Yakuza Wars: A Bold New Direction for the Franchise in Mobile Gaming
Polina Hans
10 Sep 2024
akuza Wars represents a shift in focus for the popular franchise, as it curtails expectations for a major console title. Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, renowned for their acclaimed Yakuza/Like a Dragon series, recently celebrated a major success with the 2024 release of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. However, their ambitions extend beyond this release, with Yakuza Kiwami launching on Nintendo Switch next month, marking a historical moment as the series debuts on Nintendo platforms. Despite the excitement, there was curiosity surrounding an unnamed project that prompted speculation about whether it would feature Ichiban Kasuga or revisit the legacy of Kiryu Kazuma.
However, it seems that the new project is neither a continuation nor a spin-off as many had anticipated. Yakuza Wars has been announced on Facebook, revealing that it is a mobile game situated within the strategy genre. According to the promotion, it is Sega's inaugural authorized mobile game, touted as a unique addition to the gangster-themed mobile game landscape, promising innovative strategic gameplay. Players can engage in battles alongside iconic characters like Kiryu Kazuma, Kasuga Ichiban, and Majima Goro, allowing them to craft their own epic narratives within the underworld milieu.
The mobile gaming sector now accounts for over 90% of the industry's revenue, making it a strategic focus for companies aiming to maximize their established franchises' potential. Despite this, numerous gamers on traditional platforms may feel let down by this announcement. Nonetheless, there may still be good news on the horizon. The Tokyo Game Show 2024 is just weeks away, and the event could serve as the ideal stage for showcasing an exciting new Yakuza/Like a Dragon advancement.
Are you interested in exploring Yakuza Wars?