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 Yakuza 3 (2009). This decision, revealed by executive producer Erik Barmack, has sparked debate among fans.

While Barmack acknowledges the minigame's popularity—including the meme-worthy "Baka Mitai" song—he cites the challenge of condensing the expansive game's 20+ hours of content into a six-episode series. He hints at the possibility of karaoke's inclusion in future seasons, especially considering lead actor Ryoma Takeuchi's fondness for karaoke.

The absence of karaoke has raised concerns that the series might prioritize a serious tone over the comedic elements and quirky side stories that define the Yakuza games. This highlights the inherent tension in adapting beloved games: balancing fan expectations with the creative vision of the adaptation team. The success of Prime Video's Fallout series, praised for its faithfulness, contrasts with the criticism levied against Netflix's Resident Evil adaptation for straying too far from its source material.

RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama described the series as a "bold adaptation," aiming for a fresh experience rather than a simple rehash. He assures fans that the series will retain elements of the game's quirky charm, promising moments that will leave viewers smiling.

The omission of karaoke, while potentially disappointing to some, might ultimately serve the narrative focus of this initial adaptation. The success of this first season could pave the way for future installments that explore the more lighthearted aspects of the Yakuza universe, perhaps even featuring Kazuma Kiryu's legendary karaoke performances.