Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut Brings David Hayter as Osamu Kashiwagi to Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Lineup

Sega has officially unveiled new details for the launch of Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, highlighting veteran actor David Hayter stepping back into the role of Osamu Kashiwagi.

This announcement follows the recent confirmation of the full English voiceover cast and places Yakuza 0 among the high-profile titles launching day one on Nintendo’s next-generation hardware. Yakuza 0, an acclaimed action-adventure game originally developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and published by Sega, serves as the dramatic prequel to the long-running Yakuza series.

First released in 2015, the title has gained a strong following for its gripping narrative, deep character development, and signature beat ’em up gameplay.

The Director’s Cut, arriving on the Switch 2 as part of the June 5, 2025, launch lineup, aims to introduce both new and veteran fans to the origins of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima. David Hayter, best known as the voice of iconic characters like Solid Snake in the Metal Gear Solid series, reprises his role as Osamu Kashiwagi.

Sega shared footage giving players a preview of Hayter bringing Kashiwagi’s complex persona to life.

Hayter has an extensive background in gaming voice acting, lending his talent to franchises such as Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty, and Dragon Age: Inquisition.

Gaming fans may also recognize Hayter's ongoing work as Kashiwagi in Yakuza: Like A Dragon and the recent Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, making his connection to the series a notable draw for Switch 2’s debut. Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut will launch alongside other anticipated titles like Mario Kart World, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, and Street Fighter 6.

The physical Switch 2 release is confirmed to use the controversial Game Key Card format: instead of containing the game data, the cartridge requires a full download from the eShop.

This distribution method has prompted debate among collectors and physical media enthusiasts, as it shifts away from the traditional full-cartridge delivery associated with Nintendo’s legacy. For players looking to explore the Yakuza universe ahead of the Switch 2 launch, Sega previously released Yakuza Kiwami on Nintendo Switch in 2024.

Kiwami, a complete remake of the original Yakuza, offers a compelling entry point with its refined mechanics and updated visuals, though some fans consider Yakuza 0 to be the optimal starting experience due to its prequel narrative and layered character work. With David Hayter’s esteemed return and Sega’s commitment to bringing core titles to new platforms, the arrival of Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut on Nintendo Switch 2 underscores the console’s robust day one library and the continuing popularity of the Yakuza series among global audiences.

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