Yakuza Series Undergoes Changes as PS4 Version Faces Delisting

The gaming community is reacting to the controversial decision by RGG Studio to permanently remove the original PlayStation 4 version of Yakuza 0 in favor of its new release, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut. This move means that players who wish to access the original game must acquire a physical Blu-ray copy, as the digital version will no longer be available.

In an attempt to address backlash from this decision, the studio has opted for a compromise regarding the availability of Yakuza 3 Remastered. Players will be able to purchase the remastered version from the PlayStation Store until February 12, 2024, the date when the remake of Yakuza 3 is set to launch. Following this date, the standalone remaster will be delisted, although it will remain accessible as part of the Yakuza Complete Series Bundle, priced at £114.99 or $129.99.

While the bundle includes several titles—including Yakuza Kiwami, Yakuza Kiwami 2, Yakuza 4, Yakuza 5, and Yakuza 6: The Song of Life—the price may deter players interested only in the original experience of Yakuza 3. The standalone version currently retails for £15.99 or $19.99, raising concerns about the value proposition of the complete bundle.

Despite the intention behind these changes, many fans view this as a significant misstep by SEGA. The decision to delist the original version of Yakuza 0 and the restrictions on Yakuza 3 Remastered have sparked discussions about the accessibility of classic titles in a rapidly evolving gaming landscape.

It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the overall reception of the Yakuza series. While SEGA has made efforts to keep the original titles available, the execution has left many players feeling frustrated. The gaming community is left wondering why both the remake and remaster cannot coexist, allowing players more flexibility in their choices.