The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the Yakuza series, Like a Dragon, will notably omit the beloved karaoke minigame, a staple of the franchise since its introduction in Yakuza 3 in 2009. This decision, revealed by executive producer Erik Barmack, has sparked a mixed reaction among fans.

Barmack explained that condensing the extensive source material (a game spanning over 20 hours) into a six-episode series necessitates prioritization. While karaoke is currently excluded, he hinted at its potential inclusion in future seasons, especially considering lead actor Ryoma Takeuchi's fondness for karaoke. The absence of this iconic element, including the famous "Baka Mitai" song, may disappoint some fans, but the limited episode count likely necessitates focusing on the core narrative.

The omission has raised concerns about the series' overall tone. Fans worry that a strictly serious approach might neglect the comedic elements and quirky side stories that define the Yakuza games. This concern highlights the inherent challenge of adapting beloved games, balancing fan expectations with the need for a cohesive narrative within a shorter format. The success of Fallout's adaptation on Prime Video, praised for its faithfulness, contrasts with the negative reception of Netflix's Resident Evil series, criticized for its deviation from the source material.

RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama described the series as a "bold adaptation," aiming for a fresh experience rather than a simple recreation. His assurance that viewers will find elements to keep them "grinning" suggests that the series, while omitting karaoke, might still retain some of the franchise's signature humor and charm. The full extent of this remains to be seen.