Yakuza: Like a Dragon – An Engaging Turn-Based RPG Set in Japan!
Stepping away from the traditional beat ’em up style of previous entries, Yakuza: Like a Dragon takes a bold leap into the world of turn-based RPGs. This shift might initially raise eyebrows among long-time fans, but trust me when I say it works surprisingly well. Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and published by Sega, Yakuza: Like a Dragon introduces Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking member of the Arakawa family who is betrayed and left for dead after serving an 18-year prison sentence. Upon his release, Ichiban returns to Kamurocho, Tokyo, only to find himself embroiled in a larger conspiracy involving corrupt politicians, rival yakuza clans, and mysterious organizations.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s story is a captivating blend of humor, drama, and heartwarming camaraderie. The narrative explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and finding your place in the world. As Ichiban, you’ll encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique motivations and backstories. From the stoic ex-yakuza Joon-gi Han to the quirky homeless woman Saeko Mukoda, these companions will become invaluable allies in your quest for justice.
Gameplay: A Unique Blend of Classic and Modern
The game’s turn-based combat system is a refreshing departure from the series’ traditional real-time brawling. Drawing inspiration from classic JRPGs like Dragon Quest, Yakuza: Like a Dragon allows you to strategically position your party members on a battlefield grid. Each character has access to a variety of skills and abilities, ranging from powerful melee attacks to magic spells and support buffs.
- Classes and Skills: One of the highlights of the combat system is the job system. Characters can adopt different professions, each with its own set of unique skills and strengths. This allows for diverse party compositions and strategic customization. For example, Ichiban can become a Hero, a Brawler, or even a breakdancing Musician, each with distinctive movesets.
- Dragon Engine: Powering the game’s visuals is the Dragon Engine, Sega’s proprietary graphics engine known for its detailed environments and realistic character models. Kamurocho and Yokohama are rendered in stunning detail, from neon-lit streets to bustling marketplaces.
Mini-Games Galore: The Quintessential Yakuza Experience
Yakuza games are renowned for their immersive side content, and Like a Dragon continues this tradition with gusto.
| Mini-Game | Description |
|---|---|
| Karaoke | Belt out your favorite tunes in front of a virtual crowd |
| Dragon Kart | Engage in thrilling kart races around Kamurocho |
| Sega Arcade Classics | Relive classic arcade titles like Outrun and Virtua Fighter |
| Can Collecting | Scrounge the streets for discarded cans to earn yen |
These mini-games offer a welcome respite from the main storyline, allowing you to explore different facets of Japanese culture and unwind with some lighthearted fun.
Soundtrack and Localization: A Touch of Authenticity
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s soundtrack perfectly complements its vibrant world and dramatic narrative. From upbeat J-Pop tracks during exploration to intense battle themes that pump you up for combat, the music adds depth and emotion to every scene. The game also features excellent localization with well-written dialogue and voice acting that captures the essence of the characters.
Final Verdict: A Must-Play for RPG Fans
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a bold and refreshing entry in the series that successfully blends classic JRPG elements with the gritty realism and heartwarming characters of the Yakuza franchise. While the shift to turn-based combat might initially seem unconventional, it ultimately enhances the strategic depth and replayability of the game.
Whether you’re a seasoned Yakuza fan or a newcomer to the series, Like a Dragon offers an unforgettable experience filled with memorable characters, engaging story beats, and hours of captivating gameplay.