Fans of the Yakuza series are demanding a boycott of the upcoming Yakuza Kiwami 3, following the revelation that actor Teruyuki Kagawa has faced accusations of sexual harassment. The Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio introduced remakes of the classic Yakuza games starting in 2016, naming them Yakuza Kiwami. After the successful remake of Yakuza 2 in 2017, fans have eagerly awaited news about Yakuza Kiwami 3.

Yakuza Kiwami 3

In mid-September, a brief mention of Yakuza Kiwami 3 on RGG Studio’s website kindled excitement among fans, leading to speculation about an imminent announcement. This was confirmed with a new trailer, revealing a side story titled “Dark Ties” centered around Yoshitaka Mine. Yet, anticipation is overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Kagawa’s casting.

Hiring of Kagawa Raises Eyebrows

Three characters from Yakuza 3 will undergo recasting for Yakuza Kiwami 3, with Kagawa chosen for the role of Goh Hamazaki. Despite his notable acting career spanning over two decades, Kagawa acknowledged his involvement in a harassment incident in 2019, admitting to it in 2022. Consequently, his public role with Toyota was terminated, leaving fans questioning RGG Studio’s awareness of his past.

Fans are now urging other gamers to cancel pre-orders in protest. In addition to online discussions, a petition on change.org has gathered nearly 2,500 signatures, highlighting that the Yakuza franchise focuses on moral themes, making the casting decision “abhorrent”.

As of now, Yakuza Kiwami 3 is set to be released on February 11, 2026. Whether RGG Studio and Sega will respond to the backlash is yet to be determined, but fans remain vocal about their concerns.