In anticipation of the upcoming Like a Dragon: Yakuza TV series on Amazon Prime, which is set to debut in October, SEGA has strategically launched a series of starter packs on the PlayStation Store. These packs are designed to help new players dive into the rich and intricate world of the Yakuza video game series.
The development of these starter packs aligns with the expansion of the Yakuza franchise into new media. Hiroyuki Sakamoto, the chief producer for the series, emphasized the thought behind this initiative. Sakamoto explained that with the Yakuza and Like a Dragon series gaining new audiences through various media, it was crucial to offer clear starting points for newcomers. He expressed his hope that these thoughtfully curated packs, available at a value price, would encourage new fans to experience the games as they were meant to be played, from the beginning and in order of release.
The Yakuza Series Starter Pack, priced at £24.99 / $29.99, includes Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2. These games are modern remasters of the first two entries in the series and provide a comprehensive introduction to the saga of Kazuma Kiryu. Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2 are updated versions of the classic PlayStation 2 games, rebuilt on PlayStation 4 with enhanced graphics and additional content.
For fans interested in the series' latest protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, the Like a Dragon Series Starter Pack is also available. Priced at £64.99 / $79.99, this pack includes Yakuza: Like a Dragon and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. These games cover Kasuga’s journey in detail and offer a fresh perspective within the Yakuza universe, including a shift towards turn-based combat which differentiates it from the earlier, action-focused entries.
Interestingly, despite its pivotal role in the series as a prequel, Yakuza 0 is notably absent from the Yakuza Series Starter Pack. This choice might seem peculiar to longtime fans since Yakuza 0 is often recommended as the ideal entry point into the series due to its background setup and character development.
For truly dedicated fans or completists, SEGA has also introduced the Yakuza Complete Series bundle, which encompasses all mainline entries from Yakuza 0 through Yakuza 6: The Song of Life. This comprehensive package is available for £94.99 / $109.99 and offers a deep dive into the world of Yakuza in its entirety.
The launch of these bundles comes at an opportune time as the Like a Dragon: Yakuza live-action adaptation prepares to make its debut on Amazon Prime. The series will loosely follow the events of the first game, giving viewers a glimpse into the drama and action that have made the franchise so beloved.
Fans of the series and potential newcomers now have several tailored options to explore the Yakuza universe, making it easier than ever to get caught up on the exploits of Kazuma Kiryu and Ichiban Kasuga. Whether you're drawn to the drama, the intense combat, or the deep storylines, SEGA's new PlayStation Store offerings provide a convenient point of entry into this critically acclaimed series.
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