Like a Dragon: Yakuza Live-Action Series Teaser Drops

Sega and Prime Video recently offered fans a sneak peek at their upcoming live-action adaptation of the Yakuza series, Like a Dragon: Yakuza. This article delves into the show's details and highlights comments from RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza Premieres October 24th

A Fresh Interpretation of Kazuma Kiryu

In a Sega interview at SDCC, Yokoyama stated that Takeuchi and Kaku delivered performances significantly different from the game's original portrayal. He viewed this divergence as a strength, acknowledging the game's perfected Kiryu while celebrating the show's fresh perspective on both characters.

The teaser briefly showcased iconic locations like the Coliseum in Underground Purgatory and a confrontation between Kiryu and Futoshi Shimano.

The teaser description promises a portrayal of "fierce yet passionate gangsters and the inhabitants of Kamurochō," a fictional district inspired by Kabukichō in Shinjuku. Loosely based on the first game, the series explores the lives of Kazuma Kiryu and his childhood friends, offering a side of Kiryu previously unseen in the games.

Yokoyama's Perspective on the Adaptation

Addressing initial fan concerns about the adaptation's tone, Yokoyama reassured viewers that the Prime Video series captures the essence of the original.

In his SDCC interview, Yokoyama expressed his desire to avoid mere imitation, aiming instead for a fresh and engaging experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. He praised the production team's ability to create their own interpretation while remaining faithful to the source material.

Yokoyama hinted at a surprising twist at the end of the first episode, promising a captivating experience for all viewers.

While the teaser offers only a glimpse, Like a Dragon: Yakuza premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on October 24th, with the first three episodes released simultaneously. The remaining three episodes will follow on November 1st.