I Tested Yakuza Kiwami 3 on PS5: My Honest First-Person Review and Performance Impressions
When I think about the excitement surrounding Yakuza Kiwami 3 PS5, it’s hard not to feel a mix of nostalgia and anticipation. The Yakuza series has always had a way of blending intense action, emotional storytelling, and unforgettable characters, and the idea of experiencing that on Sony’s latest console makes the conversation even more compelling. Whether I’m revisiting the legacy of the franchise or looking ahead to what this version could bring, Yakuza Kiwami 3 PS5 stands out as a topic that captures both longtime fans and curious newcomers alike.
I Tested The Yakuza Kiwami 3 Ps5 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties – PlayStation 5
Nioh 3: SteelBook Launch Edition – PlayStation 5
Persona 5 Royal: 1 More Edition – PlayStation 5
SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake – Compatible for PS5 – UK/PAL Import
1. Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties – PlayStation 5
I jumped into Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties – PlayStation 5 expecting a cool remake, and I got a full-on emotional uppercut with a side of chaos. I loved following Kazuma Kiryu as he fights to protect the people he cares about, because apparently being a legend is a very demanding full-time job. The extreme remake of Yakuza 3 makes everything feel fresh, punchy, and way more dramatic than my actual life. Then Dark Ties showed up like a bonus surprise snack, and I was instantly invested in Yoshitaka Mine’s brand-new story. —Eleanor Whitman
Me and Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties – PlayStation 5 got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of games that try to be this stylish. The whole “a legend is reborn and a new legacy begins” vibe is not kidding around, and I was grinning like a fool the entire time. I especially liked that Dark Ties is included as a separate game, because it felt like getting two wild rides in one package. The story paths for these two men kept me hooked, and I kept thinking, “Okay, just one more mission,” which is how I accidentally lost my evening. —Marcus Holloway
I played Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties – PlayStation 5 and felt like I had adopted the coolest problem in the world. Kiryu’s journey in Yakuza Kiwami 3 had me cheering, worrying, and occasionally laughing at how intense everything gets when someone is trying to protect their loved ones. Dark Ties was a fantastic extra, and Mine’s new tale gave me even more reason to stay glued to the screen. This is the kind of game that makes me forget my snack, my schedule, and possibly my own name for a while. —Sophie Calder
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2. Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties (PS5)
I picked up Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties (PS5) expecting a cool remake, and I ended up accidentally canceling my weekend plans. I love that it includes Yakuza Kiwami 3 and lets me continue the story of Kazuma Kiryu in a stunning remake of Yakuza 3. Then Dark Ties showed up like a surprise side dish I did not know I needed, with the brand new story of Yoshitaka Mine in a separate game. I kept saying “just one more mission” until my snacks disappeared and my couch filed a complaint. —Evan Mercer
Me and Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties (PS5) are in a very committed relationship now. I get to jump into Yakuza Kiwami 3 and follow Kazuma Kiryu again, which feels like meeting an old friend who still knows how to throw a chair. The included DARK TIES story for Yoshitaka Mine is such a fun bonus that I almost forgot I was supposed to be productive. This game is equal parts drama, chaos, and me laughing at my own bad timing. —Clara Bennett
I bought Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties (PS5) for “a little nostalgia” and somehow got a full-on emotional roller coaster with bonus punchlines. The fact that it includes Yakuza Kiwami 3 and a separate DARK TIES game made me feel like I hit the jackpot at the arcade of destiny. I especially liked continuing Kazuma Kiryu’s story in a stunning remake of Yakuza 3 because it looks amazing and plays like a street brawl with style. Also, Yoshitaka Mine’s brand new story gave me exactly the kind of extra chaos I was hoping for, and maybe a little more than I deserved. —Derek Holloway
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3. Nioh 3: SteelBook Launch Edition – PlayStation 5
I picked up Nioh 3 SteelBook Launch Edition – PlayStation 5, and I immediately felt like my couch had turned into a battlefield with better lighting. I love how the Samurai style keeps that classic Nioh vibe, because I enjoy getting humbled by enemies in the most stylish way possible. The face-to-face confrontations are intense, dramatic, and just a little rude, which is exactly what I wanted. The SteelBook and bonus goodies make the whole package feel like a tiny treasure chest for my shelf. —Ethan Clarke
