The Yakuza franchise continues its ambitious remake project. Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties launched on February 12, 2026 across PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2 — and it’s actually two games in one package.
Two Games, One Package
This release bundles two distinct experiences:
Yakuza Kiwami 3 is a full “extreme remake” of the original Yakuza 3 (2009), starring Kazuma Kiryu in Okinawa. This isn’t a remaster — it’s been rebuilt from the ground up with modern graphics, revamped combat systems, and quality-of-life improvements. GamesRadar describes it as featuring “the meatiest brawling this crime thriller’s tackled in years” combined with “its warmest story.”
Dark Ties is an entirely new, never-before-seen standalone story following antagonist Yoshitaka Mine from Yakuza 3. It serves as Mine’s origin story, chronicling how he lost his startup company, entered the yakuza underworld, and met Daigo Dojima. The gameplay features a distinct boxing-based combat system and includes an exclusive Underground Fight Club mode with “Survival Hell” — a dungeon-crawling gauntlet.
Pricing and Editions
- Standard Edition — $59.99: Both Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties included
- Deluxe Edition (Digital) — $74.99: Adds the Legendary Outfit Pack, companion customization packs, flip phone customization, and a Legendary BGM CD set
How Critics Are Receiving It
Reviews have been mixed — something unusual for the franchise. Metacritic sits around 75, with OpenCritic at a similar range. The Kiwami 3 portion is drawing praise for its brawling and warm narrative, but Dark Ties has proven divisive. GamesRadar noted the new chapter’s “overly edgy” tone left them cold, while Nintendo Life suggested “maybe it’s time to take a break.” Still, fans of the series’ signature blend of heartfelt drama and over-the-top action will find plenty to enjoy here.
If you’re new to the franchise, note that Yakuza Kiwami 3 is best experienced after playing Yakuza 0, Kiwami, and Kiwami 2 — though the game does include story summaries to catch you up.
