Yakuza: Like a Dragon Takes the Leap to Amazon Prime Video

SEGA’s hit game franchise, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, is set to become a live-action series on Amazon Prime Video this autumn. The new series, comprising six episodes, will be an adaptation of the hit action-adventure game, but with an original story.

The Yakuza franchise has become a global hit

Set in two time-periods - 1995 and 2005 - the series will follow two childhood friends whose lives are affected by the actions of Yakuza warrior Kazuma Kiryu. The screenplay has been written by Sean Crouch (Wolf Pack) and Yugo Nakamura (New Masters Of Flash).

Japanese filmmaker Masaharu Take, known for his acclaimed works such as 100 Yen Love (2014) and We Make Antiques (2018), will be directing the new series. Actor and model Ryoma Takeuchi, who played the lead in Japanese superhero franchise Kamen Rider, will play protagonist Kiryu.

The Yakuza franchise has become a global phenomenon since the first game was released 19 years ago. The series has sold millions of copies worldwide, with the latest game, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, released earlier this year.

Kazuma Kiryu, the beloved character of the Yakuza franchise

“I have poured out my heart, soul, and the experience that I have garnered over 35 years into Like a Dragon: Yakuza,” said Take. “The unbridled passion, talent, and countless hours of efforts from the entire team have helped bring this spectacular story to life.”

Takeuchi said: “I am truly honored to be given the opportunity to play the role of Kazuma Kiryu, a beloved character and the game series. Audience will enjoy the show’s human drama and conflict that unfolds around Kazuma Kiryu.”

The Japanese role-playing video games of SEGA’s Yakuza franchise work as standalone crime-dramas, as players traverse a fictional district of a city, Kamurocho, which is modeled on Tokyo’s red light district Kabukicho, often focusing on Kiryu’s life.

Kamurocho, the fictional district of Tokyo

The new series will stream worldwide on Amazon Prime Video from October 24, 2024. With its original story and talented cast, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is set to captivate audiences worldwide.

Amazon Prime Video, the streaming platform for the new series