Published on: September 17, 2025
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios, the acclaimed developer behind the Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) franchise, appears to have unintentionally unveiled its next major project: Like a Dragon Kiwami 3.
This potential remake of Yakuza 3 has surfaced following keen-eyed observations by fans and media, further igniting anticipation for the future of the long-running series.
The Like a Dragon series stands as one of Sega's flagship properties, captivating players worldwide with its gripping storytelling, deep character development, and vibrant depictions of Japanese urban life.
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios has received widespread recognition for its high-quality remakes, including the successful releases of Like a Dragon Kiwami and Kiwami 2, both remastered for modern platforms such as PlayStation, Xbox, and the Nintendo Switch.
These remakes set a high benchmark with improved visuals, reimagined gameplay, and expanded narrative elements, reinvigorating the franchise for new and returning fans alike.
The recent leak centers on a discovery made by a Reddit user, blubiboy98, who reported an unannounced title—Kiwami 3—appearing under the categories section of the series' official Japanese website.
The listing for “Kiwami 3” appeared alongside established entries in the “All News” column, echoing a strikingly similar incident from eight years ago when a Taiwanese PlayStation Network store listing revealed the existence of Kiwami 2 ahead of an official announcement.
With Like a Dragon: Ishin also receiving a successful Kiwami-style remake, industry watchers have long expected Yakuza 3 to follow suit.
While Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios and Sega have not issued an official statement regarding Like a Dragon Kiwami 3, past interviews lend credibility to the possibility.
Developers previously expressed interest in remaking additional entries in the series, a sentiment supported by the studio's robust development schedule and rapid output pace.
The Like a Dragon franchise celebrated major milestones in recent years, including surpassing 21 million units sold worldwide as of 2023.
Further speculation has been fueled by the upcoming RGG Summit, scheduled for September 24th, 2025.
While the focus is expected to be on “Stranger than Heaven,” the next original release from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios, the timing of the Kiwami 3 website mention suggests that an official announcement may not be far off.
Historically, significant updates for the series have coincided with high-profile livestream presentations such as Nintendo Directs or Sega’s own broadcasts, often preceding rapid console releases—frequently featuring optimized editions for platforms like the Nintendo Switch and digital storefronts including the eShop.
As Sega continues to expand its portfolio with remakes and fresh entries, Like a Dragon Kiwami 3 stands poised to maintain the studio's tradition of excellence.
Fans of the series—and industry analysts alike—will be closely watching for a formal reveal, optimistic that this celebrated chapter of Kazuma Kiryu’s journey will soon be reimagined for a new generation of consoles.
Yakuza Ryu Like a Dragon Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios Sega Like a Dragon Kiwami 3 Yakuza 3 RGG Studios Like a Dragon: Ishin RGG Summit Nintendo Switch