Sega has confirmed the Yakuza series will remain a turn-based RPG series going forward, following the most recent entry Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s departure from the series action-focused combat.

While the Yakuza series will remain a turn-based RPG series going forward (via IGN), Yakuza creator Toshihiro Nagoshi and producer Kazuki Hosokawa confirmed the series has been “transformed” into a turn-based RPG. Instead, the new Judgment spinoff, including its newly revealed Lost Judgment sequel, will take the reins on being the action-focused part of the franchise.

“The Yakuza series has been transformed into a turn-based RPG,” the two producers said. “On the other hand, over the year, Ryu ga Gotoku Studio has accumulated resources and know-how of making flashy and exhilarating action games that are effortless to enjoy. We decided that we should let our signature action gameplay live on through Lost Judgement.”

When the main story in the Yakuza series ended with protagonist Kazuma Kiryu in Yakuza 6: The Song of Life, new protagonist Ichiban Kasuga took charge in the turn-based successor, Yakuza: Like a Dragon. At the time it wasn’t certain if the new turn-based combat was a one-off or if it would be here to stay.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon is available on Windows PC (via the Microsoft Store, and Steam), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S. You can find our full review here, and suffice to say we cannot recommend it enough. It was also both the Niche Gamer Staff 2021 GOTY pick, and the Niche Gamer Community 2021 GOTY pick!

Image/meme source: KamiXaqui