines 2009’s Yakuza 3 with modern visuals, overhauled combat, and brand-new story elements. The game is set to launch on February 12, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S.
A Remake with New Depth
Yakuza Kiwami 3 goes far beyond a standard remaster. The bustling streets of Tokyo and Okinawa are rebuilt in stunning detail, with reworked mechanics that bring a new level of intensity to the series’ trademark brawling. Insomniac has expanded the narrative with fresh cutscenes and side activities, adding layers of emotion and immersion to Kazuma Kiryu’s journey as he once again fights to protect those closest to him.
The Dark Ties Story: A Game Within a Game
One of the biggest reveals tied to Yakuza Kiwami 3 is Dark Ties, a standalone story bundled with the remake. This side narrative follows Yoshitaka Mine, a former startup leader who willingly plunged into the criminal underworld after personal tragedy. Players will guide him through a dramatic journey featuring boxing-inspired combat, while exploring themes of loyalty, loss, and redemption.
Classic Yakuza Titles Upgraded for Xbox Series X|S
The Summit also confirmed that several earlier entries will be heading to Xbox Series X|S in enhanced form. Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, Yakuza Kiwami, and Yakuza Kiwami 2 will receive native versions on December 8, 2025. While these ports are not expected to dramatically change the existing Xbox One releases, players can look forward to visual enhancements, improved performance, and additional features included in the Director’s Cut.
Upgrade Path Unclear
One lingering question surrounds upgrade options. SEGA has not confirmed whether the new Series X|S editions will use Smart Delivery or offer free upgrades for existing owners. At present, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut appears unlikely to include a free upgrade path, though further details may emerge closer to release.
A Glimpse of Stranger Than Heaven
The event closed with a short behind-the-scenes teaser for Stranger Than Heaven, RGG Studio’s next original project. While details remain scarce, the brief preview was enough to spark speculation about where the legendary developer will head once its current slate of Yakuza projects is complete.
