The upcoming remaster of Yakuza 3, subtitled Kiwami 3, is set to significantly expand upon one of the original game’s most unique and, for some, divisive segments: the Morning Glory orphanage management.
Instead of focusing solely on Kazuma Kiryu’s return to fighting crime, players will apparently spend a substantial amount of time nurturing the young residents of the orphanage. This shift transforms a portion of the game into a surprisingly robust simulation experience.
Morning Glory: From Side Activity to Core Gameplay
In the original Yakuza 3, the orphanage minigames served as a peaceful respite from the series’ usual mobster drama. Players would engage in activities like fishing, crafting, and playing with the children. However, the scope was relatively limited. Reports suggest that Kiwami 3 will take these activities and multiply them, offering deeper engagement and more complex systems for managing the orphanage’s resources and the children’s well-being.
- Expanded Activities: Expect a wider variety of games and interactions with the children.
- Deeper Management: More intricate resource management and decision-making will be involved in running the orphanage.
- Narrative Integration: The orphanage gameplay is expected to be more closely woven into the main story.
The “Sunshine Orphanage” Dilemma
It’s worth noting the localization change in the original Western release, where the “Morning Glory” orphanage was renamed the “Sunshine Orphanage.” This was likely a decision to avoid any potential negative connotations or misunderstandings associated with the original name in different cultural contexts. The remaster’s approach to this naming convention remains to be seen.
Editor’s Take: A Bold Move for the Yakuza Series
This expansion of the orphanage gameplay in Yakuza Kiwami 3 represents a fascinating evolution for the series. While the Yakuza games are known for their blend of brutal combat and eccentric side content, leaning so heavily into a simulation aspect for a core segment is a bold choice. It offers a unique selling point, potentially attracting players who enjoy management sims alongside action-adventure narratives. This could also serve as a way to further humanize Kiryu, showcasing his paternal side more extensively than ever before. It’s a gamble that could pay off handsomely if executed with the series’ typical flair for both heart and absurdity.
This article was based on reporting from Push Square. A huge shoutout to their team for the original coverage.
