Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is a dual-game that provides players with both an exciting remake of Yakuza 3, along with the brand-new Dark Ties game that features Yoshitaka Mine in a separate experience. With two games in one package, some players might be spoiled for choice, especially when they first boot up the game. However, one needs to be played before the other.
For fans of the series or newcomers, it’s important to pick the right game to play so that your immersion isn’t broken, and so that you experience them in the order that makes the most sense. As such, we’ll talk you through which should be played first out of Yakuza Kiwami 3 or Dark Ties.
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Should You Play Yakuza Kiwami 3 or Dark Ties First?
Yakuza Kiwami 3 or Dark Ties?
Players should complete Yakuza Kiwami 3 first before trying out Dark Ties. If players start with Dark Ties, then they will spoil elements of Yakuza Kiwami 3‘s story. Yakuza Kiwami 3 continues the legendary story of Kazuma Kiryu, and across its gameplay and cutscenes, players will be introduced to a multitude of characters, twists, and story beats. One such character is Yoshitaka Mine, the protagonist of Dark Ties.
After experiencing the entire story of Yakuza Kiwami 3, you should check out Dark Ties to experience Mine’s story, which acts as a spin-off to the main game. Dark Ties is far shorter in length, and experiencing this prequel episode after the events of Yakuza Kiwami 3 will allow players to learn more about a character they have already met, instead of being confused by his introduction and who he is.
Even if players have experienced the original Yakuza 3, it’s still a good idea to experience Yakuza Kiwami 3 before Dark Ties; players are only getting a piece of the grand puzzle instead of the whole thing.
- Released
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February 11, 2026
- ESRB
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Mature 17+ / Blood, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Use of Alcohol, In-Game Purchases