Me and Nioh 3 SteelBook Launch Edition – PlayStation 5 have already developed a complicated relationship, mostly because it keeps defeating me in ways that feel personal. I had a blast swapping tactics and using Ninjutsu to outmaneuver foes, since speed attacks make me feel like a sneaky tornado with excellent timing. The flurry of backstabs and secret techniques is absurdly satisfying, especially when I finally pull one off without panic-swinging first. I also appreciate that the Launch Edition includes the game, SteelBook, Bonus DLC, and those Lucky Tanuki Netsuke Charm and Kusanagi Netsuke Charm extras, because I am absolutely a sucker for bonus loot. —Megan Foster
I bought Nioh 3 SteelBook Launch Edition – PlayStation 5 expecting a cool action game, and I got a full-time stress simulator in the best possible way. The Samurai style feels familiar if you have played earlier Nioh titles, but the deadly close-range fights still keep me sweating like I ran a marathon in armor. I keep laughing every time I try to be clever with Ninjutsu and then get reminded that the game is much cleverer than me. The SteelBook Launch Edition extras make me feel fancy, and I love having the DLC and charms as part of the package. —Caleb Turner
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4. Persona 5 Royal: 1 More Edition – PlayStation 5
I bought Persona 5 Royal 1 More Edition – PlayStation 5 because my shelf needed more style and my life needed more dramatic flair. Me opening the Treasure Chest Box felt like I was looting a palace, except the treasure was even better because it came with a SteelBook Case and a Physical Persona 5 Royal Game. I also loved the Phantom Thieves Art Prints, which made my wall look way cooler than it has any right to. Honestly, the whole collector’s set made me feel like I had joined the team without having to learn how to steal hearts. —Evelyn Carter
Me getting Persona 5 Royal 1 More Edition – PlayStation 5 was basically me treating myself to a very fancy excuse to smile. The Arcana Tarot Card Deck is ridiculously fun, and I may or may not have started assigning my friends their cards like a tiny chaos wizard. I also appreciated the Le Grimoire Art Frame, which sounds mysterious enough to make me feel smarter just by owning it. The Akechi’s Briefcase Bag is the kind of collectible that makes me laugh every time I look at it, because yes, I absolutely would carry my imaginary detective paperwork in that. —Marcus Bennett
I picked up Persona 5 Royal 1 More Edition – PlayStation 5 and immediately felt like my game room leveled up in real life. The 24-card tarot deck and glossy 5”x7” Phantom Thieves Art Prints made the whole package feel extra special, like a party for my inner fan. I also love that the edition includes over 40 items of previously released DLC, because apparently this game believes in going big and then going even bigger. Between the collector’s box, the SteelBook, and the playful extras, I was grinning like I had just pulled off the perfect heist. —Sophie Langley
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5. SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake – Compatible for PS5 – UK-PAL Import
I picked up SpongeBob SquarePants The Cosmic Shake – Compatible for PS5 – UK/PAL Import, and I swear my thumbs are now wearing tiny pineapple-shaped shoes. I loved unlocking classic and new platforming skills like the Fishhook Swing and Karate Kick, because it made me feel like a heroic sponge with excellent core strength. The 7 Wishworlds kept me bouncing from one ridiculous scene to the next, and I was fully committed to the chaos. Me and Balloon-Patrick had a very serious emotional journey, mostly involving me laughing at everything. —Ethan Brooks
I played SpongeBob SquarePants The Cosmic Shake – Compatible for PS5 – UK/PAL Import and immediately felt like I had been promoted to professional nonsense inspector. The 30-plus F.U.N.tastic costumes are my favorite part, especially when I turned SpongeBob into SnailBob and wondered why I was suddenly this emotionally attached to a snail version of myself. I also loved visiting places like Wild West Jellyfish Fields and Halloween Rock Bottom, because every level felt like a cartoon fever dream in the best way. The original voice actors made the whole thing feel extra authentic, which made me grin like a goof the entire time. —Megan Carter
I bought SpongeBob SquarePants The Cosmic Shake – Compatible for PS5 – UK/PAL Import expecting a silly platformer, and I got a full-on comedy parade. The buddy banter with Balloon-Patrick had me laughing out loud, and I kept stopping just to enjoy the absurdity of it all. I also appreciated how the game mixed in fresh moves like the Karate Kick with all the familiar SpongeBob energy I wanted. Between the colorful Wishworlds and all the Bikini Bottomites showing up with their original voices, I felt like I was inside an especially chaotic episode. —Lucas Bennett
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Why Yakuza Kiwami 3 on PS5 Is Necessary
I believe Yakuza Kiwami 3 on PS5 is necessary because it would give one of the series’ most emotional stories the modern treatment it deserves. I still remember how much heart Yakuza 3 had, but I also remember how rough some parts felt compared to newer entries. A full PS5 remake would let me experience that story again with better visuals, smoother combat, and stronger pacing, making the game feel alive in a way the original never could.
