Yakuza: Like a Dragon - Embark on a Hilarious Journey Through Kamurocho's Underbelly!

The Yakuza franchise is renowned for its blend of hard-hitting action, compelling narratives, and uniquely Japanese flavour. Departing from the series’ traditional brawling gameplay, Yakuza: Like a Dragon takes a bold leap into turn-based RPG territory, delivering a fresh experience while retaining the franchise’s core essence.
A Dragon Reborn:
This seventh mainline installment introduces Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who gets betrayed and imprisoned for 18 years after taking the fall for a crime he didn’t commit. Upon release into a rapidly changing Kamurocho, he discovers his former family has been dismantled and his mentor murdered. Driven by vengeance and seeking the truth behind his betrayal, Ichiban embarks on a wild adventure filled with quirky characters, over-the-top combat, and surprisingly poignant moments.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s narrative weaves a complex tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. It delves into themes of social alienation, corporate greed, and the struggle to find one’s place in a society undergoing rapid transformation. Ichiban, with his unwavering optimism and infectious enthusiasm, serves as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness he encounters.
From Brawler to Tactician:
The transition to turn-based combat might seem jarring to long-time Yakuza fans, but it’s executed brilliantly. Battles unfold on a grid-like battlefield where you strategize and unleash devastating combos using Ichiban and his eclectic party members. Each character boasts unique abilities and “Jobs” – stylized classes reminiscent of classic RPG archetypes like the agile “Duelist,” the powerful “Brawler,” or the cunning “Trickster.”
Mastering the intricacies of Jobs, exploiting enemy weaknesses, and utilising environmental objects to your advantage are crucial for success. The combat system is surprisingly deep, offering a satisfying blend of strategic thinking and action-packed spectacle.
Kamurocho Reimagined:
Yakuza: Like a Dragon retains the iconic setting of Kamurocho, but with noticeable changes reflecting the passage of time. New locations have been added, while familiar landmarks have undergone transformations. The game captures the vibrant energy of this entertainment district, from the neon-lit arcades and karaoke bars to the bustling streets teeming with pedestrians and quirky side quests.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s presentation is top-notch. The character models are incredibly detailed and expressive, capturing the distinct personalities of each individual. The voice acting, both in Japanese and English, is superb, bringing the story and characters to life with authenticity.
Beyond the Battlefield:
Outside of combat, Yakuza: Like a Dragon offers a wealth of content to keep players entertained for hours on end.
Activity | Description |
---|---|
Substories | Side quests filled with humour and heart, often involving eccentric characters. |
Mini-Games | Karaoke, darts, mahjong, batting cages – Kamurocho has it all! |
Business Management | Take over and grow Ichiban’s own ramen shop for extra rewards. |
Friendship Links | Develop bonds with party members through dialogue choices and shared experiences, unlocking new abilities and insights. |
The Yakuza series is known for its side content, and Like a Dragon continues this tradition with gusto.
A Triumphant Reinvention:
Yakuza: Like a Dragon succeeds in reinventing the franchise while staying true to its core values. The shift to turn-based combat adds a layer of strategic depth, the story is as engaging as ever, and the world of Kamurocho remains a vibrant playground for exploration. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer curious about this beloved series, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is an adventure worth experiencing.