Yakuza: Like A Dragon? Experience Gritty Japanese Crime Drama Meets Turn-Based RPG Combat!

Stepping away from the established brawler formula of the series, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” throws you headfirst into the unfamiliar yet captivating world of turn-based RPG combat. Released in 2020 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, this bold reimagining of the franchise garnered critical acclaim for its unique narrative, quirky characters, and surprisingly strategic gameplay.
The story centers on Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who, after serving an 18-year prison sentence for a crime he didn’t commit, returns to Kamurocho only to be betrayed by his former allies and left for dead. Seeking revenge and grappling with the harsh realities of the modern underworld, Ichiban embarks on a journey through Yokohama, encountering a vibrant cast of characters who become his newfound family.
“Yakuza: Like A Dragon” doesn’t shy away from exploring complex themes such as loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and societal inequality. The narrative masterfully weaves social commentary into its thrilling plot, tackling issues like homelessness, poverty, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
The game’s combat system is a refreshing departure from the series’ traditional brawling mechanics. Instead, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” embraces turn-based RPG battles with a unique twist. Inspired by Ichiban’s passion for Dragon Quest games, the combat utilizes a classic Job System, allowing players to customize their party members with diverse classes and abilities.
Imagine wielding the raw power of a brawler, the tactical precision of a gunslinger, or even the mystical prowess of a healer, all within the same party! Each job unlocks a unique set of skills and spells, adding depth and strategy to every encounter.
Mastering this system requires careful planning and understanding enemy weaknesses. Experimenting with different job combinations and exploiting elemental advantages becomes crucial for success, especially in challenging boss battles.
Let’s delve deeper into the captivating world of “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” by examining its key features:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Turn-Based Combat | A refreshing departure from the series’ brawler roots, offering strategic depth and customization through a Job System. |
Diverse Job System | Allows players to customize party members with various classes and abilities, ranging from brawlers and assassins to healers and dancers. |
Engaging Narrative | Explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and societal inequality through a compelling storyline set in Yokohama. |
Quirky Characters | Features a memorable cast of individuals with distinct personalities and motivations, forming Ichiban’s “found family”. |
Minigames? Oh Yes, They Are Abundant!
“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” retains the series’ signature emphasis on minigames, offering players a plethora of activities to indulge in between missions.
- Karaoke: Belt out your favorite tunes and aim for that perfect score!
- Go-Karting: Race against rivals on exhilarating tracks, showcasing your driving prowess.
- Part-Time Jobs: Earn extra yen by taking on odd jobs like delivering packages or working at a convenience store.
These minigames not only provide fun diversions but also offer opportunities to gain valuable experience points and unlock unique rewards.
A Visual Feast for the Eyes!
The game boasts impressive graphics that faithfully capture the vibrant and gritty atmosphere of Yokohama. Detailed character models, immersive environments, and captivating cutscenes contribute to an unforgettable visual experience. “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is a testament to Sega’s dedication to creating high-quality RPG experiences.
Should You Take the Plunge?
“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is a must-play for fans of the series looking for a fresh and engaging adventure, as well as newcomers curious about the world of Japanese crime dramas and RPG mechanics. Its captivating story, unique combat system, and abundance of minigames will keep you entertained for hours on end. So, are you ready to embrace the dragon within and embark on an unforgettable journey?