Yakuza 1 & 2 HD is an upcoming Wii U remake of the franchise’s first two installments that were originally released on the PlayStation 2. This marks the first time the series will be available on a non-Sony console. In addition to the upgraded graphics from the originals, Sega focused on utilizing the Wii U’s GamePad features.
Producer Mitsuhiro Shimano talks about this in in a Famitsu.com interview.
According to the producer, Sega have completely revamped the degree of difficulty of functions in Yakuza 1 & 2 HD. They’ve adjusted the playability to make them a little easier to understand so people can enjoy the entire game from start to end. Some people in the past weren’t able to complete the game due to it either being too difficult to play or understand, so Shimano believes that those players from the past will be able to come back, and finally complete the game while enjoying new features.
One of the smaller adjustments they’ve made were for the batting centers, which are now easier to play through. The map allows new players to know where they are and where to go at a glance.
The HD remake will also allow signboards to stand out a little more, making it easier to find certain areas. Additionally, the Easy + Heat Up mode will be available from the start. This feature allows for easier Heat Gauge build-up, for players who aren’t the best at action games.
While Sega have kept new players in mind for the upcoming HD remake, they haven’t forgotten about the fathers and gentlemen out there who’d like to have quality alone time with cabaret club hostesses (as seen in their silly video).
“Since the hardware is Wii U, there are plenty of adjustments made for you fathers out there,” says Shimano. “Yakuza is known for the cabaret clubs and massage sub-stories, which may get a little too hot for comfort if your child or even wife are around (laughs). For those situations, you can simply switch to the Wii U GamePad, and play it as a mobile game without worrying about those around you.”
He continued, “Also, the Wii U’s main characteristic is the GamePad, so we’ve included special functions just for it. For example, if you use the ‘Marker Placement’ feature indicated on the GamePad’s upper-right part of the screen, you can use a green marker and place it on the map. That way, if you mark areas of sub-stories, you’ll be able to find it right away if you haven’t played in a while. While you can only use one marker at a time, it’s very convenient to be able to use it at any time.”
Right underneath the Marker Placement button, is the “Complete Screen”. This logs everything from the foods you ate to the list of sub-stories you’ve completed. You can also check up on your current relationship development with your cabaret girls.
On the left part of the GamePad screen, is the Switch Mode button. This allows you to switch between the GamePad and television at anytime. Alternatively, when you switch it to “Map Mode” you’ll have access to the entire map on the GamePad.
Finally, Shimano shares a message for the fans:
“Of course, the Wii U Pro Controller will be supported, so you’ll be able to play whichever way you want. For you fathers out there who purchased a Wii U for your kids, please give Yakuza 1 & 2 HD a try. Again, Yakuza 3 and 4 have recently dropped in price, so it’d be a great opportunity to try it out. For those who’ve never played Yakuza, it would be my pleasure if you could use this occasion to be introduced to the Yakuza series.”
Yakuza 1 & 2 HD was released this week for the Wii U in Japan.
Published: Aug 9, 2013 11:30 am