The Like a Dragon franchise is becoming a TV show, courtesy of Prime Video.
As shown by Diversity, a Japanese open-world series, has been adapted into a six-episode drama that will be released in October. The series will be directed by Take Masaharu and Takimoto Kenga, known respectively for We Make Antiques and Teacher Kamen.
Kamen Rider actor Takeuchi Ryoma will play series lead Kazuma Kira. The show will be split between 1995 and 2005.
Sega’s big transmedia dreams
Sega has previously mentioned its desire to create similar franchises and Persona transmedia giants on par with Sonic the Hedgehog. This marks the series’ first forays into this expansion since the 2007 live-action film directed by Takeshi Miike.
Video game adaptations have become more common, but the significance of this one is how Sega managed to keep the project a secret. Previously announced shows like God of war and Fall out were announced years before the premiere.
Ryu Ga Gotoku was released earlier this year Like a dragon: endless wealth. Action RPG sold 1 million copies on launch week and quickly became a franchise most popular entry on Steam.
Between this and the upcoming show, 2024 has been a big year for the franchise.
The first part of “Like a Dragon” will premiere on October 25th on Prime Video, and the second part will be released next week on November 1st.