The early gameplay footage showcases the sixth and latest installment in the Yakuza franchise, which should come out in 2016 and only on PlayStation 4.
While some people were disappointed by the way in which Sega treated the Sonic titles, the video game developer makes up for it through its Yakuza releases.
For those unfamiliar with the titles, the series is an open world action-adventure game somewhat similar to the Grand Theft Auto series. The main protagonist, Kazuma Kiryu, is a Japanese mobster. The franchise has a hefty fan base in Japan, due to both the action scenes and the complex narrative.
Although the newest video is not a story trailer, it offers a good idea about the visual and gameplay upgrades that Yakuza 6 holds in store, as demonstrated by the parkour movements and actions.
Thanks to the PS4 performance, rendering capacities increased to the point where the game now offers real-time light rendering instead of static shading. This is mostly apparent in the demo when we see the main character walk through a convenience store and through a bar. In the latter location, light bounces realistically off the polished wooden counter.
Another big plus of the improved graphics becomes obvious when we compare it with the games that ran on PlayStation 3. The level of detail on both the characters' faces and clothing is significant, and the reaction times from fights improved drastically.
The animations engage the player, thanks to the way the main character can run seamlessly through the different scenery. Free-running blends neatly with running over objects and squeezing through uncomfortable spaces, which makes the movement style incredibly realistic.
In the video below, you can see Kazuma Kiryu as he walks and fights his way through Kamurocho.
Fans of the game series will be pleased to know that in Yakuza 6, famous Japanese director Takeshi Kitano makes a guest appearance. So far, Sega did not disclose what role he will play in the game.
Until the global launch of Yakuza 6 in 2016, players from North America can enjoy Yakuza 5 on PlayStation 3. Moreover, a remake of the first Yakuza game will soon be available on PlayStation 3 and 4. It is called Yakuza Kiwami and is a reworked version of the original PS2 game.
Players will be able to order Yakuza Kiwami on Jan. 21, 2016, and with the remarstered game they will receive a demo for Yakuza 6.
