Baka Mitai! Like a Dragon: Yakuza Live-Action Series Won’t Have Karaoke

The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the Yakuza series, Like a Dragon, will notably omit the beloved karaoke minigame, a decision that has sparked a mixed reaction among fans. Executive producer Erik Barmack explained in a recent interview that the omission is due to the constraints of a six-episode series and the vast amount of source material to cover. However, he left the door open for the inclusion of karaoke in future seasons, especially given the lead actor, Ryoma Takeuchi (portraying Kazuma Kiryu), is a frequent karaoke enthusiast.

The karaoke minigame, a franchise staple since its introduction in Yakuza 3 in 2009, and famously featuring the meme-worthy song "Baka Mitai," is a significant element of the game's charm. Its absence in the initial season raises concerns among fans that the series might prioritize a serious tone over the comedic and quirky aspects that define the Yakuza games.

The success of other video game adaptations, such as Prime Video's faithful Fallout series (65 million viewers in two weeks), stands in contrast to the negative reception of Netflix's Resident Evil (2022), highlighting the importance of staying true to the source material while still creating a compelling narrative. RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama described the series as a "bold adaptation," aiming for a fresh experience rather than a simple rehash. He hinted that the series will retain some of the franchise's quirky humor, promising viewers will find themselves "grinning the whole time."

While the lack of karaoke in the first season is a disappointment for some, the possibility of its inclusion in future seasons, coupled with the promise of a faithful yet innovative adaptation, keeps hope alive for a successful and enjoyable series. The initial six episodes will focus on the core narrative, but the potential for future expansion leaves the door open for beloved elements like karaoke to return.