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Toshihiro Nagoshi

Yakuza's creator

Toshihiro Nagoshi created the Yakuza series and led Sega's Amusement Vision division, developing distinctive Japanese games that found global audiences.

arcadeDreamcastplaystation-2playstation-4 designerproducersega 1989–2021

Overview

From Daytona to the dragon of Dojima. Nagoshi worked on Sega’s arcade classics before creating Yakuza—a crime drama that blended brawling, minigames, and melodrama. The series’ success came slowly in the West but eventually found devoted fans. After three decades at Sega, he departed in 2021 to form NetEase Games studio.

Fast facts

  • Born: 1965.
  • Company: Sega (1989-2021), NetEase (2021-).
  • Notable creation: Yakuza series.
  • Division: Amusement Vision, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio.

Arcade contributions

TitleRole
Daytona USADirector
Sega RallyProducer
F-Zero GXExecutive producer

Yakuza series

TitleYear
Yakuza2005
Yakuza 22006
Through Yakuza 6Series lead
Like a DragonContinued success

Design philosophy

PrincipleImplementation
Japanese identityAuthentic settings
Tone mixingDrama and absurdity
Side contentExtensive minigames
SerialisationOngoing narrative

Legacy

AchievementNote
Yakuza successGlobal franchise
Sega tenure30+ years
Cultural authenticityJapan representation
DepartureNetEase leadership

See also