Mini Review: Yakuza Kiwami (Switch 2)
By It seems like just yesterday that Yakuza Kiwami finally arrived on the Switch, and yet here we are with an enhanced Switch 2 edition. This latest release is essentially the same title, but Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have utilized the updated console’s specifications for a significantly smoother, sharper experience.
Importantly, the frame rate has seen substantial enhancement here, maintaining a steady 60fps that (at least to my observation) never wavers. This makes roaming Kamurocho all the more pleasurable, and even the most chaotic skirmishes with Yakuza thugs run seamlessly. The resolution has been significantly elevated in both docked and handheld modes, aligning it more closely with launch title Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut. It appears stunning.
And indeed, the game itself remains unchanged, which, in my view, is a positive aspect. There’s genuinely nothing else quite akin to Yakuza, except, perhaps, other Yakuza titles. You have this incredibly gripping storyline at its heart, featuring treacherous criminals, corrupt officials, and loyal companions who fall to darkness, and it really excels at keeping you engrossed with outstanding Japanese voice acting (with no Western dub to be found).
It’s filled with absolutely absurd moments that, in any other context, would certainly detract from the main storyline, but it just operates so effectively here. You can engage in bowling, pool, darts, and even perform karaoke. The contrast between the serious plot and the outrageous side activities is exquisite – it’s just such a video game.
Much of the emphasis is on hand-to-hand combat, and with the mix of various distinctive fighting styles alongside numerous upgrades to acquire throughout, it never truly loses its sharpness. Switching between Rush, Brawler, Beast, and Dragon styles offers ample variation, and if you’re not keen on using your fists, you can always grab a bicycle and ram it into your adversaries’ faces. Fantastic stuff.
Certain elements can be a bit tedious, for sure. Boss encounters sometimes stretch on for a bit too long, while the overall pacing isn’t quite as rewarding as the previously mentioned Yakuza 0. This is essentially a 2016 remake of a 2005 title, and the developers have made significant efforts in the following years to refine the series further and eliminate the features and mechanics that don’t quite function optimally.
Given that, I’d still suggest starting with Yakuza 0 if you’re entirely new to the series, but Kiwami is also a perfectly suitable entry point. It doesn’t feel overly inflated like some of the later installations, yet it still showcases an unmatched sense of style at every turn. Playing Kiwami portably on Switch 2 is a delight, and I truly hope Sega brings the full series to the console. It has found a fantastic home.