Yakuza: Like a Dragon – A Hilarious Turn From Beat 'Em Up To JRPG

“Like a Dragon”, the latest installment in the long-running “Yakuza” franchise, throws a curveball at seasoned fans. Gone are the days of bone-crunching combos and whirlwind brawls; instead, Sega has embraced the fantastical world of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs). This shift might sound jarring initially, but trust me, it’s an unexpected delight that breathes fresh life into the series.

From Kamurocho to Yokohama: A New Setting For a Familiar Face

The game takes us from the neon-soaked streets of Kamurocho to the vibrant and bustling port city of Yokohama. While this change in scenery might feel jarring at first, it quickly becomes apparent that “Like a Dragon” has retained the series’ heart and soul. You step into the shoes of Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking member of the Arakawa family who takes the fall for his patriarch, only to be released from prison after 18 years to find his former home in ruins.

Betrayed by those he once considered family, Ichiban embarks on a quest for answers and retribution, traversing the diverse districts of Yokohama. Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters: from homeless veterans to aspiring idols, each with their own unique story and motivations.

A Quirky Cast With Hearts of Gold

One of “Like a Dragon’s” greatest strengths lies in its endearing characters. Ichiban himself is a lovable goofball, naive but fiercely loyal. His unwavering optimism shines through even the darkest moments, adding a touch of heartwarming humor to the gritty narrative. Joining him are companions with equally quirky personalities: Nanba, the streetwise homeless man with an encyclopedic knowledge of Yokohama; Adachi, a disgraced police officer seeking redemption; and Joon-Gi Han, a Korean-Japanese aspiring businessman with a hidden past.

The interactions between these characters are genuinely heartwarming, filled with witty banter and poignant moments that reveal their vulnerabilities.

Embracing Turn-Based Tactics: A New Playground for Brawlers

Perhaps the most significant change in “Like a Dragon” is the transition from real-time brawling to turn-based combat. While this might seem like a drastic departure for a series known for its over-the-top action, it surprisingly works exceptionally well.

The combat system is deeply strategic, requiring careful planning and execution. Each character in your party learns a variety of skills and abilities, categorized into different classes:

Players can swap between party members during battle, exploiting each character’s strengths and weaknesses. The game introduces a “Job System” where you can further customize your characters by unlocking new classes and abilities as they level up.

Yokohama: A Playground of Side Quests and Minigames

Beyond the main story, “Like a Dragon” overflows with content to keep you entertained for hours on end. The city of Yokohama is brimming with side quests, each offering its own unique reward and narrative thread. From helping a struggling ramen chef to uncovering a mysterious conspiracy involving karaoke, the world offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

The game also boasts an impressive array of minigames:

• Dragon Kart: A wacky kart racing experience with over-the-top power-ups and hilarious character interactions
• Pocket Circuit: Build and race miniature cars in this nostalgic throwback to classic arcade games
• Management Sim: Take control of your own Ichiban Kasuga-themed cabaret club, recruiting dancers, customizing the venue, and attracting customers

A Worthy Entry in the Yakuza Saga

“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is a bold experiment that pays off spectacularly. The transition to turn-based combat adds a layer of strategic depth while retaining the series’ trademark humor and heart. With its engaging characters, captivating story, and plethora of side content, “Like a Dragon” offers an unforgettable experience for both veterans and newcomers to the franchise.