Please note this article contains relatively minor spoilers for Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
When Yakuza 6: The Song of Life was billed as the final chapter in series protagonist Kazuma Kiryu's story, more cynical fans would have probably told you that he'd no doubt return at some point. But even with that perspective, it was a bit of a surprise to see Kiryu make a comeback so soon, as he popped up in the very next game, Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Some players have felt as though his almost immediate revival was a bit forced, with developer RGG Studio reluctant to let such a popular character leave the franchise for good.
But according to series producer Hiroyuki Sakamoto, Kiryu's return was always part of the plan. In an interview with IGN, Sakamoto claims that as far back as Yakuza 6, the team had decided that Kaz would play the role of a second protagonist in the upcoming Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (otherwise known as Like a Dragon 8 in Japan).
"Initially when we said goodbye to [Kiryu], we were still planning to have him appear as a double protagonist for 8," Sakamoto reveals. "So, this has been kind of a long time something that we've been thinking about."
Now, obviously, a story-heavy series such as Like a Dragon will need to be planned out well in advance, so there's no real reason to raise an eyebrow at Sakamoto's comment. That said, we do distinctly remember Yakuza 6's marketing angled towards it being a big Kiryu-focused finale. And to be fair, in a lot of ways, it was — but with Kiryu once again reprising a starring role in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, it's hard not to feel as though the man deserved a bit more of a rest.
Being the hypocrites we are, though, we're still hyped for Gaiden, which releases in November. But how do you feel about Kiryu's role in the latest Like a Dragon games? Do you think his return really was planned? Let your fists do the talking in the comments section below.
[source ign.com]
Comments 15
This is why he should've died in 6, instead of the cheap fakeout. It would've been way more powerful.
I thought he would come back but in a role similar to like a dragon but more down the line and for the reason he has in Gaiden. As you said he needed more time away. Honestly Id just like to see Akiyama come back properly. Now him and Ichiban would be a blast
It really doesn’t bother me. I love the character. What they should be doing rather than killing his character off is basing games around other characters such as Majima etc
@BusyOlf They could have had a whole game with majima after he got reinstated as a yakuza and have him building up his family and rackets but instead all you get is four chapters
@BusyOlf If Gaiden is succesfull I think RGG might make more Gaiden games. The potential is there for characters like Saejima, Daigo, Majima, Akiyama etc. Doesn't nescessarily have to tie in to the next entry like this one does, but there are a lot of untold stories for the "side" characters. Basically like something they did with Y0. And I really hope we get those games. I can't get enough of the characters of the first few games
More Kiryu is fine, for me he is the better protagonist. I know Majima is returning. but hope to see more old characters as well, like Shun Akiyama.
The thing I liked about Like a Dragon was they ironed out the little niggles I had with Previous Titles,I am looking forward to more of Kiryu San.
I trust those writers.
@Lavalera Give me a game based on Akiyama, damn it. I remember how much of a breath of fresh air that dude was when I played through 4 and 5. Such a great character.
The franchise has never been more popular. I’m perfectly happy with Kiryu sticking around because he’s one of the best characters in gaming. Ichiban is great too so having both is perfect.
6 was the end of his shared story raising Haruka. 7 onwards is a "new" Kiryu
@Powerplay94 That's why I'm hoping that hair he has in 8 is just a wig.
@Deityjester they do him a disservice by offering his card for the battle mini games.
Only reason I'm fine with kiryu still being here is maybe he can get a happy ending this time. That is if sega actually does end his story like they were supposed to
Ah... whatever. We all love Kiryu.
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