Yakuza: Like a Dragon! A Wild Ride Through Kamurocho With a Twist

Yakuza: Like a Dragon! A Wild Ride Through Kamurocho With a Twist

The Yakuza series is known for its gritty underworld stories, intense brawls, and captivating blend of Japanese culture and crime drama. But “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” throws a curveball by replacing the series’ iconic beat-’em-up gameplay with turn-based RPG mechanics. This unexpected shift might initially raise eyebrows, but trust me, it works brilliantly.

This seventh mainline installment ditches Kiryu Kazuma, the stoic dragon of Dojima, and introduces us to Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking Yakuza member who gets betrayed and imprisoned for 18 years. Upon his release, he finds Kamurocho, his former stomping grounds, drastically changed. Seeking answers about his betrayal and longing to find his place in the new world, Ichiban embarks on a hilarious, heartwarming, and surprisingly deep adventure.

From Brawls to Turn-Based Tactics: A Genre-Bending Masterpiece

While previous Yakuza games reveled in fast-paced, button-mashing combat, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” embraces a strategic turn-based system reminiscent of classic JRPGs. Ichiban and his party (recruited from a motley crew of misfits) take turns unleashing attacks, utilizing special skills, and strategically positioning themselves on the battlefield.

Each character boasts unique abilities and classes, adding depth to the combat. You have:

  • Ichiban Kasuga: Starting as the “Hero” class, he evolves into powerful archetypes like the “Breaker” (focused on high damage) or the “Samurai” (mastering sword techniques).

  • Nanba: This former Yakuza is a tank, soaking up enemy attacks with his “Slugger” class.

  • Adachi: The charismatic ex-cop provides ranged support with his “Gunner” abilities.

  • Zhao: This Chinese restaurateur excels as a healer and buffer with her “Idol” skills (yes, she sings!).

The game encourages experimentation and building diverse party compositions. You can even customize your team’s appearance and outfits, adding a touch of whimsical fun to the already colorful world.

Kamurocho Reimagined: A Blend of Old and New

“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” takes place in Kamurocho, a familiar setting for Yakuza veterans, but with a refreshed twist. The iconic district retains its neon-drenched alleyways, bustling arcades, and seedy bars, but it also reflects the passage of time. New establishments have sprung up, while old favorites have undergone transformations.

The game faithfully recreates Kamurocho’s urban sprawl, allowing you to freely explore its interconnected streets, discover hidden alleys, and soak in the atmosphere.

But don’t mistake this for a simple open world; “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” masterfully weaves engaging side quests into its narrative tapestry. From tracking down missing cats (don’t underestimate their cuteness) to participating in bizarre mini-games like karaoke contests and mahjong tournaments, the game constantly offers delightful distractions from the main storyline.

Themes of Redemption, Family, and Finding Your Place: A Story That Resonates

“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” explores powerful themes of redemption, family, and finding your place in the world. Ichiban’s journey is not just about uncovering the truth behind his betrayal but also about rebuilding his life after years of imprisonment. He yearns for acceptance and connection, forming unlikely friendships with a diverse cast of characters who become his surrogate family.

The game doesn’t shy away from tackling tough issues like social inequality, the struggles of ex-convicts reintegrating into society, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It presents nuanced perspectives on morality, leaving players to contemplate the complexities of human behavior.

A Visual Feast: Capturing the Essence of Kamurocho

“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” boasts impressive graphics that bring Kamurocho’s vibrant streets to life. From the neon-drenched night sky reflecting on puddles to the intricate details of traditional Japanese architecture, the game creates an immersive and visually captivating experience.

Character models are meticulously designed, capturing the personalities and nuances of each individual.

The soundtrack perfectly complements the gameplay, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese music with modern electronic beats. The result is a soundtrack that’s both atmospheric and exhilarating, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.

A Game That Defies Expectations: A Must-Play for JRPG Fans

“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is more than just a change of pace; it’s a bold reinvention of a beloved franchise. It manages to retain the heart and soul of the Yakuza series while introducing innovative gameplay mechanics that elevate the experience to new heights.

This game is a must-play for fans of both JRPGs and the Yakuza series. Its captivating story, endearing characters, strategic combat system, and vibrant world will leave you wanting more.

So, why not take a chance on “Yakuza: Like a Dragon”? You might just discover your new favorite RPG.