Originally released in 2009 on PS3, Yakuza 3 was a turning point for the saga, introducing a peaceful Kiryu, running an orphanage in Okinawa. But its aging combat system and its lengths detracted from the experience. With Kiwami 3, the Ryu Ga Gotoku studio erases the original flaws by relying on the Dragon Engine for a total technical overhaul. The main story remains intact, enriched by new cutscenes and a warm atmosphere, notably through the management of the Morning Glory orphanage.
Kiryu-style family life: mini-games and orphanage management
The new system Daddy Rank highlights Kiryu’s daily activities: homework help, cooking, gardening or sewing — all in funny and touching mini-games. “Like a dragon…sewing!” » exclaims Kiryu in one of the hilarious dialogues. The player is rewarded with currency and points, used to upgrade the orphanage, purchase items, or gain local notoriety. This deeply immersive piece of gameplay offers a humanist parenthesis in a world of violence.
A redesigned and spectacular combat system
If the atmosphere is tender at the orphanage, the clashes are more violent than ever. Kiryu can switch between two styles: classic Dragon of Dojima and the new style Ryukyufocused on weapons like nunchucks. Triggering the mode Dragon Heat via R2 allows you to unleash spectacular combos. The whole thing gains in fluidity and readability, making the bosses more intense, strategic and less frustrating than in the original.
Dark Ties: the light on Yoshitaka Mine
Great new feature of this edition, the DLC Dark Ties stages Yoshitaka Minemajor character in Yakuza 3. Colder and more brutal than Kiryu, his gameplay is inspired by boxing and offers a very distinct style, notably via the mechanics Shackled Heart. This additional content also allows you to develop the character of Kanda through the system Damage Controldespite controversial themes. Finally, the mode Hell’s Arena offers wave battles mixing strategy and risk, with loot at stake. A great addition, intense and addictive.