Yakuza Kiwami 3 Director on Remaking a 'Rough' Game (2026)

Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of remakes and the challenges they present! Yakuza Kiwami 3, a highly anticipated remake, is set to bring a classic back to life, but with a twist.

The director, Ryosuke Horii, has shared some insightful thoughts on the process, and it's a fascinating tale of respect, evolution, and the delicate balance between nostalgia and progress.

The Challenge of Remaking a Classic

Yakuza Kiwami 3 is more than just a simple remake; it's an ambitious project that aims to enhance and expand upon the original Yakuza 3, a game that many consider a PS3 classic. But as Horii points out, the key to a successful remake lies in finding the right balance between honoring the past and creating something new.

"The most challenging part is deciding how much to carry over from the original," Horii explains. "It's a delicate dance, and if not handled well, the result can be mediocre."

And here's where it gets controversial... Horii believes that the original Yakuza 3, despite its classic status, has "many rough edges" that need to be addressed. He argues that a good remake requires facing these realities head-on.

"You need the courage to fight against idealized memories," he says, encouraging developers to approach remakes with a critical eye.

A Fresh Perspective

But Horii also reveals an interesting strategy to ensure a fresh take on the remake: assembling the youngest development team in RGG's history. By avoiding bias towards the original release, the team aims to bring a new perspective and energy to the project.

Horii's own impressions of the original Yakuza 3 are quite revealing. He describes the combat as "extremely difficult," suggesting that the game's block-heavy enemies and Kiryu's combo system may have aged less gracefully.

"It was a tough game to beat, and I'd say it was the hardest in the series," he adds.

However, Horii is quick to reassure fans that Kiwami 3 will offer a much-improved experience, showcasing the studio's growth and evolution since the original release.

"It's an ambitious game that doesn't dwell on the past," he concludes.

So, what do you think? Are you excited for Yakuza Kiwami 3? How do you feel about the studio's approach to remaking a classic? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Let's discuss and debate the art of remaking games!

Yakuza Kiwami 3 Director on Remaking a 'Rough' Game (2026)
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