
Prepare yourself for a wild ride through the neon-soaked streets of Yokohama, Japan, with Yakuza: Like a Dragon. This installment in the long-running Yakuza series ditches the franchise’s traditional brawling combat for a surprisingly deep and engaging turn-based RPG system. While still retaining the series’ signature blend of gritty crime drama and heartwarming humor, Like a Dragon introduces a fresh protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, an ex-yakuza who embarks on a quest for redemption after being betrayed by his own clan.
From Streets to Dungeons: The Intriguing Story of Ichiban Kasuga
Ichiban Kasuga begins his journey as a loyal lieutenant within the Tojo Clan, Yokohama’s dominant yakuza family. After serving an 18-year prison sentence for a crime he didn’t commit, Kasuga returns to find himself cast aside and betrayed by the very people he swore allegiance to. Seeking answers and justice, Kasuga embarks on a quest that leads him through Yokohama’s vibrant underworld, encountering a colorful cast of characters who become his unlikely allies.
The narrative dives deep into themes of loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and the complex societal structures surrounding Japan’s yakuza. Along the way, Kasuga encounters homeless veterans, quirky cabaret singers, and even former rival gang members, forming unique bonds with each individual he meets. The story seamlessly blends moments of intense drama with unexpected bursts of comedy, creating a truly captivating experience that keeps players invested from beginning to end.
The Power of Friendship: Building Your Party and Mastering the Turn-Based System
Yakuza: Like a Dragon introduces a unique party system where Kasuga recruits allies who possess distinct personalities, skills, and combat abilities. Each character boasts their own “Job” class, akin to traditional RPG archetypes like the Healer, Tank, or Mage. However, Like a Dragon throws in some hilarious twists with unconventional jobs like the “Host,” “Chef,” or even the “Fortune Teller.”
The turn-based battle system revolves around strategic positioning and exploiting enemy weaknesses. Each character possesses a set of unique skills and abilities that can be unleashed during their turn. Mastering this system requires careful planning and consideration of each character’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing for diverse tactical approaches.
| Character | Job | Skills |
|—|—|—| | Ichiban Kasuga | Hero | Fist attacks, Powerful finishing moves | | Nanba | Boxer | Powerful physical attacks, Taunt skills | | Adachi | Hitman | Ranged attacks with guns, Critical Strike abilities | | Zhao | Hostess | Support and healing skills, Debuffing enemies |
Beyond the Battles: A World Rich with Activities and Exploration
Yokohama is more than just a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing world brimming with activities. From karaoke bars where you can belt out your favorite tunes (with hilarious results) to batting cages for honing your swing, Like a Dragon offers a plethora of minigames and side quests to keep players entertained outside of the main story.
One standout feature is the “Management” minigame where Kasuga opens and runs his own ramen restaurant. Here, you must manage ingredients, staff, and customer satisfaction to build a thriving business. This engaging addition adds a layer of strategic depth and offers a welcome break from the intensity of combat.
A Visual Treat: Immersive Environments and Dynamic Character Designs
Yakuza: Like a Dragon boasts stunning visuals that capture the vibrant energy of Yokohama’s urban landscape. From the neon-drenched alleys of Kamurocho to the tranquil gardens of Chinatown, each environment is meticulously crafted with an attention to detail that immerses players in the world. The character designs are equally impressive, conveying the personalities and quirks of each individual through distinctive clothing, hairstyles, and facial expressions.
The game features a dynamic soundtrack that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese music with modern rock and hip-hop influences, perfectly complementing the on-screen action and adding another layer to the immersive experience.
Embrace the Unexpected: A Refreshing Take on the Yakuza Formula
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is not simply a departure from the series’ norm; it’s a bold reinvention that revitalizes the franchise with fresh gameplay mechanics and a captivating narrative. Whether you’re a seasoned Yakuza veteran or a newcomer to the world of Japanese crime dramas, Like a Dragon offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more. So, embrace the unexpected, delve into the quirky underworld of Yokohama, and prepare for a wild ride!