Yakuza Kiwami 3: The Graphics Saga That’s Unfolding Like a Soap Opera
Once upon a time, in a land filled with dragons (not the fire-breathing type, but more like action-packed narratives), a certain studio – let’s call them “Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio” for fun – decided to makeover a 2009 classic. Enter Yakuza Kiwami 3: a bold new remake that players couldn’t wait to dive into. Unfortunately, they dived right into a river of unfortunate graphics!
The Great Demo Debacle
Last week, when the demo dropped like a surprise guest at an awkward family reunion, players were ready to be dazzled. Instead, they discovered their excitement drowning in poor lighting. Screenshots resembling a poorly lit horror film from the river area set ablaze the internet, igniting a bonfire of complaints!
Lighting Issues? More Like Lighting What-Happened-There?
In a valiant attempt to douse the raging flames of concern, the studio took to X (the place formerly known as Twitter, but let’s not dwell on that). A message was sent out, akin to a medieval royal proclamation, declaring their awareness of the graphical calamity. It stated:
“Fear not, players! The demo’s pixelated visage does not represent the grand spectacle awaiting you in the final game.”
The infamous river was highlighted (not in a good way, mind you) as a specific trouble spot. Who knew water could look so… well, not like water? But fret not, dear gamers!
The Promised Patch: A Ray of Hope
In an heroic twist, a v1.11 patch was promised to swoop in like a superhero at the launch on February 12. This patch is set to rectify lighting boo-boos and other unnamed quality “Whoopsies” that players have so kindly pointed out. But what’s this? “Many other improvements” are also on the horizon? Oh, the suspense!
A Trip Down Memory Lane… with Extra Pixels
As if gamers weren’t thrilled enough with the remade graphics (or lack thereof), hats off to the studio for sticking with tradition. This new iteration will also gift players with a treasure trove of retro Sega games to play as they bask in the glory of modern gaming. Yes, while the main character is engaged in a life-and-death drama, nostalgic distractions from 12 Sega Game Gear titles await. Classic gaming bliss, with three surprise guest titles from Bandai Namco serving as the icing on the pixelated cake!
The Countdown to February 12
Mark calendars, set alarms, send carrier pigeons—Yakuza Kiwami 3 will arrive on February 12. Available on a sea of platforms—PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PS4, and PC—everyone will have a chance to experience the adventure, along with a sprinkle of throwback gaming fun!
So, grab controllers and hold onto those hopes high, because even if the lighting looks like it went to clown school in the demo, February 12 promises a radiant redemption. Or at least that’s the plan. Let the dramatic adventure begin!

