Like a Dragon: Yakuza Live-Action Series Teaser Drops

Sega and Prime Video recently treated fans to a first look at their upcoming live-action adaptation of the Yakuza series, Like a Dragon: Yakuza. This article delves into the show's details and highlights comments from RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza Premieres October 24th

A Fresh Interpretation of Kazuma Kiryu

In a Sega interview at SDCC, Yokoyama stated that Takeuchi (known for ‘Kamen Rider Drive’) and Kaku offer strikingly different interpretations of their characters compared to the game. He highlighted this as a positive aspect, appreciating the fresh perspective offered by the show, even acknowledging the game's perfected portrayal of Kiryu.

The teaser briefly showcases iconic locations like the Coliseum in Underground Purgatory and a confrontation between Kiryu and Futoshi Shimano.

The teaser's description promises a portrayal of "fierce yet passionate gangsters" and the lives of those in Kamurochō, a fictional district mirroring Tokyo's Kabukichō. Loosely based on the first game, the series explores Kiryu and his childhood friends, promising to reveal aspects of Kiryu's story previously unexplored in the games.

Yokoyama's Insights on the Adaptation

Addressing initial fan concerns about the adaptation's potential to miss the game's lighter moments, Yokoyama reassured viewers that the series captures the original's essence. He expressed a desire to avoid mere imitation, aiming instead for a fresh, engaging experience for both longtime fans and newcomers.

In his SDCC interview, Yokoyama shared his amazement at the production, stating that the adaptation's quality even surprised him. He praised the creators for making the setting their own while remaining faithful to the source material.

He further teased a significant surprise at the end of the first episode, promising a reaction of excitement from viewers.

While the teaser offers limited glimpses, the wait is short. Like a Dragon: Yakuza premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on October 24th, with the first three episodes released simultaneously. The remaining three episodes will follow on November 1st.