Former AEW World Champion Samoa Joe is set to appear in the upcoming video game Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, the latest entry in the long-running Yakuza franchise. This was revealed during the September 2024 RGG Summit, hosted by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and Sega.
The game, which focuses on series favorite Goro Majima battling pirates, has already generated excitement among fans. Some sharp-eyed viewers noticed Samoa Joe in the game’s trailer, where he appears as one of the villains. His involvement in the game adds to the anticipation surrounding its release.
The trailer showcases fast-paced action and pirate-themed battles, with the protagonist Goro Majima washing up on Rich Island in Hawaii. After engaging in combat with pirates, Majima eventually becomes captain of his own ship.
The plot will revolve around key characters Madlantis and Queen Michelle, introducing a new setting and storyline within the Yakuza universe.
Samoa Joe is in good company as a pro wrestler appearing in this gaming franchise. The Great Muta, Kazuchika Okada and Tetsuya Naito have appeared in prior installments. Joe has a history of voice acting in video games, most notably portraying King Shark in Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.
His most recent AEW match took place in July 2024, when he faced Chris Jericho in a Stampede Street Fight on AEW Dynamite. Outside of wrestling, Joe has been part of the production for the upcoming season of Twisted Metal, where he’ll reprise his role as Sweet Tooth.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, and will be available on all major gaming consoles and PC.
