The review of Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties highlights its ambitious remake efforts but notes that the new side story falls short due to its brevity.
The review discusses Yakuza Kiwami 3, the latest remake in the Yakuza franchise, characterizing it as the most ambitious yet. The developers, RGG Studio, have not only remade Yakuza 3 but have also added a new side story titled Dark Ties, which adds additional content for fans. While Kiwami 3 embraces the madness of the series and aims to expand on the joyful chaos of the original game, the new side story does not resonate well with reviewers who found it lacking in length and depth.
The review contrasts the overall excitement generated by Yakuza Kiwami 3 with the shortcomings of Dark Ties, which feels underdeveloped in comparison to the main title. Despite this, the package is seen as generous for longtime fans of the series who have been waiting for new content since 2017, giving them more of what they love while experimenting with new storytelling.
Ultimately, the dual nature of this remake encapsulates the series' evolving identity—while Kiwami 3 is celebrated for its bold ambition and expanding narrative scope, the letdown of the Dark Ties story serves as a reminder that not every addition can hit the mark, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing innovation with the expectations of a dedicated fan base.
