Stepping away from its established brawler roots, Yakuza: Like a Dragon plunges into uncharted territory with a fresh and exciting turn-based combat system. But fear not, veteran fans of the franchise! This bold departure doesn’t abandon the signature charm and heart that make Yakuza games so beloved.
Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and published by Sega, Yakuza: Like a Dragon introduces us to Ichiban Kasuga, an earnest but somewhat naive member of the Tojo Clan who finds himself betrayed and imprisoned after taking the fall for a crime he didn’t commit. After 18 long years behind bars, Ichiban returns to Yokohama only to discover his beloved clan has been decimated and replaced by a ruthless new force. Determined to uncover the truth behind his betrayal and reclaim what was stolen from him, Ichiban embarks on a captivating journey filled with humor, heart, and hard-hitting turn-based battles.
This isn’t your typical Yakuza experience; gone are the days of frantic brawling and environmental takedowns. Instead, Like a Dragon embraces a classic JRPG combat system where strategic party composition, skill selection, and carefully timed attacks are crucial for success. Ichiban is joined by a colorful cast of companions, each with their own unique abilities and personalities:
- Nanba: This former wrestler turned street performer brings his brutish strength and flashy wrestling moves to the battlefield.
- Adachi: A gruff and cynical detective with a penchant for firearms and tactical maneuvering.
- Saeko: A cunning hostess with deadly precision and agile attacks using her katana and knives.
And there’s more! Like a Dragon introduces job classes, allowing your party members to adopt different roles with unique skills and playstyles. From the hard-hitting “Hero” class to the mystical “Summoner” capable of calling forth devastating elemental attacks, the possibilities for customization are vast.
The combat system itself is surprisingly deep and engaging. You’ll need to carefully analyze enemy weaknesses and exploit them with your party’s abilities. Timing plays a crucial role, as landing critical hits or successfully dodging enemy attacks can turn the tide of battle. But don’t worry if you’re new to turn-based combat; Like a Dragon features helpful tutorials and an intuitive interface that makes it easy to grasp the fundamentals.
Beyond the Battlefield: Exploring Yokohama’s Vibrant Underbelly
Yakuza games have always been renowned for their meticulously crafted environments and captivating side stories, and Like a Dragon continues this tradition in spectacular fashion. Yokohama is brought to life with stunning detail, from bustling neon-lit streets and serene waterfront promenades to hidden alleyways teeming with shady characters.
Exploring the city reveals a wealth of activities:
Activity | Description |
---|---|
Karaoke | Belt out your favorite tunes with Ichiban and his companions |
Go Karting | Race against rivals on adrenaline-pumping go-kart tracks |
Arcade Games | Test your skills at classic arcade games like Virtua Fighter and Daytona USA |
Substories | Uncover quirky and often hilarious side quests that reveal hidden depths of Yokohama’s diverse inhabitants |
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is more than just a combat-focused RPG; it’s a story about redemption, loyalty, and the importance of finding your place in the world. Ichiban Kasuga is a hero you can truly root for, his unwavering optimism and genuine desire to help others shining through every interaction.
A Triumphant Rebirth for a Beloved Franchise
Yakuza: Like A Dragon is a bold and brilliant reinvention of the Yakuza formula. Its captivating story, engaging turn-based combat system, and rich exploration opportunities make it an unforgettable gaming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Yakuza veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, Like A Dragon offers something truly special – a heartfelt and hilarious journey that will leave a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
So buckle up, grab your katana (or trusty frying pan), and prepare for an adventure unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before!