I will admit I'm probably influenced coming off of remakes that have adopted QoL from later in the series, but Yakuza 3 is definitely underwhelming gameplay-wise at least compared to what I've experienced prior. Combat doesn't feel that interesting and the heat actions don't have as much cinematic flair. Enemies also block a lot, but that's okay, I can deal with it.

I didn't feel like the side diversions had much to offer here. There's some okay substories, with some highlights, but most of them didn't wow me. Some minigames like fishing especially turned me off because like, why are they like that? I've also had my fill of gorgeous girls.

I think the best part of this game for me was definitely the story. The beginning with Kiryu at the orphanage drags a bit, but I found myself really caring for the kids and the wholesome ways Kiryu interacts with them. Okinawa is a nice change of pace from the night-life of Kamurocho and Sotenbori. The new characters like Rikiya, the orphans, and the Ryudo Family were strong and I found them quite charming. Rikiya's death scene really got me, thanks in part to Kuroda's emotionally resonant performance. Mine was interesting enough and pretty intimidating, but I feel the heart of the story is definitely back in Okinawa. I appreciate the way they tied the game's themes into Kiryu's journey so far, from disgraced ex-Yakuza to orphanage caretaker turning over a new leaf. Having Mine as a reflection of how Kiryu could've turned out if he didn't trust others was nice. Joji Kazama was kind of stupid though not gonna lie. Kazama having a surpise identical brother he never talked about... like, really?

Overall, okay game. Underwhelming gameplay-wise, but the story is good and straightforward.