Yakuza: Like a Dragon - A Wildly Entertaining JRPG Experience!

Step into the neon-drenched streets of Yokohama, Japan, and prepare for an experience unlike any other. Yakuza: Like a Dragon throws tradition out the window, replacing its series’ signature brawling combat with a gloriously absurd turn-based RPG system. Don’t let that fool you; beneath the quirky exterior lies a captivating narrative about redemption, found family, and the unshakeable spirit of a man refusing to be beaten down by life.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon, released in 2020, marks a significant departure for the long-running franchise. Gone are Kiryu’s stoic fists and lightning-fast combos; instead, you take control of Ichiban Kasuga, an ex-yakuza member who returns to his hometown after serving 18 years in prison only to find his beloved family vanished.
Ichiban: A Hero Unlike Any Other
Ichiban Kasuga isn’t your typical stoic hero. He’s a lovable goofball with an unshakeable sense of optimism and a penchant for getting into absurd situations. Inspired by classic JRPGs like Dragon Quest, he views life as one grand adventure, constantly narrating his actions in dramatic fashion. This narrative quirk adds a delightful layer of humor to the game, making even mundane tasks feel engaging and entertaining.
Ichiban’s journey is driven by a profound sense of loyalty and justice. Wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit, he longs to reunite with his former clan and find meaning in a world that has moved on without him. He encounters a colorful cast of characters along the way, each with their own struggles and motivations:
- Nanba: A homeless ex-chef who becomes Ichiban’s steadfast companion and mentor figure, guiding him through the complexities of Yokohama.
- Adachi: A disgraced former policeman struggling to find redemption after losing everything he held dear.
- Saeko: A skilled bartender with a mysterious past and a fierce determination to protect those she cares for.
Together, they form an unconventional “family,” bound by loyalty, shared experiences, and a desire to fight for what’s right.
Turn-Based Mayhem: The Art of the Job System
Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s combat system is a radical departure from its predecessors. Instead of real-time brawls, you engage in turn-based battles utilizing a unique “Job” system inspired by classic JRPGs.
Each character can adopt various Jobs that determine their abilities and fighting style. These range from the traditional Fighter and Swordsman to more unconventional options like Idol, Breakdancer, and Host. This dynamic system encourages experimentation and allows you to tailor your party composition to suit your preferred playstyle.
Table: Some Interesting Yakuza: Like a Dragon Jobs
Job | Description | Strengths |
---|---|---|
Boxer | A powerhouse brawler with high attack power | Close-range damage, stun effects |
Host | A charismatic crowd-pleaser who can charm and debuff enemies | Support skills, debuffs, status ailments |
Healer | Dedicated to keeping the party healthy | Healing abilities, buffs |
Musician | Utilizes musical instruments to inflict damage and support allies | AoE attacks, buffs |
The combat system is both strategic and engaging. You must carefully consider enemy weaknesses, exploit elemental advantages, and utilize each character’s unique skills to emerge victorious.
Yokohama: A Vibrant Playground of Activities
Yakuza: Like a Dragon stays true to the series’ renowned open-world exploration. Yokohama is meticulously recreated with stunning detail, offering countless opportunities for side activities, diversions, and mini-games.
From karaoke competitions and go-kart racing to managing your own cabaret club and participating in underground brawls, the game world pulsates with life and personality. Completing these optional activities not only grants valuable experience points and rewards but also deepens your understanding of Yokohama’s vibrant culture and quirky inhabitants.
Themes of Redemption and Found Family
At its core, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a story about redemption and finding solace in the bonds forged through shared experiences. Ichiban, stripped of his former identity and forced to start anew, discovers that true strength lies not in brute force but in compassion, loyalty, and unwavering hope.
The game explores the complexities of human relationships, highlighting the importance of forgiveness, second chances, and the unbreakable spirit that endures even in the face of adversity.
A Must-Play JRPG Experience
Yakuza: Like a Dragon, with its unique blend of turn-based RPG mechanics, quirky humor, heartwarming storytelling, and a vibrant open world, is an absolute gem for fans of the genre. It’s a bold and unconventional entry that breathes fresh life into the Yakuza franchise while retaining the series’ signature heart and soul.
Whether you’re a seasoned JRPG veteran or a curious newcomer, prepare to be swept away by Ichiban Kasuga’s wild ride through the neon-drenched streets of Yokohama.