SEGA of America sends word that Yakuza 2 has shipped for the Playstation 2 in North America.  They even sent along some new screenshots for you to check out.

SEGA of America, Inc. today announced that Yakuza 2 the thrilling action-adventure game for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system is shipping to retailers across North America. From the creative minds that brought the critically acclaimed Yakuza, famed producer Toshihiro Nagoshi and award-winning novelist Seishu Hase join forces again to draw players deeper into the notorious Japanese underground organization where honor and respect are regarded above all else.

The story takes place a year after Kazuma Kiryu leaves the life of the Yakuza and his post as Head of the Tojo Clan. However, his peaceful, normal life is short-lived when the threat of an all-out gang war pulls him back into the life he is trying to leave behind. The journey into Japan’s dark underworld continues as Kazuma returns to uphold his former clan’s honor and to discover the mystery behind the endless conflicts that is pushing the Yakuza clan to the brink of war, all while trying to avoid the police and the Korean Mafia.

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.