
Forget everything you think you know about Yakuza games – Yakuza: Like a Dragon ditches the familiar brawling action for something entirely new: turn-based RPG combat. It’s a bold move that pays off spectacularly, resulting in a hilarious, heartwarming, and genuinely unique experience that’ll have you chuckling and fist-pumping in equal measure.
This installment marks a fresh start for the Yakuza franchise, introducing Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza who gets framed for a crime he didn’t commit and spends 18 years behind bars. Upon release, he finds his old clan has been swallowed whole by a ruthless organization, leaving him adrift in Yokohama’s bustling streets with nowhere to go.
Driven by a desire for revenge and a deep-seated sense of loyalty, Ichiban sets out on a quest to uncover the truth about his past and reclaim what was stolen from him. Along the way, he gathers a ragtag crew of allies – each with their own unique quirks, backstories, and combat styles – who become as much family as they are fighting companions.
Navigating Yokohama’s Vibrant World:
Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, serves as the sprawling playground for Like a Dragon. From the neon-lit entertainment district of Kamurocho to the quaint seaside streets of Isezaki Ijincho, the city bursts with life and personality.
You can indulge in a dizzying array of side activities, ranging from karaoke battles and retro arcade gaming to running your own cabaret club or mastering the art of “dragon cart racing”. The game meticulously recreates the sights, sounds, and flavors of Japanese culture, making exploration a constant delight.
- Delicious Distractions:
Activity | Description | Rewards |
---|---|---|
Karaoke | Belt out classic tunes and impress the crowd | Experience points, friendship boosts |
Go-Kart Racing | Speed through Yokohama’s streets in a go-kart | Exclusive kart parts, bragging rights |
- Combat Choreography: A Turn-Based Symphony
Like a Dragon’s combat system is as unconventional as it is entertaining. Instead of brawling like its predecessors, Ichiban and his companions engage in turn-based battles that feel remarkably strategic and engaging.
You’ll carefully select actions for each character, utilizing their unique skills and exploiting enemy weaknesses. The game embraces classic RPG mechanics, allowing you to level up your characters, learn new abilities, and equip them with powerful gear.
The real charm lies in the over-the-top theatrics and visual flair that accompany each attack.
Imagine Ichiban summoning a mythical dragon from the heavens to unleash a devastating firestorm or his quirky sidekick, Nanba, wielding a frying pan like a master chef preparing a culinary knockout blow.
Beneath the Humor: A Story of Redemption and Family:
While Like a Dragon brims with wacky humor and over-the-top antics, it also explores poignant themes of redemption, loyalty, and the power of human connection.
Ichiban’s journey is not just about seeking revenge; it’s about finding his place in the world after years of being imprisoned. He struggles with guilt over his past mistakes and grapples with the complexities of morality within a society that often operates on blurred lines.
The game expertly weaves these mature themes into its lighthearted narrative, creating a balanced experience that resonates emotionally without sacrificing its inherent fun factor.
A Genre-Bending Delight for RPG Fans:
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is more than just a radical departure for the Yakuza series; it’s a fresh and inventive take on the JRPG genre as a whole. Its captivating story, memorable characters, and refreshingly strategic combat system make it an absolute must-play for any fan of RPGs or those seeking a unique and unforgettable gaming experience.
If you’re looking for a game that defies expectations and delivers a truly exceptional adventure, then Yakuza: Like a Dragon is ready to unleash its chaos upon you.