Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties: Mine Spin-Off Officially Revealed

Last Updated: October 26, 2025

In a stunning announcement that has electrified the gaming community, SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have officially pulled back the curtain on their next major project: a two-in-one experience titled *Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties*. Revealed during the RGG Summit 2025 livestream and followed by an in-depth gameplay showcase at the Tokyo Game Show, this ambitious project not only remakes the beloved third chapter of Kazuma Kiryu's saga but also includes a brand-new standalone story focusing on the original game's complex antagonist, Yoshitaka Mine.

The reveal solidifies years of fan anticipation, continuing RGG Studio's celebrated "Kiwami" initiative of rebuilding classic titles for modern audiences. The comprehensive 10-minute gameplay demonstration for *Kiwami 3* provided a deep dive into a revitalized Okinawa, while the surprise announcement of *Dark Ties* promises an unprecedented level of narrative expansion for the series.

A Modernized Return to Okinawa: Kiwami 3 Gameplay

The gameplay showcase immediately immersed viewers in the sun-drenched streets of Ryukyu and the neon glow of Kamurocho, demonstrating a profound technical overhaul. Built on a modern engine, *Kiwami 3*'s combat has been completely revitalized, shedding the rigidity of its PlayStation 3 origins. The brawling appears fluid and impactful, bringing Kiryu's street fighting prowess in line with the high standards set by recent titles. Fans noted the seamless execution of classic techniques, all rendered with a modern sense of weight and responsiveness.

Beyond the visceral combat, RGG Studio reaffirmed its commitment to the series' beloved slice-of-life elements. The demonstration featured a segment of the karaoke minigame, boasting updated visuals and hinting at an expanded song list for Kiryu's heartfelt performances. Fan-favorite activities, from managing the Morning Glory Orphanage to enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, were also showcased, each meticulously recreated with the attention to detail that defines the franchise. This blend of brutal action and heartwarming downtime appears to be at the core of the *Kiwami 3* experience.

The Unveiling of 'Dark Ties': A New Perspective

The RGG Summit's biggest shockwave was the announcement of *Dark Ties*, a companion game bundled with *Kiwami 3* that offers a playable story centered on Yoshitaka Mine. As the ambitious and ruthless chairman of the Hakuho Clan, Mine was a formidable and tragic antagonist in the original *Yakuza 3*. This new scenario promises to delve deep into his backstory and motivations, offering players a chance to experience the game's events from an entirely new and compelling perspective.

While details are currently scarce, this move represents a bold evolution of the Kiwami formula. Rather than simply adding cutscenes, RGG Studio is crafting an entire playable chapter dedicated to an antagonist, a decision that has been met with widespread praise. This addition will not only enrich the main narrative of *Kiwami 3* but also provide a definitive look into one of the series' most memorable characters.

Narrative Depth and Enhanced Storytelling

The showcase concluded with a tantalizing cinematic from *Kiwami 3*, underscoring the studio's mastery of dramatic storytelling. The scene's emotional weight and high-fidelity character models promise a retelling that is both faithful and significantly enhanced. The Kiwami remakes are known for expanding on the original plots, and *Kiwami 3* looks to continue that tradition, particularly in exploring Kiryu's paternal role at the Morning Glory Orphanage—a narrative arc cherished by fans.

Furthermore, the existence of *Dark Ties* suggests a deep commitment to fleshing out the entire world of *Yakuza 3*. By exploring Mine's side of the story, the remake package is poised to add layers of nuance and complexity to a plot already lauded for its emotional depth. A brief glimpse at character customization also hinted at an expanded wardrobe for Kiryu, allowing for greater player expression.

An Evolved Legacy

The announcement of *Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties* marks a new high point for RGG Studio's revitalization efforts. After the successes of *Yakuza Kiwami* and *Yakuza Kiwami 2*, which rebuilt the PS2 classics from the ground up, this new two-in-one package elevates the concept. It is no longer just about modernizing a classic but about fundamentally expanding it, offering both a definitive version for veterans and a rich, multi-faceted entry point for newcomers. The decision to remake *Yakuza 3* is significant, as it bridges the gap between the older titles and the modern era of the franchise, and the inclusion of *Dark Ties* makes it an unmissable event.

While a firm release date has not yet been announced, the polished state of the gameplay footage suggests development is progressing smoothly. The dual reveal has set a new standard for video game remakes, ensuring that when players return to Kiryu's struggle between his past and his newfound family, the experience will be more vibrant, action-packed, and emotionally resonant than ever before.