
Prepare to trade your high-octane racing car for a quirky turn-based RPG experience. “Yakuza: Like a Dragon,” while technically not categorized as a racing game, plunges players into the adrenaline-fueled underworld of Kamurocho, a fictionalized district inspired by Tokyo’s Kabukicho entertainment area, and offers a thrilling narrative that defies typical genre conventions.
From Brawler to Businessman: A Twist in Fate
This installment marks a significant departure from previous entries in the Yakuza franchise. For the first time, players ditch the series’ signature real-time combat for a unique turn-based RPG system. The story follows Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who emerges from prison after an 18-year sentence only to find his beloved clan has betrayed him.
With a newfound sense of purpose and an insatiable hunger for truth, Ichiban sets out on a quest to uncover the conspiracy that led to his imprisonment and reclaim his honor. Along his chaotic journey, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, including:
- Nanba: A former homeless man with a penchant for explosives who becomes Ichiban’s loyal confidant.
- Saeko Mukoda: A skilled hostess with a troubled past who joins the party seeking redemption.
- Koichi Adachi: A disgraced detective haunted by his failures, desperate to make things right.
Each character brings their unique abilities and personalities to the table, contributing to the game’s dynamic turn-based battles.
Embrace the Turn: A Strategic Twist on Yakuza Combat
“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” masterfully integrates its quirky narrative with a strategic combat system that feels both fresh and familiar. The turn-based mechanics draw inspiration from classic RPGs, allowing players to strategically position their characters, utilize special abilities, and exploit enemy weaknesses.
Unlike traditional RPGs, however, “Like a Dragon” embraces the over-the-top action and humor synonymous with the Yakuza series. Characters can unleash devastating attacks inspired by everyday objects, turning commonplace items like baseball bats and bicycles into deadly weapons.
The game’s unique “Job System” adds another layer of depth to the combat. Ichiban and his companions can adopt different professions with specialized skillsets, allowing players to tailor their party composition to specific challenges. From brawlers who excel in close-quarters combat to healers who mend wounds, each job offers distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Kamurocho: A World Overflowing with Charm and Mayhem
Beyond its innovative gameplay, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” captures the essence of Kamurocho with meticulous detail. The bustling streets come alive with vibrant neon lights, boisterous crowds, and hidden alleyways teeming with shady characters. Players can immerse themselves in a myriad of side activities, including karaoke singing, batting practice, and even managing their own business.
The game’s soundtrack perfectly complements the action, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese melodies with modern-day hip hop influences. This sonic tapestry adds another layer of immersion, drawing players deeper into Kamurocho’s vibrant world.
A Dragon’s Legacy: Redefining a Beloved Franchise
“Yakuza: Like a Dragon,” while initially met with some skepticism from longtime fans, has proven to be a triumphant evolution for the franchise. Its turn-based combat system, quirky narrative, and captivating setting have garnered widespread acclaim, attracting both seasoned veterans and newcomers alike.
By embracing change and daring to experiment, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” has not only solidified its place as one of the best entries in the series but also paved the way for future installments to explore new creative horizons.