A perfect example of how to modernize an aging RPG format
If you’re looking for a game that is both visually stunning and packed with action, then Yakuza: Like a Dragon is the perfect choice. It’s an old-school RPG that has been completely revamped to fit modern gaming standards, and it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment. ..
The Yakuza series has been around for a few years now, and it follows the same format: real-time battles with an increasingly epic story. But Dragon completely changes things up, taking a diverting path that not only reinvigorates the series, but also produces one of the best protagonists in modern gaming. Oh, and the story is excellent too! ..
The prologue and early chapters introduce Ichiban Kasuga, a low-level Yakuza member who’s left for dead by his former boss. Kasuga is a reluctant participant in the story, but he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get back on his feet. He’s a determined individual who’ll do whatever it takes to get the story told.
When Ichiban is forced to start over from the ground up, he end up teaming with a motley crew of misfits as they work together to rise from rags to riches, all while uncovering the truth about Ichiban’s past, and the truth behind his betrayal.
The game features a large cast of characters, each with their own unique abilities and motivations. You’ll need to team up with these allies in order to take on the game’s challenging dungeons and bosses. ..
The game is a story-driven adventure that leans heavily on the idea of loyalty, betrayal, family and honour. These themes are constantly toyed with and are echoed across the other characters too, each of which you can choose to learn more about through the game. The story is compelling and well-told, with a few really nice twists that keep it interesting.
Like a Dragon is an RPG that takes its mechanics and general gameplay patterns from other RPGs, but twists them into something fresh and original. This makes the experience more endearing, as it provides a unique and exciting experience that others may not find.
The Safe Rooms have been replaced by a bar that allows you to drink with your companions. This unlocks extra relationship levels and makes the stronger bond between you and your allies more beneficial in battle.
The game is set up in a similar fashion to other Yakuza games, but with some unique twists. For one, the game is turn-based and you must manage your time wisely in order to complete the objectives. This can be a challenge, as enemies will respawn quickly if you’re not careful. Additionally, there are side quests that you must complete in order to progress the story. These quests vary in difficulty and can take some time to complete.
In this game, you have HP and Action Points (the latter of which serve as this game’s version of magic), but each character has their strengths and weaknesses. Likewise, enemies will also have this and an array of status effects can sometimes mean the difference between winning and losing. ..
Further still, the enemy design is absolutely bonkers and equally hilarious. Boss battles become more outrageous as the title progresses, with a monstrous digger one such example. Similarly, the individual enemies range from coat-wearing street flashers and simple mob grunts through to glowstick-wielding hipsters and sign twirlers. There’s a surprising amount of creativity that’s gone into this too, with each having their own set of moves and quirky animations to boot. ..
Your party members have a lot of depth, and their move-sets are tailored to the typical RPG archetypes of tank, healer, mage and warrior. You can change these jobs through the Job Center, if you so wish. Personally, I found the base jobs to be perfect and did not need to change them. Those who like tinkering with the best set-up for their party are likely to get a lot of joy here.
The game’s story is broken up into different districts which largely feel like alternate biomes of a world map you’d find in more high fantasy settings. You can explore a good chunk of the map from the get-go and there are also two other areas you can travel to via taxis (this game’s version of fast travel points).
The Yakuza series is known for its unique and customizable characters, but even if you don’t want to go that route, the amount of content on offer is staggering. Unlike in Ubisoft open world games, what’s here feels very organic and in-keeping with the tone of the game.
There are two different kart-racing minigames where you compete against colourful characters and mob bosses, while there are over 200 different side-quests ranging from simple deliveries and killing a certain amount of enemies through to more specific and in-depth quests for your companions or fighting waves of goons in the battle arena. ..
If you’re looking for a gripping story with a lot of heart and emotion, then Yakuza: Like a Dragon is definitely worth your time. There are tranquil and poignant moments that help you to connect with the characters, making the journey well worth taking. ..
This game is a mix of dark and light, somber and comedic, with an overall tone that is both serious and entertaining. This balance is difficult to achieve but somehow Like a Dragon pulls it off perfectly, making the experience one that is both unique and enjoyable.
The Japanese audio is the more preferred option, but the English dubbing is actually not bad either. The actors give it their all in both languages and whichever way you choose to listen, you’re going to get a good experience. And the same goes for the soundtrack too, which is excellent across the board.
The Yakuza series has always been a bit of a mystery. Unlike some other RPGs that seem to be constantly reinventing the wheel, the Yakuza series seems to take what is already out there and makes it even better. The tonal shift between incredulous humour and more somber, melodramatic beats is really well done, making this one of the most unique RPGs I’ve played in a while.
Ichiban’s journey is an epic tale of loyalty, love and honour, and this is likely to be an experience you’ll remember for years to come. Like a Dragon is a must-play.
