By Discover a fresh narrative in Dark Ties
Sega isn’t hitting the brakes anytime soon regarding the Yakuza franchise, and with this understanding, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has today revealed that it’s bringing Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties to the Switch 2 along with several other platforms next year.
During RGG Summit 2025, the skilled studio announced that this specific installment will be released on 12th February 2026, with digital pre-orders commencing today and physical version pre-orders to follow in the “coming days”.
As noted in the official game synopsis, the third installment initially debuted on the PlayStation 3 in 2009, and it has now been “reinvented with state-of-the-art graphics and contemporary technology”. It also features the new narrative, Dark Ties. Here are a few more insights regarding what you can anticipate:
First appearing on PlayStation 3 in 2009, Yakuza 3 has been reimagined with state-of-the-art graphics and contemporary technology. This upgraded version brings Okinawa alive, showcasing more thrilling battles, additional cutscenes that add depth to the narrative, and minigames filled with replay value. Kiryu is back in the fray, persistently battling to safeguard those he cherishes.
This game also includes Dark Ties, featuring Yoshitaka Mine, Kiryu’s rival. Follow Mine on his path from being the founder of a venture company to becoming a full-fledged yakuza member. After losing everything, he embarks on a quest to form a bond that would fill the emptiness within him. Kazuma Kiryu and Yoshitaka Mine live in contrasting ways.
Accompany them as their journeys intertwine, placing both of their destinies at stake.
This recent Yakuza Kiwami announcement follows the unveiling of Yakuza Kiwami on the Switch eShop last October.
Subsequently, the Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut has launched on Switch 2, with Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2 set to release for Switch 2 this November. It has also been confirmed that Yakuza Kiwami 1 & 2 for Switch 2 are getting individual physical releases, although they will be Game-Key Cards.
Are you looking forward to this one? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Liam is a journalist and reviewer for Hookshot Media. He has been covering games for over 15 years and is a lifelong admirer of many legendary video game characters.