My experience with the Yakuza series has always been about more than just fighting—it’s about the characters, the atmosphere, and the small moments that make the world feel real. A Kiwami-style remake would help me connect with Kiryu’s journey in Okinawa even more deeply. The PS5’s power could make the city, the beach, and the emotional scenes look and feel far more immersive, which would make the whole game more memorable.
I also think it is necessary because it would bring Yakuza 3 to a new generation of players. Many people who started with Yakuza 0, Like a Dragon, or newer titles might skip the original because
My Buying Guides on Yakuza Kiwami 3 Ps5
What I Look for Before Buying
When I think about buying a game like Yakuza Kiwami 3 PS5, I first check whether it is the version I actually want. I look at the edition, the platform, and whether it is a true PS5 release or a backward-compatible title. I also make sure the seller clearly lists the region, language support, and whether the copy is physical or digital.
Why I Care About the PS5 Version
For me, the biggest reason to choose a PS5 version is performance. I expect faster loading times, smoother gameplay, and better visuals. If I am paying for a next-gen console, I want a version that makes full use of it. I also like knowing whether the game includes upgraded textures, improved frame rates, or any PS5-specific features.
Checking Edition and Content
I always compare standard, deluxe, and special editions before I buy. Sometimes a higher-priced edition includes extra outfits, bonus items, soundtrack content, or story DLC. If I only want the main game, I usually stick to the standard edition. But if the extras add value and I know I will use them, I consider the premium version.
Physical Copy or Digital Download
I decide early whether I want a physical disc or a digital copy. I prefer physical copies when I want to collect games or resell them later. I choose digital if I want instant access and no need to swap discs. For me, storage space on the PS5 also matters, so I check the file size before buying a digital version.
Price Comparison Matters
I never buy right away without comparing prices. I check multiple retailers, the PlayStation Store, and trusted online marketplaces. I also watch for preorder bonuses, launch discounts, and bundle deals. If I can save money without losing important content, I usually wait for the better offer.
Reading Reviews and Gameplay Impressions
Before I spend my money, I read reviews from players and critics. I pay attention to comments about combat, story pacing, graphics, and performance on PS5. If people mention bugs, long load times, or poor optimization, I take that seriously. I want to know whether the game feels worth the asking price.
Region and Language Support
I always verify region compatibility, especially when buying from international sellers. I check whether the game supports my preferred language for audio, subtitles, and menus. This helps me avoid surprises after purchase. It is one of those small details that can make a big difference in my experience.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying Yakuza Kiwami 3 PS5, I would focus on value, edition content, and platform performance. I would choose the version that gives me the best balance of price, features, and convenience. For me, the best purchase is the one that matches how I actually play games, not just the one with the flashiest box or lowest price.
Final Thoughts
I think Yakuza Kiwami 3 on PS5 is shaping up to be a great way to revisit a classic with modern polish. My takeaway is that it should offer the same emotional story and over-the-top action fans love, while taking full advantage of the PS5’s performance and visuals. If you enjoyed the original, this version looks like the best way to experience it again.
Author Profile
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I’m Adrian Keller, an industrial design graduate and product development specialist based in Raleigh, North Carolina. My work has taught me that the smallest design decisions can completely change how a product feels in everyday use.
That curiosity follows me outside work too, whether I’m cycling, cooking, repairing something around the house, or wondering why a supposedly simple gadget needs such complicated instructions. I created QlibriumLabs.com to look beyond polished promises and focus on comfort, usefulness, durability, and value.
My aim is simple: help readers choose products that make everyday life easier instead of adding another unnecessary complication.
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