Yo-Ho-Who! Yakuza: Like a Dragon Takes You on a Wild Turn-Based Adventure!

Yo-Ho-Who! Yakuza: Like a Dragon Takes You on a Wild Turn-Based Adventure!

Prepare to say goodbye to beat-’em-up brawls and hello to dragon punches – and not the kind Bruce Lee perfected. “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is a revolutionary entry in the long-running “Yakuza” series, ditching its signature real-time combat for a captivating turn-based RPG system that feels both fresh and faithful to the franchise’s DNA. This bold shift opens up a world of tactical possibilities, allowing players to utilize unique Job classes with wacky abilities like breakdancing and summoning giant lobsters!

A Dragon Reborn: Ichiban Kasuga’s Quest for Redemption

The story follows Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who gets betrayed by his own clan after 18 years of imprisonment. Returning to Kamurocho, the neon-drenched heart of Tokyo’s underworld, he quickly realizes his former life is gone and must embark on a journey of self-discovery while unraveling a web of conspiracies.

Ichiban is no stoic Kiryu Kazuma (the protagonist of previous “Yakuza” titles). He’s an earnest optimist with a penchant for heroics and an unyielding belief in justice, even if his methods are unorthodox. He stumbles through life with a childlike wonder, constantly seeking meaning in the world and finding unlikely allies along the way.

Kamurocho: A Playground of Excess and Intrigue

The vibrant streets of Kamurocho serve as a sprawling playground for exploration and discovery. Iconic landmarks like the Club Sega arcade and the Millennium Tower make their return, while new districts offer unique sights and experiences.

But don’t let the bright lights fool you; Kamurocho is still a hotbed of criminal activity. Side quests involving everything from drunken karaoke contests to tracking down lost pets delve into the quirky underbelly of Japanese society.

Turn-Based Tactics with a Yakuza Twist

The most significant change in “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is its adoption of a turn-based RPG system reminiscent of classic JRPGs like “Dragon Quest.”

Players assemble a party of colorful characters, each with their own unique skills and personalities. Ichiban can take on various Jobs, transforming into classes like the Boxer (focusing on close-range attacks), the Idol (utilizing crowd-pleasing abilities), or even the Loan Shark (exploiting financial prowess in battle).

Combat unfolds strategically on a grid-based battlefield, requiring players to carefully consider enemy weaknesses, elemental affinities, and character positioning. You can unleash devastating combo attacks by chaining together your party members’ skills, creating explosive tactical symphonies that leave enemies begging for mercy.

The Essence of Yakuza: Storytelling, Humor, and Heart

Beyond the innovative combat system, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” retains the core elements that have made the series so beloved. It boasts a rich narrative filled with compelling characters, unexpected plot twists, and moments of genuine emotion. The game’s signature blend of humor and drama shines through in its side stories, offering hilarious encounters and heartwarming tales of human connection.

Production Features That Shine: From Music to Mini-Games

“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” delivers on all fronts with high-quality production values:

  • Sound Design: The soundtrack blends Japanese pop, rock, and traditional music to create an immersive and memorable soundscape.

  • Voice Acting: The English voice cast brings the characters to life with impressive performances that capture their individual personalities.

  • Mini-Games Galore: From managing your own cabaret club to running a ramen stall, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is packed with addictive mini-games that provide hours of entertainment outside of the main story.

  • Detailed World: Kamurocho and its surrounding areas are rendered in stunning detail, making exploration a delight.

Is Yakuza: Like a Dragon for You?

If you’re looking for a fresh take on the “Yakuza” series or simply crave a captivating RPG experience with a unique flavor, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is a must-play. Its blend of engaging combat, heartfelt storytelling, and eccentric charm will leave a lasting impression. Even if you’ve never ventured into the world of “Yakuza” before, this entry point offers a compelling starting point for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Table: Comparing Yakuza: Like a Dragon with Previous Entries

Feature Yakuza: Like a Dragon Classic Yakuza Games
Combat System Turn-Based RPG Real-Time Action
Protagonist Ichiban Kasuga Kazuma Kiryu (mainly)
Setting Kamurocho and New Locations Varied Locations Throughout Japan
Story Focus Redemption, Self-Discovery Yakuza Loyalty, Morality
Minigames More Diverse and Extensive Focused on Arcade Games, Karaoke