Description: Yakuza: Kiwami is a remake of the original Yakuza game, released in 2005, which has been completely revamped with improved graphics and gameplay. This title, developed by Sega, offers players an immersive experience in the world of Japanese organized crime, focusing on the life of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza member. Kiwami not only updates the graphics to modern standards but also introduces new gameplay mechanics, side missions, and a more fluid and dynamic combat system. The narrative remains one of the game’s strong points, with a story rich in drama, betrayal, and redemption, unfolding in the vibrant district of Kamurocho, a fictional representation of Kabukichō in Tokyo. Additionally, Kiwami includes elements of character customization and development, allowing players to enhance Kiryu’s skills as they progress through the story. This remake has been well-received by both series fans and new players, solidifying the Yakuza franchise as a staple in the action-adventure video game genre. The combination of its deep narrative, memorable characters, and an open world full of side activities makes it a unique and engaging experience for video game enthusiasts.
History: Yakuza: Kiwami was released in August 2016 as part of the celebration of the tenth anniversary of the Yakuza series. This remake was developed to provide new players with an accessible entry point into Kazuma Kiryu’s story while modernizing the original game for long-time fans. The Yakuza series began in 2005 and has evolved over the years, expanding to multiple platforms and generating several spin-offs and sequels.
Uses: Yakuza: Kiwami is primarily used as a form of entertainment in the video game realm, providing players with a rich narrative experience and an open world to explore. Additionally, it serves as a tool for learning about Japanese culture and urban life in Tokyo, through its detailed representation of city life and social interactions within a virtual environment.
Examples: An example of the use of Yakuza: Kiwami is in video game events where the narrative and character development in video games are discussed. It is also used in game design studies to analyze how gameplay mechanics have been modernized in remakes.
