Published on: September 24, 2025
Yakuza Kiwami 3 Remake Announced for Nintendo Switch 2 With New Expansion 'Dark Ties'
RGG Studio, the developers behind the acclaimed Yakuza series, have officially announced a full remake of Yakuza 3, now titled Yakuza Kiwami 3, during the recent RGG Summit livestream.
Expanding their commitment to revitalizing the franchise, Sega revealed that this latest installment will not only reach PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, but will launch on the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 as well.
The renewed partnership between Sega and Nintendo continues to bring flagship titles to the platform, underscoring Switch 2's growing role in the multiplatform space.
Originally released in 2009 for the PlayStation 3, Yakuza 3 has long stood as one of the franchise’s more debated entries.
Its age and disjointed narrative structure left some long-time fans divided.
RGG Studio aims to address these criticisms with Yakuza Kiwami 3, rebuilding the game from the ground up using the cutting-edge Dragon Engine, the same powerful technology behind Yakuza Kiwami 2.
This full remake is expected to modernize the gameplay, visuals, and storytelling, delivering an experience in line with contemporary entries in the franchise.
In an official statement during the RGG Summit, studio representatives explained that Yakuza Kiwami 3 is designed to "bridge the gap for new fans while respecting the origins of the series," ensuring both newcomers and returning players will find a definitive version of the classic adventure.
The release is scheduled for February 12, 2026, making it a significant addition to the launch window for Nintendo Switch 2 and reinforcing Sega's support for the platform.
One of the most notable features of Yakuza Kiwami 3 is the inclusion of a substantial new story expansion titled "Dark Ties." This addition goes well beyond the bonus content seen in previous remakes, creating an experience that is almost a standalone title in itself.
"Dark Ties" serves as a prequel, focusing on the complex antagonist Yoshitaka Mine and unveiling unexplored chapters of his narrative.
RGG Studio confirmed that this expansion offers dedicated minigames and extra modes, providing much greater depth than previous series bonuses, such as the short story content added to Yakuza Kiwami 2.
Yakuza Kiwami 3's announcement follows recent news that Sega has ported Yakuza Kiwami 1 and Kiwami 2 to Nintendo Switch 2, as well as plans for a physical release of Yakuza Kiwami via Limited Run Games.
This strategic expansion of the Yakuza library on Nintendo hardware aligns with growing fan demand and cements the series’ presence on the new console and eShop ecosystem.
With RGG Studio’s proven craftsmanship, the Dragon Engine, and robust support from Sega, Yakuza Kiwami 3 stands poised to revitalize a pivotal chapter of the Yakuza series for a global audience.
Fans can look forward to a definitive rendition of this cult classic when it releases across all major platforms, including the Nintendo Switch 2, in early 2026.
Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch 2 Switch Yakuza Yakuza Kiwami RGG Studio Yakuza Kiwami 3 Dark Ties Sega Dragon Engine Yoshitaka Mine