Like a Dragon: Yakuza Actors Have Never Played the Game

The actors portraying the characters in the live-action adaptation of Like a Dragon: Yakuza revealed a surprising fact: they never played the games before or during filming. This decision and its impact on fans is explored below.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza Actors' Unexpected Confession

A Fresh Perspective, Not a Replay

At San Diego Comic-Con last July, lead actors Ryoma Takeuchi and Kento Kaku stunned fans by admitting their unfamiliarity with the Yakuza game series. This wasn't an oversight; the production team intentionally chose this approach to foster a unique interpretation of the characters.

Takeuchi explained (via translator, as reported by GamesRadar+), "I know these games—everyone knows them. But I haven't played them. I'd like to, but they stopped me. They wanted a fresh start for the characters, so I decided not to play."

Kaku agreed, stating, "We aimed for our own version, to embody the characters' spirit independently. We wanted a clear distinction, but underpinning everything was respect for the source material."

Fan Reactions: A Divided Front

This revelation sparked a divided fan response. Some fear a significant departure from the games' established lore, while others believe the concern is overblown. Successful adaptations depend on numerous factors; prior game experience isn't necessarily crucial.

The omission of the iconic karaoke minigame, announced previously, further fueled fan anxieties about the show's faithfulness. While optimism remains among some fans, concerns about capturing the series' essence are growing.

Ella Purnell, from Prime Video's Fallout adaptation, offered a contrasting perspective. In an interview with Jake's Takes, she highlighted the benefits of immersing oneself in the game's world, noting the success of Fallout (65 million viewers in two weeks) as a potential example. She stressed understanding the world being built, while acknowledging creative freedom ultimately lies with the showrunners.

Despite the actors' lack of gameplay experience, RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama expressed confidence in directors Masaharu Take and Kengo Takimoto's vision. In a Sega interview at SDCC, Yokoyama stated, "Director Take spoke to me as if he authored the original story. I knew we'd have something fun if we fully trusted him."

Regarding the actors' portrayals, Yokoyama added, "Their interpretations are completely different, but that's what makes it great." He emphasized a desire for an adaptation that transcends mere imitation, welcoming a fresh take on the established character of Kiryu.

For more on Yokoyama's insights into Like a Dragon: Yakuza and its initial teaser, see the linked article.