Yakuza: Like a Dragon - A Quirky Fusion of Turn-Based Combat and Japanese Crime Drama!

Venturing into the realm of role-playing games often leads you down well-trodden paths, filled with familiar fantasy tropes and sword-swinging heroes. But sometimes, a game comes along that throws convention out the window, embracing absurdity while still delivering a compelling story and unique gameplay experience. Enter Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the seventh mainline installment in the renowned Yakuza series. Prepare for a wild ride through the neon-drenched streets of Yokohama, where brawls are settled with baseball bats, karaoke is a national pastime, and justice comes with a side of ramen.

This isn’t your typical RPG. Like a Dragon ditches the real-time combat system of its predecessors in favor of turn-based battles, a bold move that surprisingly works wonders. Imagine a classic JRPG like Final Fantasy, but infused with the swagger and over-the-top humor that defines the Yakuza franchise.

A Dragon Awakened: The Story of Ichiban Kasuga The narrative centers on Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who emerges from an 18-year prison sentence to find his clan in disarray. Betrayed by those he trusted, Kasuga embarks on a quest for truth and redemption, navigating the treacherous underworld of Yokohama’s crime syndicates.

The story unfolds with remarkable depth, touching upon themes of loyalty, betrayal, societal inequality, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Like a Dragon delves into the complex realities of the Japanese yakuza world, exploring its hierarchical structure, code of honor, and brutal internal conflicts. However, it never loses sight of its quirky charm, injecting moments of laughter and heart-warming camaraderie amidst the darkness.

The Party System: Quirks and Capabilities Kasuga assembles a ragtag team of allies, each with their unique abilities and personalities. These companions include:

This diverse cast adds depth and humor to the narrative. You’ll find yourself laughing at Nanba’s flamboyant personality and marveling at Adachi’s surprisingly insightful observations despite his gruff demeanor.

Combat: A Strategic Dance of Quirks The turn-based combat system in Like a Dragon is both strategic and refreshingly absurd. Each character can utilize a variety of skills and special attacks, often incorporating their unique backstories and personalities into the mix.

For instance, Nanba might channel his experience as a host to charm enemies, while Adachi could use his detective skills to exploit their weaknesses. Kasuga’s signature move involves unleashing a flurry of punches in a style reminiscent of classic “Dragon Ball Z” anime sequences. This blending of Japanese RPG mechanics with Yakuza’s trademark over-the-top action creates a truly unique and memorable combat experience.

Exploring Yokohama: A City Brimming with Life Beyond the battles, Like a Dragon offers a rich and immersive world to explore. Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, comes alive with vibrant detail. From bustling shopping districts and neon-lit nightlife to serene parks and traditional shrines, every corner of the city feels distinct and teeming with life.

You can spend hours getting lost in the side content, from completing mini-games like karaoke and batting cages to taking on substories that delve into the lives of Yokohama’s quirky residents. These substories often offer heartwarming tales of redemption, humorously absurd scenarios, and glimpses into the societal issues faced by Japan’s underrepresented communities.

The Legacy Continues: A New Chapter for Yakuza Yakuza: Like a Dragon marked a significant departure for the franchise, introducing a new protagonist, combat system, and tone. While some fans initially questioned the change, the game ultimately proved to be a resounding success. Its blend of engaging storytelling, strategic turn-based combat, and vibrant open world earned critical acclaim and introduced a whole new generation of players to the world of Yakuza.

With its unique combination of RPG elements, crime drama narrative, and Japanese cultural immersion, Yakuza: Like a Dragon stands out as an unforgettable gaming experience. It’s a testament to the power of innovation, showing that even established franchises can evolve while staying true to their core identity.