'Yakuza Kiwami (2016)' puts a lot of so-called 'remasters' to shame. This isn't just a HD up-res, or even re-skin, of 'Yakuza (2005)'. Instead, it's an entirely different experience, one built upon the engine created for 'Yakuza 0 (2015)'. It updates the combat system, introduces several new side-missions and activities - including a complete 'Majima everywhere' sub-plot that's now considered one of the game's key features - and even adds some new cut-scenes, all of which are voiced in the original Japanese by most of the original cast (as the western adaptation of the 2005 release only shipped with an almost universally panned English dub). The meat-and-potatoes may still be the same, and thankfully so, but these new additions go a long way in making the experience more accessible for modern audiences. It's actually arguable that this is a better game than its non-'Kiwami' counterpart. That's a refreshing thing to be able to say, especially now that we're in an age where seemingly every somewhat average game is getting a 'remaster' just a few years after its release (I mean, 'Bulletstorm (2011)' is alright but come on) and when certain 'remasters' are considered actively worse than the thing they are 'remastering' (ala 'Batman: Return To Arkham (2016)'). As an observer, the 'Yakuza' series has always seemed like an odd one. After playing 'Yakuza Kiwami (2016)', my first foray into the series, I can confirm that this is indeed the case, at least for the franchise's first ('remastered') outing. There's a distinct dissonance when it comes to its story and sub-plots, with the former usually being played deadly straight to the point that it nears melodrama and the later often being incredibly absurd to the point of being laugh-out-loud. The game loop is, essentially: watch an incredibly long pre-rendered cut-scene, engage in a fight, watch a shorter but still long in-game cut-scene, engage in a fight, run to a location, watch a short in-game cut-scene, engage in a fight, run to a location, engage in a fight on the way, watch another short in-game cut-scene and then rinse and repeat. Somehow, this incredibly repetitive loop ends up being an incredibly entertaining one, though. All the story elements, whether they're main-line or sub-plot, are handled with immense care and attention-to-detail. They're written almost to perfection, frankly. The sprawling crime-epic of a plot carries serious heft, but it is balanced perfectly by the sillier yet still well-rounded side-stuff, which serves more to fill out the world and provide you with interesting people to briefly interact with. These oddities aren't the main focus, but they're crucial in making the experience as enjoyable as it is, especially since they're often properly funny and usually evolve in unexpected and mature ways. The main story can be a little convoluted, but it is gripping throughout, built around likeable leads who you care about every step of the way. Even though things get a little grandiose, proceedings remain grounded and, essentially, small-stakes (the world isn't in danger or anything like that). It really feels like you're playing through a crime-drama, one that isn't afraid to take its time in the quieter moments. The gameplay may seem slightly repetitive but, thanks to the newly reinvigorated combat system, never gets tiring. I fought over two-hundred street-toughs while roaming around the game's hub-world of 'Kamurocho', which doesn't consider the often dizzying number of foes you face in the campaign or side-stories, and I wasn't ever bored by a battle; even the slightly-too-invasive Majima didn't wear me down. The four combat styles that drive the experience are diverse and deep, especially once you unlock the plethora of skills available. As you progress through the narrative, you'll often find yourself switching styles to suit the situation and to try out new, devastating moves as you unlock them. 'Dragon' is far and away the best style once you've completed its upgrade tree, so you'll probably stick to that after a certain point, though; its 'tiger drop' counter-move is absolutely devastating. Outside of combat, you'll mainly be running to and fro in order to speak to people and help with their problems or progress the plot. It's almost bizarre how such a simple game loop can be so effective. It's probably down to the fact that the story is so fun to watch, never-mind play. Though, playing is obviously fun, too. The various side-activities are so well rounded that you could spend hours doing them - and you'll probably have to if you want to get every available CP point. There's mahjong, shogi, poker, baccarat, roulette, blackjack, cho-han, cee-lo, oicho-kabu, koi-koi, bowling, pool, darts, karaoke, pocket-circuit racing, a batting cage, a photo booth, a hostess club, a claw-machine and an in-depth, rock-paper-scissors-based arcade game. Many of these are fully formed enough to be their own games - or apps, at least. The amount of depth is staggering, almost off-putting, even. So, you won't be stuck for things to do. I guess your enjoyment will come down to home much you like the core story and game-loop, though. There are some clunky game-design elements (like invisible walls, easily getting stuck on geometry and the generally repetitive nature) that are much easier to overlook - and maybe, even, seem charming - if you are taken in by the experience, engrossed by its story and empowered by its combat. I certainly was. I loved pretty much every minute of my time with 'Yakuza Kiwami (2016)'. I can't wait to see what the rest of the series has to offer. 9/10
