The Yakuza series has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly with the release of Yakuza: Like a Dragon in 2020. However, one platform was missing out on the action – the Nintendo Switch. That has changed with the arrival of Yakuza Kiwami, a remake of the original Yakuza game that brings it up to modern standards. The game follows Kazuma Kiryu, a yakuza lieutenant who takes the fall for a crime he didn’t commit and must navigate the treacherous world of the yakuza upon his release from prison.
Yakuza Kiwami boasts a revamped combat system that mirrors the one used in Yakuza 0, which is a significant improvement over the original game. The game’s narrative is engaging and sets the stage for the series as a whole. While the game itself has been widely discussed and praised, the focus here is on the quality of the Nintendo Switch port.
In terms of performance, the Switch port delivers a mostly stable 30fps experience, though there are occasional hiccups during gameplay. The game looks impressive on the Switch, especially when docked, with image quality reminiscent of the PS4 version. However, there are some minor issues such as aliasing and occasional text size problems, particularly on the Switch Lite.
Despite these drawbacks, Yakuza Kiwami remains a solid entry point for newcomers to the series, especially on the Switch. While some aspects of the game may feel dated, such as the lack of autosaves and occasional combat jankiness, the overall experience is still enjoyable. The Switch port may have its flaws, but it ultimately delivers a satisfying Yakuza experience on the go.
In conclusion, Yakuza Kiwami on the Nintendo Switch is a must-have for fans of the series and a great starting point for newcomers. The game may have its quirks, but its engaging story and revamped combat system make it a worthwhile addition to the Switch library. Despite some technical issues, the overall experience is solid, earning it a score of 8/10. If you’re looking to dive into the world of the yakuza, Yakuza Kiwami is the perfect entry point on the Nintendo Switch.
