Yakuza: Like a Dragon - A Hilarious Journey Through Kamurocho With Turn-Based Tactics!
Prepare yourself for a wild ride through the neon-drenched streets of Kamurocho, because Yakuza: Like a Dragon throws a curveball (or should we say, a “Suplex”) at the franchise’s familiar beat ‘em up formula. This time around, you’ll be trading your trusty fists and katanas for strategic turn-based combat, a change that surprisingly breathes fresh life into the beloved series.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon follows the story of Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who serves an eighteen-year prison sentence for a crime he didn’t commit. Upon his release, he finds Kamurocho drastically changed, and his former patriarch has seemingly betrayed him. Driven by a thirst for truth and justice (and maybe a craving for some delicious ramen), Ichiban embarks on a quest to uncover the conspiracy surrounding his imprisonment and reclaim his place in the world.
The Dragon Awakens: A New Protagonist & Party System
Unlike previous Yakuza protagonists, Kasuga isn’t the stoic Kazuma Kiryu, the dragon of Dojima. Kasuga is a whirlwind of boundless energy, unwavering optimism, and an unshakeable belief in the power of friendship. He stumbles through life with a naive charm that’s both endearing and hilarious. His personality shines through his interactions with a colorful cast of characters who join him on his journey, forming a party reminiscent of classic JRPGs.
Think you can handle Nanba, the ex-Yakuza with a heart of gold (and a penchant for getting into trouble)? Or how about Adachi, the former policeman seeking redemption? Each party member brings unique skills and personalities to the table, adding depth and variety to both the combat system and the narrative.
| Character | Class | Role |
|—|—|—| | Ichiban Kasuga | Hero | Deals physical damage, heals allies | | Koichi Adachi | Job Master | Supports allies with buffs and debuffs | | Yu Nanba | Brawler | Deals heavy physical damage |
Turn-Based Tactics: A Refreshing Take on Yakuza Combat
Hold onto your hats because Yakuza: Like a Dragon ditches the real-time brawling for a turn-based system inspired by classic JRPGs. Don’t worry, though; it retains the signature over-the-top violence and flashy finishing moves that make the series so iconic. You can still unleash devastating combos, but now you’ll need to strategize your attacks and utilize party synergies to overcome challenging encounters.
The game features a robust job system that allows you to customize each character’s abilities and playstyle. Want to turn Nanba into a tank who absorbs enemy damage? Go for it! Or perhaps you want Adachi to become a master of crowd control with debilitating debuffs. The possibilities are vast, offering endless opportunities for experimentation and customization.
Kamurocho Reimagined: A Vibrant World Full of Quirks
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s world is Kamurocho through a new lens. While familiar locations like the Millennium Tower and Club Sega remain, there’s a palpable freshness to the environment. The addition of side quests that involve everything from karaoke competitions to managing a homeless shelter injects a dose of absurdity into the experience.
Don’t underestimate the side content; it’s often just as entertaining (and sometimes even more so) than the main storyline. You’ll find yourself getting lost in mini-games like batting cages and retro arcade games, or exploring hidden alleys for quirky encounters with eccentric NPCs.
Beyond the Combat: Themes of Friendship and Redemption
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is more than just a beat ’em up (or rather, a turn-based RPG). It explores themes of friendship, loyalty, redemption, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Ichiban’s journey is ultimately about overcoming adversity and learning that even the most hardened criminals can find compassion and second chances.
The game tackles these heavy themes with a surprising amount of heart and humor. Its willingness to embrace absurdity and laugh at itself makes for a truly unique gaming experience.
A Must-Play for Yakuza Fans and JRPG Enthusiasts Alike!
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a bold departure from the series’ established formula, yet it retains the heart and soul that have made Yakuza such a beloved franchise. If you’re looking for a game with a compelling story, quirky characters, deep combat mechanics, and a world brimming with personality, then look no further. This dragon is ready to breathe fire into your gaming experience!