Yakuza: Like a Dragon – A Hilarious Journey Through Kamurocho’s Underbelly

Yakuza: Like a Dragon – A Hilarious Journey Through Kamurocho’s Underbelly

Stepping away from the established beat-’em-up style of its predecessors, Yakuza: Like a Dragon boldly embraces the JRPG genre, delivering a unique and unforgettable experience steeped in the vibrant chaos of Kamurocho. This installment introduces Ichiban Kasuga, an earnest but hapless low-ranking yakuza who returns to his beloved Kamurocho after an 18-year prison sentence only to be betrayed by the very organization he served. Thrust into a world vastly different from the one he left behind, Ichiban embarks on a quest for truth and justice, navigating treacherous alleyways, battling eccentric foes, and forging unlikely alliances along the way.

A Familiar World with a Fresh Perspective

While Yakuza: Like a Dragon introduces a new protagonist and gameplay system, it retains the core essence that makes the Yakuza series so captivating. Kamurocho remains a bustling hub of activity, pulsating with neon lights, street vendors, karaoke bars, and hidden underground establishments. Familiar faces like Majima and Kiryu make cameo appearances, offering guidance and humor along Ichiban’s journey. The game seamlessly blends gritty realism with absurdist comedy, creating an experience that is simultaneously engaging and hilarious.

Embracing the Turn-Based Tango

The most significant departure from previous Yakuza titles is the adoption of a turn-based RPG combat system. Ichiban, inspired by his love for Dragon Quest, envisions battles as fantastical encounters reminiscent of classic JRPGs. He recruits party members with unique abilities and personalities, each contributing their own flair to the battlefield.

Party Member Role Abilities
Ichiban Kasuga Leader/All-rounder Variety of physical and magic attacks
Nanba Tank/Support Powerful defensive abilities, heals allies
Adachi Damage Dealer Strong single-target magical attacks
Saeko Mukoda Healer/Support Buffs allies, removes debuffs

Combat revolves around strategic positioning and utilizing each party member’s strengths effectively. Ichiban can switch between different “Jobs,” essentially character classes with unique skill sets and attack animations. From the brawling power of a “Brawler” to the agile finesse of a “Dancer,” the Job system allows for diverse combat approaches, catering to different playstyles.

A Story Overflowing with Heart and Humor

Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s narrative delves deeper into themes of betrayal, redemption, and the search for belonging. Ichiban’s unwavering optimism and earnestness contrast sharply with the harsh realities he encounters. He is driven by a deep sense of loyalty and a desire to make amends for his past mistakes.

The story unfolds through beautifully animated cutscenes and engaging dialogue sequences, showcasing the diverse cast of characters who populate Kamurocho. From the enigmatic detective, Eri Kamataki, to the eccentric former gangster, Joon-gi Han, each character brings their own unique quirks and motivations to the narrative tapestry.

A Visual Feast with a Jazzy Soundtrack

Yakuza: Like a Dragon features stunning graphics that capture the gritty charm of Kamurocho. From the neon-drenched streets to the intricate details of interior spaces, the game world is brought to life with meticulous detail. The soundtrack perfectly complements the gameplay experience, blending traditional Japanese melodies with upbeat jazz tunes and epic orchestral scores.

The voice acting is top-notch, capturing the distinct personalities of each character. The English dub adds a layer of accessibility for Western audiences without sacrificing the authenticity of the original Japanese script.

Is Yakuza: Like a Dragon a Worthy Entry in the Series?

Yakuza: Like a Dragon successfully reimagines the franchise while retaining its core essence. The turn-based combat system is surprisingly addictive, and the story is both heartwarming and hilarious. While it may initially seem jarring to longtime fans of the beat-’em-up style, Yakuza: Like a Dragon offers a fresh and unforgettable experience that stands out in the RPG genre.

This game is a testament to the creative vision of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, demonstrating their willingness to take risks and experiment with new ideas. It’s a must-play for fans of the Yakuza series and anyone looking for a JRPG with a unique setting and unforgettable characters.