Yakuza: Like a Dragon

What it’s like

This title reimagines the franchise by swapping visceral action for a charming, party-based turn-based RPG structure. You follow Ichiban Kasuga, an optimistic everyman thrust into the criminal underworld, on a quest that balances high-stakes drama with absurd, over-the-top humor. The experience is defined by its vibrant open-world exploration of Yokohama, where side activities range from mundane office work to bizarre mini-games. While the main narrative delivers a compelling emotional core about loyalty and identity, the true strength lies in the ensemble cast; each companion feels distinct, with their own arcs and combat styles that encourage deep investment. The game successfully merges serious crime drama with lighthearted whimsy, creating a tone that is both heartfelt and hilariously eccentric. It offers a polished, content-rich adventure where the journey through the city’s districts is as engaging as the story itself.

Strong in Atmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicCharactersExploration / WorldPolish / PerformanceStory / NarrativeVisuals / ArtWriting / DialogueCombatGameplay / MechanicsPacingProgression / ReplayabilitySocial / Relationships

Keep in mind The turn-based combat may feel slow or simplistic to players seeking fast-paced action or complex strategic depth. Long-time fans of the series might miss the iconic protagonist and traditional beat-'em-up gameplay, finding the shift in tone jarring.

AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from ign.com, pcgamer.com, metacritic.com, gamespot.com, eurogamer.net.