Yakuza: Like A Dragon - Embrace the RPG Renaissance with Turn-Based Mayhem!

Prepare yourselves, fellow gamers, for a seismic shift in the Yakuza universe! While past installments delighted us with their brawler action and gritty underworld tales, “Yakuza: Like A Dragon” throws a curveball of epic proportions – it’s an RPG!
Gone are the days of pummeling foes with fists and fury. In its place, we embrace a turn-based combat system, complete with fantastical abilities, job classes, and strategic depth that wouldn’t feel out of place in a classic JRPG. Fear not, however, for the heart and soul of Yakuza remain intact: the over-the-top humor, the touching stories of redemption, and the vibrant, neon-drenched streets of Yokohama are all present and accounted for.
A Dragon’s Journey Begins in Yokohama’s Underbelly
“Yakuza: Like A Dragon” introduces us to Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking member of the Arakawa Family yearning to prove his worth. After taking the fall for a crime he didn’t commit, Ichiban spends eighteen years languishing in prison. Upon release, he discovers a world drastically different from the one he left behind. The Arakawa Family has crumbled, and the person responsible for his imprisonment is nowhere to be found.
Betrayed and alone, Ichiban sets out on a quest for truth and justice. He stumbles upon a group of misfits and adventurers who become his unlikely comrades – a former police officer grappling with guilt, a homeless fortune teller with mystical abilities, a charismatic hostess longing for escape, and a stoic ex-yakuza seeking redemption. This motley crew becomes Ichiban’s “party,” and together they navigate the treacherous streets of Yokohama, battling rival gangs, corrupt corporations, and even mythical creatures in their pursuit of justice.
Turn-Based Tactics Meets Yakuza Flair: A Combat Revolution
The transition to a turn-based combat system is not just a gimmick; it fundamentally alters the way you experience “Yakuza: Like A Dragon.” Instead of button-mashing combos, you strategize your every move. Each character can learn and master various job classes, granting them unique skills and abilities.
Ichiban himself begins as a “Hero,” wielding powerful melee attacks and inspiring his comrades. He can later unlock classes like the “Breaker” for heavy-hitting damage or the “Host” for crowd control and support. Your party members are equally diverse, with their own unique skill sets and progression paths. For instance, Saeko Mukoda, the former hostess, thrives as a “Idol,” charming enemies and dealing massive critical hits, while Nanba, the homeless fortune teller, excels as a “Shaman,” wielding elemental magic and curses.
Combat encounters are a delightful blend of strategic depth and Yakuza’s signature absurdity. Picture this: Ichiban unleashing a fiery “Dragon Heat” attack while Saeko captivates enemies with her seductive dance moves, followed by Nanba summoning a barrage of mystic arrows. The battles are visually stunning, filled with flashy animations and over-the-top special effects that capture the essence of the Yakuza universe.
Exploring Yokohama: A Playground for Quirks and Chaos
“Yakuza: Like A Dragon” seamlessly blends its RPG mechanics with the open world exploration that Yakuza is renowned for. Yokohama, the bustling port city where the story unfolds, is a sprawling playground teeming with life and opportunities for mayhem.
You can wander through vibrant commercial districts, explore serene parks, visit quirky karaoke bars, or indulge in absurd minigames like managing a homeless shelter or mastering the art of kart racing (yes, really!). The open world is densely packed with side quests, optional challenges, and hidden secrets that add hours upon hours of entertainment.
Beyond its combat and exploration elements, “Yakuza: Like A Dragon” excels at delivering heartfelt storytelling. Ichiban’s journey of redemption is both inspiring and humorous, punctuated by touching moments of camaraderie and unexpected twists. The supporting cast is equally memorable, with their own intriguing backstories and personal struggles.
The Evolution of Yakuza: A Bold and Brilliant Gamble
“Yakuza: Like A Dragon” stands as a testament to the franchise’s willingness to embrace change and evolve while staying true to its core identity. This bold reinvention may surprise some longtime fans, but it ultimately delivers a fresh and exhilarating gaming experience. The turn-based combat system adds a layer of strategic depth, the open world exploration is as vibrant as ever, and the story remains captivating with its blend of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments.
Whether you’re a seasoned Yakuza veteran or a newcomer to the series, “Yakuza: Like A Dragon” is an adventure worth experiencing. So step into Ichiban Kasuga’s shoes, embrace the RPG revolution, and prepare for a wild ride through Yokohama’s vibrant underworld!