Yakuza Kiwami fans received a bittersweet surprise during the August 2024 Nintendo Direct when Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio announced that the beloved remake of the original Yakuza game would finally be coming to the Nintendo Switch. However, the excitement of this long-awaited port was dampened by the news that the game will be a digital-only release, with no physical version planned.

A Long-Awaited Port with a Catch

When Yakuza Kiwami was first released in 2016 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Like a Dragon franchise, it quickly became a fan favorite. Initially available on PlayStation 3 and 4, the game later expanded to PC and Xbox One, but a Switch version seemed unlikely—until now. The announcement of Yakuza Kiwami for Nintendo’s hybrid console was met with enthusiasm, especially from fans who had been hoping to play the game on the go. However, the excitement was tempered by the revelation that this new release would not include a physical edition.

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio confirmed on their Japanese Twitter account that Yakuza Kiwami would be making its debut on the Nintendo Switch as a digital-only title. This decision echoes a trend seen in other releases, such as Like a Dragon Gaiden, which was also distributed digitally in the West while receiving physical editions in other regions.

Why No Physical Version?

For many gamers, the absence of a physical edition is a disappointment, particularly given Sega’s history of providing boxed versions for their titles. Owning a physical copy has always been a significant aspect of gaming culture, especially for collectors who enjoy having a tangible piece of gaming history. The decision to forgo a physical release may be driven by several factors, including production costs and market demand, but it nonetheless leaves some fans feeling let down.

On the bright side, Sega has priced the Switch version of Yakuza Kiwami reasonably, matching its price on other platforms like Steam at $20. This makes the game more accessible to a broader audience, despite the lack of a physical edition.

Hope for a Future Physical Release?

While the initial news might be disappointing, it’s not entirely out of the question that Yakuza Kiwami could eventually receive a physical edition. Companies like Limited Run Games have a history of stepping in to offer physical versions of digital-only titles for dedicated fans. For example, Persona 4 Golden received a surprise physical release through Limited Run Games after it was ported to the Switch, PS4, and Xbox One. There’s a possibility that Yakuza Kiwami could follow a similar path, but for now, it remains a digital-only offering on the Switch.

Final Thoughts

Yakuza Kiwami’s arrival on the Nintendo Switch is a significant moment for the franchise, finally bringing the action-packed, narrative-driven experience to a new platform. While the lack of a physical edition may be a letdown for some, the game’s availability on the Switch at an affordable price point ensures that many new players will get to experience the story of Kazuma Kiryu.

As the October 24, 2024, release date approaches, fans can look forward to diving into Yakuza Kiwami on the Switch, even if it’s in a digital format. For those holding out hope for a physical copy, keep an eye on companies like Limited Run Games, who might just bring that dream to life.

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