Yakuza: Like A Dragon marks a daring transformation for SEGA’s beloved franchise, replacing real-time brawling with strategic turn-based combat. This bold reimagining introduces new protagonist Ichiban Kasuga and fresh gameplay mechanics while preserving the series’ distinctive blend of drama and humor. Our Yakuza: Like A Dragon review demonstrates why this radical change proves successful.
The game masterfully balances tradition with innovation, welcoming both series veterans and newcomers alike. With its rich storytelling, deep RPG systems, and vibrant world, Like A Dragon proves that sometimes the biggest risks yield the greatest rewards.
Key Features of Yakuza: Like A Dragon
- Dynamic turn-based combat system with 19 unique job classes
- Compelling narrative focused on redemption and betrayal
- Expansive Yokohama setting with 50 optional substories
- Versatile job system with character class switching
- 15 mini-games including classic SEGA arcade titles
- Party-based combat with 7 recruitable team members
- Over 100 combat skills and extensive customization options
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A Fresh Take on Combat
As our Yakuza: Like A Dragon review explores, the turn-based combat system represents a dramatic shift for the series. Players can strategically employ 19 different job classes, each offering unique abilities and playstyles that keep encounters fresh and engaging.
Environmental Mastery
The combat system cleverly incorporates environmental objects as weapons, maintaining the series’ signature over-the-top style. From bicycles to street signs, anything can become a tool of destruction in creative ways.
Strategic Depth
Yakuza: Like A Dragon‘s party composition and positioning add tactical layers to each encounter. The system rewards thoughtful planning while remaining accessible enough for RPG newcomers to grasp quickly.
An Unforgettable Story of Redemption
Ichiban Kasuga’s tale of betrayal and redemption forms the emotional core of Like A Dragon. As noted by critics, after serving 18 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit, he returns to find his world shattered and his loyalty questioned.
Character Development
Our Yakuza: Like A Dragon review finds that the narrative expertly balances serious dramatic moments with lighthearted humor. Through Ichiban’s journey, players experience a story that tackles mature themes while maintaining the series’ characteristic charm.
Living, Breathing Yokohama
Yokohama serves as a vast playground filled with activities and opportunities for adventure. The Yakuza: Like A Dragon review team discovered the city feels alive with 50 unique substories that range from heartwarming to hilariously absurd.
Rich Side Content
From classic SEGA arcade games to intense go-kart racing, the variety of mini-games provides welcome diversions from the main story. Each activity is thoughtfully implemented with its own progression systems.
RPG Systems and Progression
The job system forms the backbone of character progression, offering 19 distinct classes that can be switched between freely. Each job provides unique abilities and stat bonuses, encouraging experimentation.
Team Building
Managing a party of up to seven members adds depth to both combat and storytelling. Each character brings unique personalities and abilities, creating engaging team dynamics.
Pros and Cons of Yakuza: Like A Dragon
Pros
- Engaging narrative with excellent character development
- Deep yet accessible turn-based combat
- Vast amount of quality side content
- Perfect balance of drama and humor
- Diverse and flexible job system
- Rich selection of mini-games
- Strong voice acting and localization
Cons
- Combat pace may feel slow for action fans
- Some job progression requires grinding
- Middle chapters can drag slightly
- Can overwhelm series newcomers initially
Conclusion
Yakuza: Like A Dragon successfully reinvents the series while maintaining its core appeal. The turn-based combat system, compelling narrative, and wealth of content create an engaging experience that feels both fresh and familiar. Our comprehensive Yakuza: Like A Dragon review confirms this is a masterful evolution of the franchise.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or newcomer to the series, Like A Dragon offers an unforgettable journey filled with heart, humor, and surprisingly deep RPG mechanics. It’s a masterful evolution that sets an exciting new direction for the franchise.
