Although the Yakuza games created by Sega have a long history, long plot and a dedicated following, the internet has exploded once again to rejoice in the Western release of the new Yakuza Kiwami 2 game on PS4. Specifically, this game is the remake of Yakuza 2 with additions of course.
The main plot of Yakuza Kiwami 2 however, focuses on how Kiryu is called back in to action after he had left the Tojo Clan. The fifth chairman is dead and now he must find a replacement before a war breaks out with their enemy the Omi Alliance. In true Yakuza fashion, the plot will be deep. Also, this is one of the longest plots in a game.
This time around the developers used the Dragon Engine which has made the game look absolutely fantastic. We might as well be living right there in Kamurocho with how realistic the game feels now. As a fun note to add as well, the addition of the scenario “The Truth of Goro Majima,” we can jump deeper in to why Majima left his clan and how he became a legitimate construction company owner. Technically this plot takes place between Yakuza and Yakuza 2 and we are ready for it.
More characters were added in this release but also brought back many favorites as well. There are five new characters straight from New Japan Pro Wrestling that will have a place in the plot. Since this is a remaster with added elements, the game has elements of Yakuza 6 in it, which can cause a bit of confusion. The main story line however seems to still remain in tact.
Brutal combat has always been a part of the Yakuza series and this remake expanded on the fight with new charge attacks, the ability to stockpile weapons and even new ally heat actions. Not only did they add all of this, some fans will be happy to know as well that Kiryu’s mentor has made a return as well. For the Majima fans, his new charge attacks are quite the sight to see.
Per the usual as well, the Yakuza Kiwami 2 release does deal with mature content and absolute absurdity at times. So, depending on your background with the series, this is on the high scale of using discretion around the younger audiences. There is blood, violence, language and hopefully another chicken.
As of right now, Yakuza Kiwami 2 looks and feels fantastic. The addition of the new characters and plot points is exciting and there is more than enough content to keep going through for a long time. Even as a remake, this should be the version you go to.
9/10
Available on: PS4
