A recent leak on Facebook has given fans a first look at “Yakuza Wars,” an upcoming mobile game in the Like a Dragon series, previously known as Yakuza. The game, targeting Chinese players, will be the first official mobile title licensed by Sega in this long-standing franchise. The leaked page showcased new artwork and provided a brief description, highlighting that the game will feature a classic gangster theme along with strategic war gameplay. Players can team up with famous characters from the series, such as Kiryu Kazuma, Kasuga Ichiban, and Majima Goro.
The announcement of “Yakuza Wars” follows Sega’s recent trademark filing for the title, sparking speculation about whether the game will be a significant entry in the series or merely a spin-off. During the Essence of Fandom event at Anime Expo in July, teasers from the developers at Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio suggested a surprise for their next game. Additionally, the studio announced that the next Like a Dragon game would be revealed at the Tokyo Game Show, scheduled for September 26-29, 2024.
Despite the leak, Sega has not officially confirmed or commented on “Yakuza Wars,” leading to questions about whether this game is indeed the surprise hinted at by the developers or if another mainline entry is in the works. Currently, ads and a trailer focusing on character art—but not actual gameplay footage—have been circulating online.
Sega’s continued expansion of the Like a Dragon series into new formats and markets seems to be the overarching trend. The strategic war gameplay indicates an innovative approach within the mobile gaming sector. Furthermore, the return of beloved franchise characters is likely to attract long-term fans while also enticing new players. This move aligns with broader industry trends where major gaming franchises are increasingly exploring mobile platforms to reach a broader audience.
In summary, “Yakuza Wars” aims to innovate within the mobile gaming space by combining strategic gameplay with familiar characters, targeting the Chinese market. Although an official reveal is pending, this announcement reflects broader trends in the gaming industry toward mobile expansion. The upcoming Tokyo Game Show is expected to provide further insights into Sega’s plans for the Like a Dragon series.
