Sega’s long-running masterpiece, Yakuza, has taken over Xbox Game Pass in 2020. Earlier this year the subscription-based gaming service added both Yakuza 0 and Yakuza Kiwami to its library. And today – Yakuza Kiwami 2 joins the roster of tremendous titles.
Set in Kamurocho, a fictionalized district in Japan, Yakuza Kiwami 2 is a direct sequel to the original Kiwami. Furthermore, both titles are remakes of the first two Yakuza games. Like the first Kiwami and the proceeding series’ entries, Kiwami 2 follows franchise protagonist Kazuma Kiryu. The game is action-packed with a beat ’em style combat that the series is famous for. Likewise, the title incorporates countless side missions and mini-games. As per usual, the city of Kamurocho feels exceptionally alive.
Despite Yakuza Kiwami 2 being a remake of the earlier PS2 game, this version takes the title to new heights. Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has been Sega’s lead developer on the Yakuza franchise since Yakuza 5. In doing so, the studio has implemented its powerful Dragon Engine in each title since Yakuza 6: The Song of Life. Kiwami 2 takes full advantage of the Dragon Engine and players will feel its impact immediately.
An updated gaming engine isn’t the only benefit. This time around, players will be able to step out of Kazuma Kiryu’s shoes for a bit. Kiwami 2 offers an additional playable campaign centered on character Goro Majima. Fans will likely remember him from the adventures of the recent Yakuza 0. The mini-campaign details Majima’s journey from the ending of Kiwami up to Kiwami 2.
As mentioned, all three of Yakuza 0, Kiwami, and Kiwami 2 will be playable via Xbox Game Pass. The inclusion of this trio on Game Pass this year isn’t a coincidence. With the Xbox Series X and Play Station 5 due out later this year, the coming months will be Microsoft’s final push to attract consumers. The Yakuza franchise offers a diverse entry to the Game Pass library and helps to build the platform’s third-party offerings. More importantly, the inclusion of these titles on the platform will create buzz for the franchise’s upcoming release Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
Like a Dragon is set to release this November and will be an Xbox Series X launch title.