Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties: New Details Revealed for Nintendo Switch 2 Release

SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio) have officially released new details surrounding the highly anticipated Yakuza Kiwami 3 and its companion title, Dark Ties.

Both titles are set to debut on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, with a confirmed release date of February 12, 2026.

This announcement gives fans a glimpse into the expanded combat systems, storylines, and character abilities that will define the experience, continuing SEGA’s initiative to bring the celebrated Yakuza franchise to new hardware platforms.

Yakuza Kiwami 3, a complete reimagining of the beloved third installment in the series, introduces Dragon of Dojima: Kiwami Style Combat.

This upgraded battle system boasts the largest variety of attack techniques ever seen in the franchise, blending returning fan-favorite moves with an array of new Heat Abilities.

Among the highlights is the Ryukyu Style Combat—a martial arts approach inspired by Okinawa’s fighting traditions.

When players engage in this style, protagonist Kazuma Kiryu can unleash combos using weapons like sai, tonfa, nunchaku, tekko, eiku, and the traditional tinbe and rochin.

By utilizing and mastering these stances, players fill a gauge which, when maximized, allows Kiryu to activate his Dragon Boost for enhanced strength and attack versatility. On the progression side, Kiryu’s ability upgrades are more robust than ever.

Players can develop his skills through intermediate missions and specialized training, providing the flexibility to tailor his combat capabilities to preferred playstyles.

Customizing Kiryu’s cellphone is another new feature, granting incremental boosts to motivation and skill efficiency, further expanding the game’s depth. Dark Ties, complementing Yakuza Kiwami 3, explores the origin story of Yoshitaka Mine and his rise within the complex hierarchy of the Tojo Clan.

Set in 2007 Kamurocho, players witness Mine’s tumultuous journey from a betrayed entrepreneur to a key figure seeking to understand the meaning of genuine connection.

After witnessing acts of loyalty and navigating shifting alliances, Mine forges a close bond with Tsuyoshi Kanda, eventually becoming his right-hand confidant in the Nishikiyama Family.

This narrative adds layers to the established Yakuza lore, expanding on the moral complexities and personal motivations that define the series. Combat in Dark Ties introduces Mine’s signature style, which draws upon shoot-boxing influences to allow fluid, aerial movement and precision strike combos.

A central mechanic is the build-up of Mine’s Shackled Heart gauge, which, once filled, unlocks Dark Awakening mode.

In this state, Mine unleashes a brutal array of Heat Actions—including devastating barrages and powerful gut punches—showcasing his lethal transformation as the true nature of his combat prowess is revealed.

As players develop Mine’s abilities, they can unlock even more advanced mid-air Heat Actions and further empower the Dark Awakening mode, offering strategic depth and replayability. Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Dark Ties represent a significant evolution for the franchise on Nintendo Switch 2, promising both returning fans and newcomers extensive storylines, revitalized combat systems, and deep character development.

For more insights and official screenshots detailing the upgraded features and gameplay elements unveiled by SEGA and RGG Studio, visit the official Nintendo eShop or stay tuned to upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo SEGA Switch 2 Switch Yakuza Yakuza Kiwami RGG Studio Yakuza Kiwami 3 Dark Ties Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties Daigo Dojima Yoshitaka Mine Tsuyoshi Kanda Tojo Clan