The gaming community is currently abuzz with a crucial heads-up regarding the availability of the "Yakuza 3 Remastered" PC version. As the highly anticipated "Yakuza Kiwami 3" approaches its release, the opportunity to purchase the original 2009 game's enhanced rendition separately will soon vanish. This shift is poised to impact enthusiasts who prefer the classic experience over the forthcoming "extreme" remake, prompting a call to action for those looking to secure their copy before it's too late.
The developer, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, recently confirmed that while existing owners of "Yakuza 3 Remastered" will retain access, new players seeking the original version will only be able to acquire it as part of the extensive "Yakuza Complete Series" bundle. This bundle, priced at $130 on Steam when not discounted, offers a vast collection of Yakuza titles. However, it represents a substantial investment for players whose primary interest lies solely in "Yakuza 3 Remastered," which can currently be purchased individually for $20, often available for as low as $6 during sales events.
"Yakuza Kiwami 3" is touted as a comprehensive reimagining of the PlayStation 3 original, featuring significant enhancements. These include a new combat style for the protagonist Kiryu, fresh mini-games, expanded story segments, and additional content related to the orphanage storyline. Furthermore, the remake introduces "Dark Ties," an innovative roguelite dungeon crawl expansion that unfolds concurrently with the main narrative. While these updates promise a refined and enriched gaming experience, they also underscore the distinct differences from the original remastered version, which some players may still prefer for its authentic feel and graphical style, rooted in an earlier iteration of the Dragon Engine.
The situation mirrors a similar change observed with "Yakuza 0" last month, where its initial PC release was superseded by a "Director's Cut" edition. Although the "Director's Cut" of "Yakuza 0" primarily offered improvements rather than a full remake, it still necessitated an upgrade purchase, demonstrating a pattern of evolving game versions within the series. With "Yakuza Kiwami 2" launching on February 11, players have a limited window to purchase "Yakuza 3 Remastered" as a standalone title. This makes the present a critical period for fans to decide whether to embrace the upcoming remake or preserve the experience of the original remaster.
Therefore, for those contemplating diving into the world of "Yakuza 3" or adding its remastered version to their collection, acting swiftly is highly recommended. The impending release of "Yakuza Kiwami 3" marks a turning point in the accessibility of the original remastered game, making it an opportune moment to acquire it independently. This decision point ensures that players can choose the version that best suits their gaming preferences, whether that's the classic charm of the remaster or the modern refinements of the remake.
