Yakuza: Like a Dragon – Unleashing a Whimsical Crime Drama with Turn-Based Mayhem!
Prepare yourselves for a delightful detour from the typical gritty realism found in many shooter games. We’re diving into the neon-soaked streets of Kamurocho, Yokohama, and Isezaki Ijincho with Yakuza: Like a Dragon, a game that seamlessly blends crime drama with over-the-top humor and, surprisingly, turn-based combat.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon marks a bold departure from the series’ established formula, replacing the frenetic brawling we’ve come to expect with a strategic and engaging turn-based battle system reminiscent of classic RPGs. Don’t let this shift fool you; the game retains its signature Yakuza charm – think eccentric characters, dramatic plot twists, and a healthy dose of absurdity.
The Dragon Awakens: A Story Steeped in Redemption and Revenge
Our protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, is no hardened gangster but an earnest and somewhat naive low-ranking member of the Tojo Clan. He’s fiercely loyal, always willing to put his life on the line for his brethren, but perhaps a tad too trusting. After serving an 18-year prison sentence for a crime he didn’t commit, Ichiban returns to Kamurocho only to be betrayed and left for dead.
Confused and disillusioned, Ichiban stumbles through Yokohama, searching for answers and trying to understand why his former family abandoned him. He eventually forms a ragtag group of unlikely allies:
| Ally | Description |
|---|---|
| Nanba | A former street fighter with a heart of gold and a penchant for brawls |
| Adachi | An eccentric conspiracy theorist convinced the world is run by lizards |
| Joon-gi | A stoic Korean ex-soldier seeking redemption |
Together, they unravel a complex web of conspiracies involving powerful Yakuza factions, corrupt politicians, and a shadowy organization known as the Omi Alliance.
Turn-Based Mayhem: Mastering the Streets with Style
While the combat system might initially seem unexpected for a Yakuza game, it’s surprisingly addictive. You control Ichiban and his party members, strategically selecting attacks, abilities, and items to defeat your foes. The game encourages creative thinking and experimentation as you utilize each character’s unique skillset.
For example:
- Ichiban, with his unwavering determination, can unleash devastating physical attacks and gain buffs through “Heat Actions,” flashy special moves that draw inspiration from classic Yakuza brawls.
- Nanba utilizes his brute strength and street fighting prowess to inflict heavy damage.
- Adachi’s unconventional strategies and knowledge of obscure conspiracies grant him access to powerful magic-like abilities, while Joon-gi employs disciplined martial arts techniques for precise strikes.
Beyond the Battles: Exploring a World Rich with Flavor
Outside of combat, Yakuza: Like a Dragon offers a wealth of activities to keep you entertained. Explore the vibrant cityscapes of Kamurocho, Yokohama, and Isezaki Ijincho, each bursting with unique personalities, hidden secrets, and mini-games galore.
Engage in classic Yakuza activities like karaoke, batting cages, darts, and even managing your own cabaret club! The game’s attention to detail is commendable; the bustling streets, delectable street food stalls, and quirky side characters breathe life into every corner of the world.
A Legacy Reborn: The Game’s Impact and Lasting Appeal
Yakuza: Like a Dragon proved to be a bold yet successful gamble for the series, reinvigorating its formula and introducing a fresh perspective to long-time fans while welcoming newcomers with open arms. Its captivating story, memorable characters, and surprisingly deep turn-based combat system cemented its place as one of the most unique and enjoyable entries in the Yakuza franchise.
The game’s success has paved the way for future installments to experiment with new gameplay mechanics while retaining the core elements that have made Yakuza a beloved series: compelling narratives, outrageous humor, and an undeniable sense of heart.