Director’s Advice on Remaking ‘Yakuza Kiwami 3’: Respect, Don’t Rely on Originals
Ryosuke Horii, the producer and director of Yakuza Kiwami 3, recently shared insights into the development of this highly anticipated remake. This project is regarded as one of the most extensive revivals in the Yakuza series, which originally saw its installment, Yakuza 3, released in 2009. Horii emphasized the importance of balancing respect for the original while not overly relying on it during the creative process.
Respecting the Original
In his interview, Horii stated, “The most difficult part of developing a remake is deciding how much to carry over from the original.” He acknowledged that improper handling could result in a product of mediocre quality. To combat this, his team focused on modernizing and enhancing elements to create a fresh experience without losing the essence of the original game.
Innovations in Yakuza Kiwami 3
- Introduction of the Dark Ties campaign.
- Enhanced gameplay mechanics and storytelling.
- Youngest development team in RGG’s history to avoid bias.
Horii identified Yakuza 3 as needing significant improvement, citing it as “a game with many rough edges.” He asserted that confronting the reality of the game’s shortcomings is essential for crafting a successful remake. This honesty allows the team to move beyond nostalgia and focus on delivering an ambitious and contemporary gaming experience.
Combat and Gameplay Changes
Reflecting on the original game, Horii described the combat as “extremely difficult,” highlighting the challenges players faced, including tough enemy behavior and limited combo options for the protagonist, Kiryu. He expressed confidence that Yakuza Kiwami 3 would rectify these issues, promising a more enjoyable and accessible gameplay experience.
As anticipation builds for Yakuza Kiwami 3, fans are eager to see how these insights translate into the final product. Horii’s commitment to respecting the original while focusing on innovation sets the stage for an exciting release.
