Yakuza: Like A Dragon! An Unexpected Turn-Based Delight?
Prepare yourself for an unexpected journey into the heart of Japan’s criminal underworld with a twist – turn-based combat! Yes, you read that right. Yakuza: Like a Dragon boldly ditches the series’ familiar real-time brawling for a tactical, RPG-inspired system that breathes fresh life into the beloved franchise. While some purists may raise an eyebrow at this departure, Like a Dragon proves to be a surprisingly engaging and ultimately satisfying experience.
The story follows Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who serves an 18-year prison sentence for a crime he didn’t commit. Upon his release, he finds his beloved clan has been dismantled and replaced by a treacherous new faction. Betrayed and seeking answers, Ichiban embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind his imprisonment and reclaim what was stolen from him.
Like a Dragon’s narrative masterfully blends classic yakuza themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption with social commentary on modern-day Japan. The game tackles issues like poverty, inequality, and the struggles of marginalized communities, all while maintaining a playful sense of humor and heartfelt character interactions.
A Familiar World Reimagined: Setting and Atmosphere
The vibrant cityscape of Yokohama serves as the backdrop for Ichiban’s adventure. From bustling commercial districts to seedy back alleys, Like a Dragon captures the energy and diversity of this iconic Japanese city. Familiar Yakuza locales like karaoke bars, pachinko parlors, and hostess clubs make a return, providing opportunities for side quests, minigames, and even some romantic encounters.
The game’s atmosphere is both gritty and heartwarming, contrasting the harsh realities of yakuza life with moments of genuine camaraderie and kindness. Like a Dragon’s soundtrack seamlessly blends traditional Japanese melodies with upbeat J-pop tunes, perfectly complementing the dynamic narrative and immersive world.
Turn-Based Tactics: A New Era for Yakuza Combat
The shift to turn-based combat in Like a Dragon is a bold move that pays off handsomely. Players assemble a party of four characters, each with unique abilities and job classes inspired by classic RPG tropes like the Warrior, the Magician, and the Brawler.
Battles unfold on a grid-based map, allowing for strategic positioning and tactical maneuvering. Utilizing “Job” skills specific to each character class adds another layer of depth, requiring players to carefully select party compositions and develop synergistic combinations to overcome challenging encounters. The game features an extensive skill tree system, allowing players to customize their characters’ abilities and unlock powerful new moves.
Beyond its innovative combat system, Like a Dragon retains the series’ signature blend of over-the-top action and humor. Expect wild cinematic attacks, quirky character interactions, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments during battle.
A Rich Tapestry: Exploring Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s Features
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s appeal extends beyond its captivating narrative and innovative combat system. The game offers a wealth of content to explore, from engaging side quests and hilarious minigames to meaningful character relationships and hidden secrets scattered throughout Yokohama.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Side Quests | Like a Dragon features a plethora of side quests that delve deeper into the world and its inhabitants, offering unique rewards and opportunities to develop Ichiban’s bonds with his companions. |
| Minigames | From karaoke competitions and batting cages to go-kart racing and even managing your own ramen shop, Like a Dragon offers an abundance of entertaining minigames that provide welcome diversions from the main story. |
| Substories | These bite-sized narratives scattered throughout Yokohama reveal hidden stories and quirky characters, offering glimpses into the city’s vibrant underbelly and providing heartwarming moments of human connection. |
A Triumphant Evolution: Why Like a Dragon Stands Out
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is more than just a spinoff; it’s a testament to the series’ enduring appeal and its ability to evolve while staying true to its core values. The turn-based combat system adds a fresh layer of depth and strategy, while the compelling narrative, endearing characters, and vibrant setting continue to captivate players long after the credits roll.
Whether you’re a seasoned Yakuza veteran or a newcomer curious about the franchise, Like a Dragon offers an unforgettable experience that blends classic storytelling with innovative gameplay mechanics. Prepare yourself for a wild ride through the streets of Yokohama as Ichiban Kasuga fights for justice, redemption, and maybe even a bowl of delicious ramen along the way.