The latest issue of Japan’s Famitsu magazine has revealed that Sega is in the process of developing a brand new entry in the Yakuza series for Sony’s PlayStation 3 console.

This latest instalment in the popular adventure series will be an actual sequel to Yakuza 2, confirming that the prequel, Ryu ga Gotoku Kenzan – which hit Japan earlier this year – is in fact more of a spin off than an actual continuation of the franchise.

According to producer Toshihiro Nagoshi, Yakuza 3 will take place approximately two years after its predecessor, and once again features series veteran, Kazuma Kiryu, along with a host of other returning faces from past titles.

In terms of locations, Nagoshi divulged that the game would be set in the area of Okinawa, though the setting of Kamiyacho (as depicted in Yakuza 2) will still play an important role in the game. As with previous instalments, Yakuza 3 will sport a famous voice cast and will also accommodate various real word brands for use with various in-game signs and shops.

Though a release date has yet to be announced, Nagoshi said that development of the title began as soon as work on Kenzan had wrapped, with Sega having already planned an extensive marketing push, including the launch of the game's official website in the near future.

Stay tuned for further information as it becomes available.

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