"Like a Dragon" Stage Adaptation Officially Announced! Summary of Latest Updates from Official Program "Ryūgaku TV" Episode 44, Including Character Popularity Poll and Akiko Wada Playing "Akko-san"

Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/947/G094758/20251031050/

Editorial Department: Ryō Sugaura | 2025/10/31 13:01 (UTC)

Sega today (October 31, 2025) revealed a wealth of new information during the 44th episode of its official “Ryu ga Gotoku TV” series titled “Behind-the-Scenes of ‘Yakuza 4: The One Who Carries on the Legend’ & Announcement of New 20th Anniversary Project!”

First, details were unveiled regarding singer Akiko Wada, who was previously announced to appear in “Yakuza 5: Ultimate Edition / Yakuza 3 Side Story: Dark Ties” (available on PC / PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / Nintendo Switch 2 / PS4), including actual gameplay footage.

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Wada will appear in the game as a supporting character named “Akko-san.” She’ll meet Kazuma Kiryu during a filming trip for her own show, “Akko-san’s Request! A Leisurely Journey,” and gradually form bonds with him through various events.

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Footage shown during the broadcast confirmed scenes of Kiryu and Akko-san playing at a play spot together, as well as teaming up in the battle-based content “Tsuppari no Ryū.” The character features actions reminiscent of Wada’s famous songs—such as ringing a bell with her fist.

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PC Xbox Series X|S PS5 PS4 Nintendo Switch 2

Singer Akiko Wada Joins “Yakuza 5: Ultimate Edition / Yakuza 3 Side Story: Dark Ties” as a Substory Character

Sega announced that singer Akiko Wada will appear in the upcoming “Yakuza 5: Ultimate Edition / Yakuza 3 Side Story: Dark Ties,” scheduled for release on February 12, 2026. She will join as one of the supporting characters in a side story, forming bonds with Kazuma Kiryu and later playing at play spots together or fighting alongside him in team battle content.

[September 28, 2025, 13:35]

Additionally, a follow-up to the previously announced “20th Anniversary ‘Ryu ga Gotoku’ Wedding, Funeral & Ceremony Exhibition” was revealed. This large-scale exhibition centers on “wedding, funeral, and ceremony”—symbolic rites of life—and is already open for ticket sales. The event will be held in two locations with the following schedules:

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Tokyo
Dates: November 28, 2025 (Friday) – December 22, 2025 (Monday)
Venue: BEAM Gallery, 4th Floor, BEAM, 31-2 Udagawa-chō, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
Hours: Weekdays 11:00–21:00 / Weekends & Holidays 10:00–20:00

Osaka
Dates: February 6, 2026 (Friday) – February 24, 2026 (Tuesday)
Venue: ATC Gallery, Minami-ku, Osaka Port, 2-1-10 Nankō North, Suminoe Ward, Osaka
Hours: All days 10:00–19:00

During the broadcast, a newly created illustration was revealed for the “wedding” segment of the exhibition—featuring an exclusive special display where players can “get married to characters.” The costumes featured are unique and unlike any previously seen in the series.

Photos taken on-site can be saved as digital files or printed via a convenience store print AR app. Beyond regular photo-taking, the “Special Package Plan” allows guests to take photos wearing wedding gowns or tuxedos—provided through collaboration with TAKAMI BRIDAL. The event is described as an exclusive 20th-anniversary initiative, with organizers declaring: “We won’t do this again—at least not until the 30th anniversary.”

Official Website for the 20th Anniversary “Ryu ga Gotoku” Wedding, Funeral & Ceremony Exhibition

Next, Sega announced a new project: the stage adaptation of “Yakuza.” To determine which characters will appear on stage, a “Character Grand Election” has been launched. Around 1,500 characters are available for voting, with the top ten selected to star in the production.

The election will be conducted through a dedicated website featuring detailed descriptions for every character—making it enjoyable even just to browse and read about lesser-known supporting roles. The official X account will announce links when they become available, so fans should keep an eye out.

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The show also featured behind-the-scenes stories from “Yakuza 4,” along with a retrospective on Tokyo Game Show 2025. New merchandise details were shared as well, so those interested should check out the program’s archive.

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Official “Yakuza” Portal Site