Baka Mitai! Like a Dragon: Yakuza Live-Action Series Won’t Have Karaoke

The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the Yakuza series, Like a Dragon, will notably omit the beloved karaoke minigame, a staple of the franchise since Yakuza 3 (2009). This decision, revealed by executive producer Erik Barmack, has sparked debate among fans.

Barmack stated that including karaoke, given the series' six-episode format, might detract from the main narrative. He hinted at the possibility of karaoke's inclusion in future seasons, especially considering lead actor Ryoma Takeuchi's fondness for karaoke. The limited episode count necessitates a focus on the core story, potentially sacrificing some side activities to maintain director Masaharu Take's vision.

The absence of karaoke has raised concerns that the series might prioritize a serious tone over the comedic elements and quirky side stories characteristic of the Yakuza games. This highlights the challenge of adapting beloved games while satisfying fans' expectations for faithfulness. The success of Prime Video's Fallout series, praised for its accurate portrayal, contrasts with the negative reception of Netflix's Resident Evil adaptation, criticized for deviating from the source material.

RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama described the series as a "bold adaptation," aiming for a fresh experience rather than a simple recreation. He assured fans that the show will retain elements of the series' unique charm, promising moments that will keep viewers entertained. While details remain scarce, this suggests that the series hasn't entirely abandoned the franchise's signature humor. Further information can be found in our article covering Yokoyama's SDCC interview and the series' first teaser.