Yakuza: Like a Dragon - A Whimsical Journey Through Kamurocho's Underworld!
Prepare to be whisked away on a ludicrous yet endearing adventure through the neon-drenched streets of Kamurocho, Japan’s fictional entertainment district brimming with yakuza intrigue and heartwarming absurdity. Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the seventh mainline entry in the acclaimed Yakuza series, throws tradition out the window, swapping the familiar beat-’em-up combat for an innovative turn-based RPG system, while retaining the franchise’s trademark blend of gritty drama, outrageous humor, and genuinely touching character moments.
The story centers on Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking member of the Arakawa Family who blindly serves his patriarch until he is framed for a crime and imprisoned for 18 years. Upon release, Ichiban finds Kamurocho dramatically transformed, and his former family has turned their back on him. Determined to unravel the conspiracy that led to his imprisonment and reclaim his place in the underworld, Ichiban forms an unlikely alliance with a quirky group of individuals he encounters along his journey.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s narrative excels at balancing gritty realism with absurdist humor. One moment you’re witnessing intense yakuza power struggles and betrayals, while the next you’re navigating side quests involving ludicrous scenarios like helping a salaryman recover from a crippling addiction to “Pocket Circuit” racing or participating in karaoke battles against rival gangs.
The Unconventional Heroes of Kamurocho Ichiban Kasuga, with his unwavering optimism and childlike naivety, serves as the perfect protagonist for this RPG odyssey. Unlike the stoic Kazuma Kiryu from previous Yakuza games, Ichiban’s personality shines through in every interaction.
His companions are equally unforgettable:
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Nanba | A former yakuza with a penchant for bizarre conspiracy theories |
| Adachi | A homeless man grappling with alcohol addiction and a surprisingly insightful worldview |
| Saeko Mukoda | A skilled hostess striving to reclaim her agency and overcome the exploitative nature of her profession |
Turn-Based Combat: A Refreshing Twist While deviating from the series’ established combat formula, Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s turn-based system retains the franchise’s signature over-the-top flair. Battles unfold on dynamic grids with stylized visuals, emphasizing strategic positioning and exploiting enemy weaknesses.
Yakuza veterans will appreciate the familiar “Heat Actions,” now reimagined as powerful skills triggered by specific combat scenarios. Ichiban and his companions can unleash devastating attacks like “Suplex Slam” or “Kiwami Strike,” adding a layer of cinematic spectacle to each encounter.
Beyond the Streets: Exploring Kamurocho and Yokohama Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s open-world environments offer a wealth of activities and distractions. Explore the neon-lit streets of Kamurocho, delve into the vibrant nightlife scene in Yokohama’s Chinatown district, or indulge in classic mini-games like karaoke, batting cages, and arcade classics.
Production Values That Shine Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (formerly Amusement Vision), Yakuza: Like a Dragon showcases the studio’s signature attention to detail. From the meticulously crafted character models to the vibrant urban landscapes teeming with life, the game exudes a polish that rivals AAA titles.
The soundtrack seamlessly blends traditional Japanese melodies with upbeat J-pop and rock tracks, perfectly capturing the eclectic atmosphere of Kamurocho. Voice acting in both Japanese and English adds further depth and nuance to the characters’ personalities.
Final Verdict: A Dragon Worth Riding!
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a triumphant reinvention of the Yakuza franchise. Its charming protagonist, eccentric cast, and inventive turn-based combat system make for an unforgettable RPG experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer seeking a unique blend of storytelling, humor, and action, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a must-play adventure that will stay with you long after the credits roll.