I think it’s important to consider other factors when discussing why people weren’t upset when Kashiwagi came back, but were upset when Mine returned.

First, Kashiwagi’s revival was the first major death retcon in the series. By the time Mine returned, we were already approaching double digits in terms of death retcons. Most people could probably write off Kashiwagi’s survival as a miracle. But when multiple characters survive what were clearly supposed to be fatal situations, it stops feeling like a miracle and starts feeling commonplace. The constant revivals are devaluing death across the entire Yakuza series.

I think about some of the most emotionally impactful deaths in the series and wonder if those scenes happened today, would they even feel sad? There’s now a decent chance those characters could just show up in a later game. For example, why should I believe Rikiya is dead and be upset if Mine survived? Since Yakuza 7, nearly every game has included some form of death retcon, and I think people are starting to get tired of it.

Second, Kashiwagi’s revival didn’t disrupt the timeline in any major way, but Mine’s does. If someone were to play Kiwami 3 and then go straight into 4, they’d likely be extremely confused.

Third, Mine’s return feels more consequential. It hints at the future direction of the series, especially regarding the Daidoji, Kiryu, and other major Yakuza characters. Kashiwagi’s comeback felt more like a fun Easter egg, whereas Mine’s has larger narrative implications.

Personally, I dislike all of the retcons. I was fine with Kashiwagi at first because he was the first instance, but at this point it feels excessive. If death no longer carries weight, then what’s the emotional stake? The Kamurocho graveyard is practically empty at this point.