I remember what a big deal it was when the Yakuza games finally came to Xbox—what was once forged in the land of PlayStation got to spread its wings. But Nintendo fans have never had the chance to experience this epic series on their beloved consoles… until now. With the launch of the Switch 2 and all its upgrades, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and Sega have finally brought a Yakuza title to Nintendo in Yakuza.0 Director’s Cut. It also marks nearly ten years since the original release of Yakuza 0.
Portable Definitive Edition
This version can be seen as the definitive edition, and it’s exclusive to the Switch 2. That feels fitting, given the game’s importance. Yakuza.0 arguably marked the moment the series began winning over Western audiences.
From the outset, Yakuza.0 Director’s Cut on Switch 2 is very much a port with a few added extras. Long-time fans shouldn’t expect major changes to the core content.
Back to the Past
Set in late 1988, seventeen years before the first Yakuza game, the story follows a young Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima as they climb the ranks in Kamurochō and Sotenbori. They soon find themselves caught in a turf war between rival factions over a small but crucial patch of land known as the “Empty Lot”.
In true Yakuza fashion, what begins as a simple gangland tale quickly spirals into something far more dramatic—and often completely bonkers.
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It’s a cinematic experience, packed with lengthy, gripping cutscenes. Voiced in English for the first time, it plays out like a gangster soap opera, full of twists and turns.
Open and Inviting World
Gameplay is split between the main story, side missions (with over 100 substories), and free exploration of Kamurochō and Sotenbori. You’ll meet plenty of colourful characters, and as always, distractions from the main plot are everywhere.
From karaoke and cabaret clubs to Pocket Circuit racing and disco dancing, there’s loads to discover as you roam through these vibrant city districts.
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Combat sticks to the classic Yakuza style. No turn-based systems here. It’s all real-time brawling, taking on thugs and gangsters as you work your way up to the big bosses.
Yakuza Style
Visually, it holds up well for a game based on a decade-old title. It’s not on par with the latest entries, but clever use of lighting and shadows adds depth and atmosphere to the world and moment-to-moment gameplay.
The sound design is timeless. From intense battle themes to the weighty delivery of each line by the voice cast, it all helps build a world that feels alive.
Cutting Room Floor
The Director’s Cut adds a few new cutscenes, fleshing out key moments in the story. Most notably, it includes a full English dub—the first in the game’s history.
There’s also a new online horde-style multiplayer mode, letting you fight as an all-star lineup of series favourites with your mates. Plus, quality-of-life tweaks like being able to save anywhere add convenience.
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None of these additions are game-changing on their own, of course. But, together they enhance the experience, lifting an already strong title to new heights.
Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut is the most complete version of the game and a perfect entry point for a whole new audience. It’s ready to shine on Nintendo’s new hardware, just as brightly as it did elsewhere.
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