Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut – First Impressions and Gameplay Preview

Alright, here we go.

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So, get this — Like A Dragon is making waves on the Nintendo Switch 2 next month. Wild, right? Another Yakuza game landing on a Nintendo platform. First, the Wii U had its moment, then Switch got all the love with Yakuza Kiwami, and now bam, Yakuza 0 is debuting on the Switch 2. I managed to sneak a bit of gameplay in, and man, there’s stuff to spill.

It’s kinda bonkers to think Yakuza 0 hit the scene 10 years ago in Japan on the PS3 & PS4, and now it’s getting a director’s cut with the Switch 2. Director’s cut, huh? Makes sense, though the original director’s moved on from SEGA. Anyway, this version’s jazzing things up with English voices, new cutscenes, and a mode called Red Light Raid. Can’t say I saw that one coming.

After about 45 minutes of playing while docked, I’ve got to say, it’s smooth like butter on the Switch 2. We snagged some direct gameplay footage — 60 fps feels pretty darn stable. No clue if it’s true 4K, but hey, it’s definitely at least 1440p. Asked a SEGA guy about HDR – nope, nada. Bit of a bummer.

Yakuza 0’s actually a sweet starting point if you’re new to all this. The solo mode? Top-notch — full of humor and heart. Tons of mini-games, weird but fun stuff like karaoke and those classic SEGA arcade games. And of course, the beat ‘em up action rocks multiple fighting styles. Plus, exploring 1980s Japan? Total blast from the past. Can’t wait to dive back into the story (played it on PS4 before, no shame).

Honestly, the Red Light Raid mode isn’t really my jam. To be fair, I’m not exactly a superstar in Yakuza battles, and this is your typical horde mode. Waves of baddies and bosses to take down. Tried it solo (could’ve grabbed computer pals), but you can also team up with friends, online or local. Lots of characters to choose from, like Ginger Chapman — think evil Chucky doll vibes, but human. His thing is stabbing, which is vaguely entertaining but kinda repetitive.

Switching things up a bit, I had more laughs playing as Kazuma Kiryu, though you’re locked into a single battle style. You earn cash here, level up characters, maybe unlock more. Playing solo was a quick thrill, but I’d bet it’s way more fun with friends.

Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut is kinda at the top of my list for the Switch 2 launch. Played before, but super curious about the English dub (original Japanese’s still an option). Not entirely hooked on this new Red Light Raid deal, yet I’m giving it another whirl next month.

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Here’s hoping this does the trick!