An ongoing uproar surrounds the recasting of Goh Hamazaki in “Yakuza Kiwami 3.” This remake of the original PS3 game recently stirred controversy after SEGA released a new trailer showcasing the Japanese voice cast. The character, once voiced by a different actor, is now played by Teruyuki Kagawa, who also portrays the character’s likeness.
The issue goes beyond mere change. In 2019, Kagawa faced accusations of sexual harassment from two women. Last year, he publicly admitted to misconduct against one of them, a revelation that has ignited fans’ outrage. Images of Kagawa in compromising situations surfaced online, amplifying discontent.
Fans quickly united under the hashtag #REMOVEKAGAWA across social media, expressing their dissatisfaction. Comments on YouTube are flooded with this message, targeting both SEGA and RGG Studio for choosing Kagawa.
Interestingly, during a SEGA livestream earlier this month focusing on “Kiwami 3” gameplay, the live chat was overwhelmed with comments demanding Kagawa’s removal. Yet, the company did not address the backlash.
Supporters of the Yakuza franchise argue that the series has often criticized sexual harassment. Having Kagawa associated with the game contradicts its values. As the release date of February 12 approaches, the calls for action grow louder, leaving many to wonder if SEGA will respond.
This situation parallels other controversies in the gaming industry, where public sentiment can significantly impact decisions. For instance, the backlash against questionable casting choices isn’t new, as seen in similar instances in other games and films.
In a recent survey conducted by Game Industry Insights, 65% of gamers expressed that a developer’s handling of social issues affects their purchasing decisions. This statistic highlights how crucial it is for companies to listen to their audience.
As debates around representation and accountability continue, the future of “Yakuza Kiwami 3” hangs in the balance. What happens next could set a precedent for how the gaming industry responds to fan concerns. The hope remains that SEGA will take notice before it’s too late.
Source link
SEGA, PS5, PS4, Yakuza, Trailers
