Developers Defend Tupac's Role in Stranger Than Heaven Game

WHO:

Game Informer - Masayoshi Yokoyama, head of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio

Game Informer - Snoop Dogg, rapper and actor

Kotaku - Masayoshi Yokoyama, head of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio

Kotaku - Tupac Shakur, rapper who was murdered 30 years ago

Kotaku - Bunta Sugawara, Japanese actor whose likeness was used in a previous game

WHAT:

Game Informer - Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio announced the inclusion of Tupac Shakur in the upcoming game "Stranger Than Heaven."

Game Informer - The game is set to be released on January 15.

Kotaku - Yokoyama stated, “We think it’s something that will add value to the game we’re making.”

Kotaku - The development team received approval from Tupac's estate and family to use his likeness.

WHERE:

Game Informer - The game is developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for the Yakuza franchise.

WHEN:

Game Informer - "Stranger Than Heaven" is scheduled for release on January 15.

WHY:

Game Informer - The decision to include Tupac was inspired by Snoop Dogg's real-life relationships and the desire to create characters with meaningful connections.

Kotaku - Yokoyama acknowledged the backlash against the decision but stated, “Criticism is a freedom that people are free to have.”

HOW:

Game Informer - The studio negotiated with Tupac's family and estate to ensure respectful representation of his legacy.

Game Informer - The idea to include Tupac was developed through discussions with Snoop Dogg and the studio team.

(UPDATED June 11, 2026 19:55 UTC)

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has announced that the late rapper Tupac Shakur will be featured in their upcoming game "Stranger Than Heaven," which is set to be released on January 15. Masayoshi Yokoyama, the head of the studio, mentioned that the decision was inspired by Snoop Dogg's real-life relationships and aimed to create characters with meaningful connections, while also noting that they received approval from Tupac's estate and family for his likeness. Yokoyama acknowledged the criticism surrounding this choice but emphasized that it's important for people to express their opinions freely.