Ryu Ga Gotoku’s Bold Gamble: Will Yakuza Kiwami 3 Introduce Turn-Based Combat?

In a move that could either be a stroke of creative genius or a profound misstep, a recent leak has all but confirmed the existence of Yakuza Kiwami 3. While a remake of the 2009 PlayStation 3 title has been a long-held dream for fans, a new and radical theory is gaining traction within the community: that this remake could abandon the series’ signature beat-’em-up combat in favor of the turn-based system introduced in Yakuza: Like a Dragon. This bold shift, if implemented, would not only buck the remake trend but also signal a new, unified direction for the entire Like a Dragon franchise.

The rumor of Yakuza Kiwami 3 gained significant momentum after eagle-eyed fans discovered a listing for the unannounced game on developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s official website. Although the listing was quickly removed, screenshots have been circulating, all but confirming that a full-scale remake is on the way. The anticipation is high, as the original Yakuza 3, while a pivotal story in the saga of Kazuma Kiryu and his Okinawa orphanage, is widely considered to have a clunky combat system, notorious for its overly defensive enemies and a lack of fluidity compared to later entries. A Kiwami remake would be the perfect opportunity to address these issues and modernize the experience.

The Case for a Turn-Based Combat System

The most compelling argument for a turn-based system in Yakuza Kiwami 3 is that it would create a more consistent identity for the franchise moving forward. Since the shift to turn-based battles in Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the mainline series, now officially renamed Like a Dragon, has moved away from its brawler roots. The recent spin-off title, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, with its return to the old combat system, felt like a deliberate choice to provide fans with one last taste of the classic gameplay. However, going forward, the series seems to be committed to the new format. Introducing a turn-based system in Kiwami 3 would unify the entire franchise and make it clear to new players that turn-based combat is the new normal. For fans who started with Yakuza: Like a Dragon, it would also provide a more consistent experience if they decide to go back and play the older titles. The combat in Yakuza 3, with its focus on blocking and its less fluid movements, is arguably the most in need of a full-scale overhaul. The turn-based system would not only solve these issues but also allow the developers to add a wealth of new features, like new party members, jobs, and a deeper customization system, all of which were hallmarks of Yakuza: Like a Dragon. This would transform a good game with a flawed combat system into a modern classic.

The Potential Backlash

While a turn-based system could be a smart move, it also carries a significant risk of alienating a large portion of the fanbase. Many long-time fans of the Yakuza series are deeply attached to the chaotic, over-the-top, real-time brawling combat that defined the franchise for so long. The idea of losing that core gameplay loop, especially in a remake of a classic title, could be met with intense backlash. The Kiwami games, after all, are remakes designed to bring the original experience up to modern standards, not fundamentally change the game’s identity. Furthermore, the plot of Yakuza 3, with Kiryu’s more personal, grounded story, may not be a perfect fit for the often-zany and over-the-top nature of the turn-based system. Some fans are already voicing their frustration on forums, with many arguing that the combat should be updated with the more fluid style of Yakuza 0 or Yakuza Kiwami 2, not completely replaced.

What to Expect at the RGG Summit

With the RGG Summit scheduled for this week, all eyes will be on Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio. The developers have an opportunity to confirm or deny the rumors and set the record straight. The most likely scenario is that a Yakuza Kiwami 3 is officially announced, but whether the combat will be turn-based remains a closely guarded secret. The decision will have a profound impact on the future of the series and will be a clear indication of how far the developers are willing to go to unify the franchise under a single, new identity. The success of the Like a Dragon name and the new combat system is undeniable, but whether that success can be applied retroactively to a fan-favorite classic remains to be seen. The bold move could be a sign of a creative team that is confident in its new direction, or a frustrating choice that alienates the very fans it is trying to please. The answer will be revealed soon, and the gaming world will be watching to see which direction the new Yakuza takes.