The Yakuza series is well-loved within the fandom, and even if the same assets are used again and again, fans do not mind it that much because each sequel always manages to deliver a solid experience. So naturally, the fandom has been waiting for Yakuza Kiwami 3 and its DLC Dark Tides, which is going to be a new addition alongside the remake.
The reviews for the game are now out, and they do not paint a very positive picture. Yakuza Kiwami 3 has managed to secure a 75 score on Metacritic, which is pretty good but not very impressive. Also, the score is based on 43 reviews, so while more reviews can come out, the score will likely remain the same.
The following are some of the review scores from various media outlets:
- Gamespot – 60
- IGN – 70
- TechRadar Gaming – 70
- DualShockers – 75
- Wcftech – 79
- GamingBolt – 80
- GamesRadar+ – 80
- PlayStation Universe – 90
A Modernized Classic With Noticeable Upgrades
The game is a remake, so not much innovation was expected. The overall experience is pretty good and could be a must-have for someone who did not play the original game because of the outdated mechanics.
The combat and gameplay mechanics have been improved a lot. So it is a great remake to experience the goodness of Kiwami 3 again.
Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is a solid action-packed package that impressed me with its cathartic, overhauled combat. However, some underwhelming side content, graphical quirks, and questionable narrative changes stop this entry from hitting the heights of other titles in this phenomenal franchise.
-TechRadar Gaming
However, one of the main criticisms is that a lot of the content from the original game has been removed and replaced by Dark Tides. While Dark Tides itself is an excellent addition, this removal of content has not been overlooked by the critics.
Content Cuts And Narrative Changes Raise Concerns
While I have already mentioned that the main criticism is the removal of content, there are some other things to note here.
There have been some questionable narrative changes, according to the reviews, and that seems to have affected the rating. Other than that, the side content is quite underwhelming, and there are quite a few visual inconsistencies.
After hitting the credits to both portions of the game, I felt like the Yakuza series is currently at an impasse. Unnecessary story changes, questionable and problematic casting choices, visual homogenization, and uneven content changes plague the latest remake.
-GameSpot
These issues are the main reasons why the review score is not higher for this remake. Still, a 75 score is by no means bad, and the developers can use the criticism to improve future remakes, sequels, or spin-offs.
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Obaid Ur Rehman is a lifelong gaming enthusiast with a deep passion for writing about video games. While he enjoys all genres, he specializes in RPGs and Soulslike titles. After tackling some of the toughest bosses, he often unwinds with a cozy game to relax. Outside of gaming, Obaid enjoys watching anime, bingeing TV series, or staying active at the gym.
