Games / Action

Yakuza Kiwami

Nov 13, 2025Action · AdventureM

MC83

Metacritic

4.1

User rating

782 ratings

Great Value

$0.36 per quality point

$29.99eShop

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Prices checked 14 Oct 2026

Trailers

Screenshots

Our take

Yakuza Kiwami on Switch 2 is a strong port that captures the grit and drama of Kiryu's journey. Priced reasonably at $41.99, it offers a solid blend of storytelling and action. However, if you're expecting cutting-edge graphics, you might be disappointed - it's not a visual powerhouse. Still, for those who appreciate a meaty narrative and well-crafted combat, it’s worth picking up.

Yakuza Kiwami excels in storytelling, diving deep into themes of loyalty and redemption. The combat is fast-paced and satisfying, with a fluidity that keeps fights engaging, although it occasionally suffers from frame drops during frantic skirmishes. The Switch 2 version retains the series' signature quirky side activities, with plenty to do in and out of the main plot. However, the visuals don't push the hardware to its limits, which is a letdown for anyone expecting a graphical overhaul. Still, the vibrant settings and intricately designed characters shine through despite the technical limitations. Compared to Yakuza 0, Kiwami feels like a familiar yet refined experience, as it builds upon its predecessor's solid foundation. Fans of the series will appreciate the return of beloved mechanics and characters, but newcomers may find the narrative's complexity daunting.

Pros

Engaging story with emotional depth and strong character development
Diverse combat mechanics featuring four styles: Brawler, Rush, Beast, and Heat actions
Rich side activities, from karaoke to arcade games, enhancing the overall experience

Cons

Graphics are a step behind current standards, lacking some polish
Load times can be lengthy, especially when entering new areas
Occasional frame drops during intense fight scenes

You control Kazuma Kiryu as he navigates the dangerous streets of Kamurocho. Gameplay involves a mix of intense brawling, exploration, and side quests. Combat mechanics include switching between styles, allowing for strategic play against various foes. Additional activities like managing a host club or playing mini-games provide plenty of distractions.

On Switch 2

On Switch 2, Yakuza Kiwami runs well in both docked and handheld modes, maintaining a stable frame rate during most moments. Controls are responsive, with a layout that suits the action-oriented gameplay. The portability factor is a plus, allowing you to enjoy Kiryu's adventures on the go, although expect some longer load times than you might experience on more powerful consoles.

Who it's for

This game is for players who enjoy deep narratives and character-driven stories, especially those invested in the Yakuza franchise. If you're looking for flashy graphics or a casual experience, you might want to skip this one.

About

“Kiwami” means extreme. 1995, Kamurocho… Kazuma Kiryu, the Dragon of Dojima, takes the fall for the murder of a crime boss to protect his sworn brother, Akira Nishikiyama, and his childhood friend, Yumi. 2005… Akira Nishikiyama has become a changed man. Yumi is nowhere to be found. Ten billion yen has gone missing from the Tojo Clan's coffers, putting the organization on the brink of civil war. And Kazuma Kiryu is released from prison to a world he no longer recognizes. With enhanced gameplay, an expanded cinematic story, the return of the battle styles from Yakuza 0, more nightlife spots, and re-recorded audio by the series cast, Yakuza Kiwami is the ultimate and most “extreme” version of the original vision of the series, now optimised for PC with 4K resolutions, uncapped framerates, customisable controls and ultra-widescreen support.