Yakuza Live-Action Drama Unveils Teaser

Sega and Prime Video recently treated fans to a sneak peek of their upcoming live-action Yakuza adaptation. This article delves into the show's details and highlights comments from RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza – October 24th Premiere

A Fresh Interpretation of Kazuma Kiryu

At San Diego Comic-Con on July 26th, Sega and Amazon unveiled the first teaser for the live-action adaptation, *Like a Dragon: Yakuza*.

The teaser showcased Ryoma Takeuchi (known for Kamen Rider Drive) as the iconic Kazuma Kiryu and Kento Kaku as the antagonist, Akira Nishikiyama. Director Masayoshi Yokoyama emphasized that Takeuchi and Kaku offer unique portrayals.

"Their interpretations are vastly different from the game," Yokoyama stated in a Sega interview at SDCC. "And that's precisely what makes it exciting." He acknowledged the game's perfected Kiryu but welcomed the fresh perspective the series provides.

The teaser showcased glimpses of the Underground Purgatory Coliseum and Kiryu's confrontation with Futoshi Shimano.

The teaser description promises a portrayal of "fierce yet passionate gangsters and residents of Kamurochō," a fictional district inspired by Kabukichō.

Loosely based on the first game, the series explores Kiryu and his childhood friends, revealing aspects of Kiryu's life "previously unexplored in the games."

Sega's Interview with Masayoshi Yokoyama

Addressing initial fan concerns about the adaptation's tone, Yokoyama reassured fans that the Prime Video series captures "the essence of the original."

In his SDCC interview, Yokoyama explained his primary concern was avoiding mere imitation. He aimed for viewers to experience Like a Dragon as a fresh encounter.

"Honestly, it was so good, I was envious," Yokoyama continued. "They made the 20-year-old setting their own, without sacrificing the original story."

He teased a major surprise at the end of the first episode, claiming it elicited a strong reaction from him.

While the teaser offers limited footage, fans won't wait long. 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.