Yakuza 2 Arrives In U.S. Stores Today

While October sports the likes of LittleBigPlanet , Far Cry 2 , Dead Space , and the PS3 version of Bioshock , September is looking a little thin. Star Wars: The Force Unleashed may not be for everyone, but perhaps we should look back a generation to find a worthwhile title…and a new title at that.

Today, Sega has announced that Yakuza 2 for the PS2 will be in stores throughout North America. The Japanese have had this sequel for quite a while (hell, they're anticipating Yakuza 3 by now), but we Americans have gone without since the original arrived back in 2006. But we have to remember that Yakuza was a very solid action game that featured a surprisingly gritty and effective story to go along with an entertaining fighting mechanic. It reminded us of a darker, more enhanced version of Fighting Force , with extra freedom as we wandered the city. Here's part of the press release to get you excited for this sequel:

"Yakuza 2 delivers stylish gameplay with its improved fighting engine and a new cinematic storyline that will plunge players further into the gritty, genuine portrayal of life in the Yakuza. The game expands the world of the Yakuza with two cities for players to freely explore – from urban nightclubs to actual licensed shops and restaurants. Players will experience twice the brutality by executing fierce, jaw-breaking attacks on enemies with the enhanced Heat Gauge. Yakuza 2 accurately depicts Japan’s urban landscape to give players an authentic experience as a high-ranking member of the Yakuza clan."

Don't forget; the PS2 is still going strong, despite the lack of top-end titles lately. Yakuza 2 could be a hidden gem that too many next-gen gamers might miss, and we want to turn your attention to something that might be an excellent option this week.

Related Game(s): Yakuza 2