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 a mixed reaction among fans.

Barmack explained the omission, stating that condensing the game's extensive 20+ hour storyline into a six-episode series necessitates prioritization. While karaoke is absent from the initial run, he hinted at its potential inclusion in future seasons, especially considering lead actor Ryoma Takeuchi's fondness for karaoke. This suggests a strategic choice to focus on the core narrative in the first season.

The absence of karaoke has raised concerns among fans that the series might sacrifice the comedic elements and quirky side stories that define the Yakuza games. This concern highlights the inherent challenge of adapting beloved games, balancing fan expectations with creative vision. The success of Prime Video's Fallout series, praised for its faithfulness, contrasts with the criticism leveled at Netflix's Resident Evil adaptation 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 that will keep them entertained, hinting at the preservation of the series' unique charm despite the karaoke exclusion. The full extent of this charm remains to be seen. Further details can be found in our coverage of Yokoyama's SDCC interview and the series' initial teaser.