Like a Dragon: Yakuza Live-Action Series Teaser Drops

Sega and Prime Video recently offered fans a sneak peek at their upcoming live-action adaptation of the popular Yakuza game series, now titled Like a Dragon: Yakuza. This article delves into the details revealed and the director's perspective.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza Premieres October 24th

A Fresh Interpretation of Kazuma Kiryu

At San Diego Comic-Con, Sega and Amazon unveiled the first teaser for the live-action series. Ryoma Takeuchi portrays the iconic Kazuma Kiryu, and Kento Kaku plays the antagonist, Akira Nishikiyama. RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama highlighted the actors' unique approach to the characters.

In a Sega interview at SDCC, Yokoyama stated that Takeuchi and Kaku's portrayals are significantly different from the game's originals, emphasizing this as a positive aspect. He acknowledged the game's perfected portrayal of Kiryu but welcomed the fresh perspective offered by the series.

The teaser showcased iconic locations like the Coliseum in Underground Purgatory and a glimpse of Kiryu's confrontation with Futoshi Shimano.

The teaser description promises a depiction of "fierce yet passionate gangsters and the inhabitants of Kamurochō," a fictional district inspired by Kabukichō. Loosely based on the first game, the series explores the lives of Kazuma Kiryu and his childhood friends, offering a perspective on Kiryu previously unseen in the games.

Yokoyama's Perspective on the Adaptation

Addressing initial fan concerns about the adaptation's tone, Yokoyama assured fans that the series captures the essence of the original. He emphasized his desire to avoid mere imitation, aiming for a fresh experience even for longtime fans.

In his SDCC interview, Yokoyama expressed his surprise and delight at the final product, praising the actors' ability to create their own interpretations while remaining true to the source material.

He teased a significant surprise at the end of the first episode, promising a reaction of excitement from even seasoned fans.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on October 24th, with the first three episodes released simultaneously. The remaining three episodes will follow on November 1st.