Yakuza Actors Embark on Immersive Gaming Experience

Like a Dragon: Yakuza Adaptation – A Fresh Perspective from Unplayed Territory

The lead actors in the upcoming Like a Dragon: Yakuza adaptation, Ryoma Takeuchi and Kento Kaku, revealed a surprising detail at SDCC: neither had played any of the games before or during filming. This deliberate choice, according to the production team, aimed for a fresh, unfiltered interpretation of the characters.

Takeuchi explained (via translator) to GamesRadar+ that while aware of the games' global popularity, he intentionally avoided playing them to approach the role organically. Kaku corroborated this, emphasizing their commitment to creating their own version, respecting the source material's spirit while forging a unique on-screen portrayal.

Fan Reactions: A Spectrum of Opinions

This unconventional approach has ignited a debate among fans. Some express concern about potential deviations from the source material, while others believe such worries are overblown. The absence of the iconic karaoke minigame, announced previously, further fueled these anxieties. While optimism remains amongst some fans, others question whether the series will authentically capture the essence of the beloved franchise.

Ella Purnell, lead actress in Prime Video's Fallout adaptation (which garnered 65 million viewers in two weeks), offered a contrasting perspective. While acknowledging the benefits of immersing oneself in the game's world, she stressed that creative freedom ultimately rests with the show's creators.

RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama expressed confidence in directors Masaharu Take and Kengo Takimoto's vision. He likened Director Take's understanding of the story to that of the original author. Yokoyama embraced the actors' unique interpretations, viewing them as a refreshing departure from the established game characters, particularly Kiryu, whose portrayal in the games he considered already perfected. He emphasized a desire for an adaptation that transcends mere imitation.

For further insights into Yokoyama's perspective and the show's first teaser, refer to the linked article.