Essential Highlights
- The Yakuza: Like a Dragon franchise is set to commemorate its 20th anniversary.
- A new main series installment following Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is expected to be announced shortly.
- Fans anticipate potential game remakes and a new game engine version for exciting announcements in 2025.
The 20th anniversary of the Like a Dragon franchise is just around the corner, and preparations are underway to celebrate this milestone. In a recent video message, Masayoshi Yokoyama, executive producer of the series, provided insights into the planned festivities for this significant occasion.
Launched in 2005 on the PlayStation 2, the series originally appeared in the West under the name Yakuza. Initially, it faced challenges in gaining traction outside Japan. However, the release of Yakuza 0 marked a turning point, making it an accessible entry point for new players and rekindling interest with its compelling narrative and engaging side quests.
As the franchise officially celebrates its 19th anniversary, Yokoyama revealed that fans can look forward to a year filled with various events and announcements. He emphasized the studio’s commitment to expanding their global reach through enhanced merchandising efforts and support structures for the fan community worldwide.
Happy Like a Dragon Day!ðŸ\u0090‰ Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio Director and Executive Producer Masayoshi Yokoyama would like to share a message to commemorate this occasionðŸ\u017d‰ Thank you for continuing to support us and the seriesðŸ™\u008f pic.twitter.com/mCNJ9nGg2s — RGG Studio | Like a Dragon & Yakuza Series (@RGGStudio) December 8, 2024
What Can Fans Anticipate for the 20th Anniversary?
In celebration of the upcoming anniversary, RGG is set to release Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, scheduled for launch in February. Players will return to their favorite character, Goro Majima, as he embarks on an adventure filled with amnesia and chaos amidst the picturesque backdrop of Hawaii. However, details regarding subsequent game releases remain largely under wraps.
An intriguing possibility for fans is the announcement of a main series continuation following Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Reflecting on the franchise’s 10th anniversary, which saw significant developments such as the releases of Yakuza 0 and Yakuza Kiwami, the 20th anniversary may similarly bring news of game remakes. Many players believe a remake of Yakuza 3, originally released on the PS3, is long overdue, especially given the success of previous remakes.
Moreover, the team has hinted at a potential upgrade to the game engine powering the Like a Dragon series, which could enhance future titles. As anticipation builds, fans can expect a wealth of exciting developments as we approach 2025.
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