Yakuza
News, coverage and analysis tracking Yakuza across the outlets.
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Stranger Than Heaven director says RGG 'intentionally' forgot about Yakuza to create 'something new' — 'Every single aspect of it, we started thinking about it from scratch, just to suit the style of Stranger Than Heaven'
Mikinobu Abe, director of Stranger Than Heaven, stated that RGG Studio intentionally distanced the game from its Yakuza and Like a Dragon franchises to create a distinct experience. The team started development from scratch, rethinking every aspect from maps and UI to narrative and cutscenes, to suit the unique style of Stranger Than Heaven. The game is set to launch on January 15, 2027, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Stranger Than Heaven oozes even more style than the Yakuza series
Stranger Than Heaven offers a stylish and engaging experience with a strong narrative focus, set across multiple time periods from 1915 to 1965. While its combat mechanics may require some adjustment, the game boasts a unique aesthetic, engaging side activities like theater management and underground fighting, and a compelling protagonist.
PAX Aus 2026 wrap-up: SEGA’s gaming goodness
SEGA showcased several highly anticipated titles at PAX Aus 2026, including playable demos for Alien Isolation 2 and Persona 4 Revival, alongside a preview of the Yakuza prequel Stranger Than Heaven. Alien Isolation 2 is confirmed for Switch 2, while Persona 4 Revival is a full remake of Persona 4 Golden. Stranger Than Heaven, developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, offers a historical action-adventure beat 'em up experience.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Persona, Godzilla, Hello Kitty, and Bayonetta join the increasingly bonkers roadmap for Sonic…
Sega has revealed an extensive Year Two DLC roadmap for Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, set to release throughout 2027. The content includes collaborations with Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Persona, Godzilla, Hello Kitty, Bayonetta, and Evangelion, alongside new tracks and karts inspired by Sega's history.
7 Retro Games That Brought Casino Vibes to Classic Gaming
This article explores seven retro video games from the 1980s and 1990s that incorporated casino themes and mechanics. Games like Casino for Atari 2600, Leisure Suit Larry, Dragon Warrior IV, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Vegas Stakes, Pokémon Red and Blue, and Final Fantasy VII are highlighted for their unique implementations of gambling elements, from blackjack and slot machines to elaborate amusement parks.
Turns out, a lot of Sega's biggest fans don't play its videogames: 'In some cases, their engagement is…
Sega president Shuji Utsumi noted that a significant portion of fans for series like Yakuza engage with the IP through merchandise and media, rather than playing the games themselves. This highlights the growing importance of transmedia strategies in building brand interest and fan engagement, even among non-gamers.
Sega says it makes more money from people who don’t play their games
Sega president Shuji Utsumi stated that the company generates significant revenue from individuals who engage with its franchises through adaptations and livestreams rather than playing the games directly. This transmedia strategy, including movies and merchandise, is seen as a successful way to expand IP reach and engagement, sometimes even surpassing that of actual players.
Lanterns writer Damon Lindelof says adaptations shouldn't just copy the source material: "Shouldn’t we…
TV writer Damon Lindelof believes adaptations should evolve the source material rather than strictly adhering to it, stating that creative risk-taking is essential. He argues that the goal of an adaptation should be to create something authentically emotional and relatable, not just to please existing fans. Lindelof's own work, including The Leftovers and Watchmen, has often diverged significantly from its original novels and comics.
You Don’t Have To Like Golden Axe To Enjoy The New Animated Series’ Trailer
Sega has released the first trailer for a new animated series based on its classic Golden Axe beat 'em up franchise. The series, co-created by Mike McMahan and Joe Chandler, features voice acting from Lisa Gilroy, Liam McIntyre, and Matthew Rhys, and aims to bring the retro game back into the spotlight with a blend of action and meta-commentary.
Award-Winning 2021 PS5 Action Game Under $10 on PlayStation Store
The PlayStation 5 action-adventure game Judgment is currently available for under $10 on the PlayStation Store, marking a 75% discount. This limited-time offer, published by Sega, is part of a deal that concludes on August 27. The PS5 version includes all previously released DLC and enhanced graphics.
Building a Competitive Pokemon TCG Deck, Digital Third Spaces, and Musings on Yakuza
This article discusses strategies for building competitive decks in the Pokemon Trading Card Game, explores the concept of digital third spaces, and offers musings on the Yakuza series. It aims to provide insights into various aspects of gaming culture and strategy.
Somewhere between QWOP and Tekken, Stranger Than Heaven has one of the most interesting combat systems I've played in some time
Stranger Than Heaven features a unique and interesting combat system that maps left and right limbs to controller bumpers and triggers, allowing for complex offensive and defensive maneuvers. While initially difficult to grasp, the system rewards players who adapt to its rhythmic, timing-based dueling, offering a fresh take on the genre. The game is a distant prequel to the Like a Dragon series, developed by Ryu Ga Gokotu Studio.
Virtua Fighter Crossroads isn't just a fighting game revival, it's a "sandbox RPG" that channels Watchmen and Detroit: Become Human
Virtua Fighter Crossroads, developed by RGG Studio, is a narrative-driven sandbox RPG that moves away from traditional fighting game mechanics. Producer Riichiro Yamada stated that the game is inspired by Watchmen and Detroit: Become Human, emphasizing player choice and a grounded, believable world. While it incorporates Virtua Fighter's combat, the focus is on a robust story mode and side content, aiming for a different experience than the Yakuza series.
SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance sarà disponibile su Nintendo Switch 2 il 24 settembre
SEGA and Lizardcube announced that SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance will be released on Nintendo Switch 2 on September 24, 2026. The game will be available digitally and physically, with pre-orders now open. A free update will also be available for existing Nintendo Switch owners, enhancing the game's resolution and detail. The Deluxe Editions will include a DLC featuring SEGA villains like Dr. Eggman, Goro Majima, and Death Adder.
SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance Launches on Nintendo Switch 2 on Sept. 24
SEGA and Lizardcube announced that the 2D action platformer SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance will launch on Nintendo Switch 2 on September 24, 2026. The game follows Joe Musashi on a quest for vengeance and will feature multiple paths and satisfying gameplay. A Deluxe Edition will include the SEGA Villains Stage DLC, pitting Joe against Dr. Eggman, Goro Majima, and Death Adder.
SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance coming to Switch 2 on September 24
SEGA and Lizardcube announced that SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance will be released on Nintendo Switch 2 on September 24. The game, which previously launched on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC in August 2025, will also receive a physical Deluxe Edition for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2. This edition includes the base game, the "SEGA Villains Stage" DLC, character cards, an art book, in-game items, and more.
Stranger Than Heaven's Combat Will Challenge You Like A Souls Game | IGN Preview
Stranger Than Heaven features a slower, more calculated combat system that differentiates it from the Yakuza series. While currently a bit rough, the combat shows significant potential for challenging players in a Souls-like manner.
Japanese gamers vote on most influential game and series, favorite character, favorite developer, more
Famitsu magazine's 40th-anniversary survey of over 5,000 Japanese gamers revealed Nintendo as the favorite developer and Mario as the favorite character. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was highly recommended, while Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest series dominated influence and sequel requests. Masahiro Sakurai was named favorite creator.
I Was Not Expecting Stranger Than Heaven’s Brutal Combat
The author expresses surprise at the brutal combat system in Stranger Than Heaven, noting it is unlike the Yakuza series. This distinct combat approach is a positive aspect for the reviewer.
Stranger than Heaven hands-on: Harder than Yakuza?
Stranger than Heaven, the latest title from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, features a completely new fighting system set in mid-twentieth century Japan. The article suggests the game may be more challenging than the Yakuza series.