Sega and Prime Video recently treated fans to a sneak peek of their upcoming Yakuza live-action series. Dive in to discover more about the show and the insights shared by RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama.
Like a Dragon: Yakuza – October 24th Premiere
A Fresh Perspective on Kazuma Kiryu
At San Diego Comic-Con, Sega and Amazon unveiled the first look at the live-action adaptation, *Like a Dragon: Yakuza*, on July 26th.The teaser showcased Ryoma Takeuchi (known for Kamen Rider Drive) as the legendary Kazuma Kiryu, and Kento Kaku as the series’ main antagonist, Akira Nishikiyama. RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama highlighted the actors' unique interpretations of these iconic characters.
"Their portrayals are completely different from the game," Yokoyama revealed in a Sega interview at SDCC. "But that's precisely what makes it so compelling." While acknowledging the game's perfected Kiryu, Yokoyama praised the series for offering a fresh take on both characters.
The teaser offered fleeting glimpses of the iconic Coliseum in Underground Purgatory and Kiryu's confrontation with Futoshi Shimano.
The teaser's description promises a portrayal of "fierce yet passionate gangsters and the inhabitants of Kamurochō," a fictional district inspired by Kabukichō in Shinjuku.
Loosely based on the first game, the series follows Kazuma Kiryu and his childhood friends, unveiling aspects of Kiryu's story previously unexplored in the games.
Masayoshi Yokoyama’s Insights
Addressing initial fan concerns about the series' tone, Masayoshi Yokoyama assured viewers that the Prime Video series captures "the essence" of the original.
In his SDCC interview, Yokoyama explained his primary goal: "to avoid mere imitation. I wanted viewers to experience Like a Dragon as if it were their first encounter."
"Honestly, it was so good, I was envious," Yokoyama continued. "We created the setting 20 years ago, but they’ve made it their own… without sacrificing the original story."
After viewing the show, he stated that "For newcomers, it's a new world. For fans, it's a guaranteed smile-inducing experience." He even hinted at a major surprise at the end of the first episode that left him genuinely excited.
While the teaser provides only a brief glimpse, fans won't have to wait long. Like a Dragon: Yakuza premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on October 24th, with the first three episodes available simultaneously. The remaining three episodes will be released on November 1st.
