Yakuza: Like a Dragon - A Hilariously Heartfelt Journey Through Japan's Underworld!

Yakuza: Like a Dragon marks a bold departure for the long-standing Yakuza franchise, trading its signature beat-’em-up action for a surprisingly effective turn-based RPG system. Released in 2020, this seventh mainline entry follows Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza who is betrayed and left for dead after serving an 18-year prison sentence. Upon his release into a vastly changed Kamurocho, the heart of Tokyo’s red light district, Ichiban seeks to uncover the truth behind his betrayal while navigating the treacherous underbelly of Japan’s criminal underworld.

A Fresh Take on Familiar Themes

While Like a Dragon introduces new gameplay mechanics, it retains the core themes that have made the Yakuza series so beloved: loyalty, family, redemption, and the complexities of moral gray areas. Ichiban, unlike his predecessors Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima, is an idealistic and naive protagonist who approaches the world with wide-eyed optimism, often finding humor even in the direst situations.

This fresh perspective adds a layer of whimsicality to the otherwise gritty narrative. Ichiban’s unwavering belief in justice and his desire to help those in need make him a surprisingly relatable and endearing hero, despite his involvement in criminal activities.

Turn-Based Mayhem with a Side of Heart

The shift to turn-based combat initially raised eyebrows among longtime fans, but the developers expertly integrated this new system into the Yakuza universe. Battles take place on dynamic, colorful battlefields that reflect the urban environments of Yokohama and Kamurocho.

Ichiban and his party, comprised of a quirky cast of allies like the former hostess Nanba and the homeless ex-detective Zhao, utilize unique fighting styles inspired by classic RPG archetypes.

• Ichiban: The protagonist embodies a “Hero” class with balanced attack, defense, and healing abilities.
• Nanba: This formidable fighter channels her inner “Hostess” using powerful debuffs and crowd control techniques.
• Zhao: The enigmatic detective acts as the group’s “Detective” archetype, excelling in ranged attacks and uncovering enemy weaknesses.

The turn-based system encourages strategic planning and thoughtful execution of skills. Utilizing different attack types, exploiting elemental weaknesses, and strategically positioning party members become crucial for success.

Like a Dragon incorporates minigames and side activities that are staples of the series: karaoke, arcade games, mahjong, and even batting cages remain entertaining distractions from the main storyline.

A Visual Feast with Heartwarming Humor

The game boasts stunning graphics that faithfully recreate the bustling streets of Yokohama and Kamurocho. From neon-lit alleyways to traditional Japanese gardens, every environment is rich in detail and atmosphere. The character models are expressive and well-designed, capturing the essence of each unique personality.

Beyond its impressive visuals, Like a Dragon shines through its clever writing and surprisingly heartwarming humor. Ichiban’s unyielding optimism and his penchant for quirky commentary add levity to even the most tense situations. The game doesn’t shy away from exploring serious themes like betrayal, loss, and redemption, but it does so with a lighthearted touch that makes it accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.

A Game That Transcends Expectations

Yakuza: Like a Dragon is more than just a traditional RPG; it’s a captivating story of second chances, unlikely friendships, and the enduring power of hope.

Its bold departure from the series’ established formula, combined with its engaging characters, heartfelt narrative, and addictive gameplay, makes it an essential experience for RPG fans and newcomers alike.