Like a Dragon: Yakuza Actors Have Never Played the Game

The cast of the upcoming Like a Dragon: Yakuza adaptation revealed a surprising detail: they never played the games! This article explores the actors' reasoning and the resulting fan reaction.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza Actors: A Game-Free Approach

A Fresh Perspective

At San Diego Comic-Con last July, lead actors Ryoma Takeuchi and Kento Kaku confessed they hadn't played the Yakuza games. This was a deliberate choice by the production team, aiming for a unique interpretation of the characters. Takeuchi, speaking through a translator (via GamesRadar+), explained that while aware of the games' popularity, he was encouraged to approach the role organically, without prior game experience. Kaku agreed, emphasizing their commitment to creating their own version, respecting the source material's spirit while forging their own path.

Fan Reactions: A Divided Fandom

The news generated mixed reactions. While some fans worried about deviations from the source material, others argued that prior game knowledge wasn't crucial for a successful adaptation. Concerns were already heightened by the omission of the iconic karaoke minigame. The actors' lack of game experience further fueled these anxieties, although some fans remain hopeful.

Ella Purnell, lead actress in Amazon's Fallout adaptation (which garnered 65 million viewers in two weeks), offered a contrasting perspective. While acknowledging the creative freedom of the showrunners, she highlighted the benefits of immersing oneself in the source material's world.

Despite the actors' unfamiliarity with the games, RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama expressed confidence in directors Masaharu Take and Kengo Takimoto's vision. He compared Director Take's understanding of the story to that of the original creator, emphasizing his trust in the director's approach. Yokoyama celebrated the actors' unique interpretations, viewing them as a refreshing departure from the established game canon, particularly regarding the character of Kiryu. He believed the show's fresh perspective would offer a valuable contrast to the games' established portrayal.

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