Yakuza: Like a Dragon TV Series Coming to Prime Video
The upcoming live-action series is based on the popular SEGA game franchise.
Prime Video has announced that it will premiere the Japanese original series, Like a Dragon: Yakuza, based on the popular game franchise from SEGA. The live-action adaptation features an original story based on SEGA’s hit game franchise.
The new series is directed by acclaimed Masaharu Take, and it will feature Ryoma Takeuchi as the lead character Kazuma Kiryu. The series depicts the lives of fierce, passionate gangsters and the people living in the entertainment district Kamurocho, a fictional district modeled after the Shinjuku ward’s Kabukicho, which serves as a backdrop for the gameplay.
“I am truly honored to be given the opportunity to play the role of Kazuma Kiryu, a beloved character and the game series. I strongly felt that I was willing to put my life on the line.” - Ryoma Takeuchi
A Gritty and Intense Story
The new show will be set in 1995 and 2005, spanning across two time periods. The original crime-suspense-action series will follow the life, childhood friends, and repercussions of the decisions of Kazuma Kiryu, a fearsome and peerless warrior among the Yakuza. Kiryu carries a strong sense of justice, duty, and humanity.
Kazuma Kiryu, a fearsome and peerless warrior among the Yakuza.
A Unique Adaptation
The series explores the dramatic stories that the games have not in the past. It will debut on the streamer later this October. Amazon MGM Studios Head of International Originals James Farrell stated, “We are thrilled and extremely excited to announce the Amazon Original action-drama Like a Dragon: Yakuza, based on the popular Japanese game series.”
The series will debut exclusively on Prime Video worldwide starting on October 25.
A New Take on a Beloved Franchise
RYUGAGOTOKU Studio Head and Executive Producer of the series Masayoshi Yokoyama said, “Since the day I first put pen to paper on the original ‘Yakuza’s script, I’ve never once thought about revisiting any of my work on the series. However, if I were ever sent to the past through some kind of cosmic joke, this is the experience I’d want to create.”
The new series promises to bring a fresh take on the beloved franchise, with a gritty and intense story that will appeal to both fans of the games and newcomers alike.
