Yakuza: Like a Dragon! An Unexpected Twist on a Classic Franchise
The Yakuza series has long been celebrated for its gripping blend of gritty crime drama, over-the-top brawling, and surprisingly heartwarming storylines. However, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” throws a curveball at longtime fans by abandoning the franchise’s signature beat ’em up gameplay in favor of a turn-based RPG system reminiscent of classic JRPGs. This bold departure initially sparked controversy among purists, but upon closer inspection, it reveals itself to be a refreshing and surprisingly successful evolution for the series.
Set against the backdrop of Yokohama, “Like a Dragon” introduces Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking Yakuza member who finds himself betrayed and imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. After spending 18 years behind bars, Ichiban emerges into a world vastly different from the one he left behind. Framed for murder, Ichiban must navigate the treacherous underbelly of Yokohama to clear his name and uncover a conspiracy that reaches far beyond his own personal vendetta.
The game’s narrative explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the search for identity in a rapidly changing society. Ichiban, unlike the stoic Kiryu Kazuma who served as the series’ protagonist for years, is an energetic and idealistic individual with a penchant for getting into absurd situations. His unwavering belief in justice and his desire to help those in need make him a relatable and ultimately endearing character.
A Dragon Transformed: From Brawling to Turn-Based Tactics
“Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s” shift to turn-based combat is perhaps its most defining characteristic. This system, inspired by classic JRPG titles like “Final Fantasy” and “Dragon Quest,” allows for deeper strategic planning and customization. Players can assemble a party of four characters, each with unique abilities and skill trees.
| Character | Role | Unique Ability |
|---|---|---|
| Ichiban Kasuga | All-rounder | Can switch between different classes (like Boxer, Samurai, or Host) to adapt to various situations |
| Nanba | Tank | Uses his bulky physique to absorb damage and protect weaker party members |
| Adachi | Support | Provides healing and buffs to allies while debilitating enemies |
| Saeko | Damage Dealer | Inflicts massive damage with her deadly blade techniques |
The combat encounters are visually striking, featuring exaggerated animations and cinematic flair reminiscent of the series’ roots. Players must carefully consider their team composition, enemy weaknesses, and available abilities to emerge victorious from challenging battles.
Beyond the Battles: Yokohama Comes Alive
“Like a Dragon” retains many of the elements that have made the Yakuza series renowned for its immersive open world experience. The bustling streets of Yokohama are brimming with vibrant characters, hidden alleys, and countless side activities. From karaoke competitions to batting cages and even managing your own ramen shop, there’s no shortage of distractions to keep you entertained outside the main narrative.
The game also features a revamped job system that allows Ichiban to take on various roles within Yokohama. As he progresses through the story, he can unlock new jobs like Idol, Detective, or Chef, each granting access to unique abilities and minigames. This adds an element of customization and replayability to the experience, encouraging players to experiment with different playstyles and personalities.
A Soundtrack Worth Remembering
The game’s soundtrack is another highlight, blending catchy J-Pop tunes with more traditional orchestral scores to create a dynamic and memorable soundscape. The voice acting is also top-notch, with a diverse cast bringing the characters of Yokohama to life in both English and Japanese dubs.
“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” might initially seem like a radical departure for the franchise, but it ultimately proves to be a worthy successor. Its innovative combat system, charming protagonist, and vibrant world create an experience that is both familiar and refreshingly new. Whether you’re a seasoned Yakuza veteran or a newcomer to the series, “Like a Dragon” offers a compelling adventure filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable moments.