Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has officially pulled back the curtain on its next major project, revealing that Yakuza Kiwami 3 and a brand-new prequel spin-off, Dark Ties, will launch as a single package on February 12, 2026. The announcement, made during the RGG Direct 2025 livestream, also included exciting new details about combat, story, and the surprising protagonist of the new title.
Yakuza Kiwami 3: More Than a Remake
Set to release over 15 years after the original, Yakuza Kiwami 3 is being rebuilt from the ground up. Producer Ryosuke Horii described it as "a brand new title, vastly evolved from the original," developed with the studio's latest technology.This ambitious remake will feature two distinct fighting styles for protagonist Kazuma Kiryu. Players can utilize the familiar Dragon of the Dojima: Kiwami style, alongside a completely new Okinawan martial arts-inspired style called Ryukyu. This new stance is a nod to the game's significant time spent on the shores of Okinawa.
The narrative is also receiving a major expansion. In addition to re-recorded voice lines and overhauled animations, the studio is adding new cutscenes to flesh out key character motivations. "Whether it's Kiryu and his pal Rikiya Shimabukuro, or enemies like Mine, Kanda, and Hamazaki, we've further detailed their thoughts and actions," Horii stated. He also teased that some scenes have been "changed drastically with different developments and outcomes," promising surprises for even veteran players.
Dark Ties: A New Legacy Begins
The biggest surprise of the reveal was Dark Ties, an action-adventure prequel that tells the story of Yoshitaka Mine. Fans of the series will recognize Mine as the formidable antagonist and chairman of the Hakuho Clan from the original Yakuza 3. For the first time, players will step into his shoes as the protagonist, witnessing his journey as he joins the yakuza to "pursue unwavering bonds."Dark Ties will explore the "gritty reality of human relationships in the criminal underworld" in the time leading up to the events of Yakuza 3. Chief Producer Hiroyuki Sakamoto confirmed Mine's story will feature a unique "refined but cool" combat style centered around boxing, giving him a distinct feel from other series protagonists.
The dual release is timed to celebrate the series' upcoming 20th anniversary on December 8, 2025. With a full-fledged remake and a brand-new prequel story bundled together, RGG Studio is delivering a massive experience for fans old and new. Pre-orders for the Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties bundle are now available.
