Get ready to experience the thrill of the Japanese underworld in "Yakuza Like a Dragon" - the latest installment in the Yakuza series. With a new protagonist and turn-based combat, this game is a must-play for both fans and newcomers to the series. The game is available for free download and can be installed on supported Windows versions and hardware mentioned below.
Yakuza Like a Dragon is a video game developed and published by Sega. It was released in Japan in January 2020 and globally in November 2020 for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. The game is the eighth main entry in the Yakuza series and features a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga.
Importance Of The Yakuza Series In Gaming
The Yakuza series has been a beloved part of the gaming world since its first release in 2005. The series has gained a reputation for its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and unique blend of open-world exploration and arcade-style combat. The Yakuza series has also been praised for its ability to immerse players in the rich culture of Japan, featuring detailed recreations of real-life locations and landmarks.
The Switch To A Turn-Based Combat System
Yakuza Like a Dragon significantly departs from the traditional real-time combat system of previous entries in the series. Instead, the game features a turn-based combat system more commonly seen in role-playing games. This switch was met with some initial skepticism from fans of the series, but it ultimately proved to be a successful experiment.
Storyline and Characters
The Game's Plot
Yakuza Like a Dragon free download for PC follows the story of Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking member of the Tojo Clan, who is betrayed and imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. After serving a long sentence, Kasuga is released from prison to find that his clan has been destroyed and his former boss has disappeared. Kasuga sets out on a journey to discover the truth behind his betrayal and rebuild the Tojo Clan.
Main Character, Ichiban Kasuga
Ichiban Kasuga is a new protagonist for the Yakuza series, replacing longtime protagonist Kazuma Kiryu. Kasuga is a cheerful and optimistic character who values loyalty and friendship above all else. His time in prison has given him a new perspective on life, and he approaches challenges with a determination to make things right.
Supporting Characters And Their Roles
Yakuza Like a Dragon features a cast of memorable supporting characters, including Saeko Mukouda, a hostess at a club who befriends Kasuga, and Nanba, a former nurse who becomes Kasuga's cellmate and close friend. The game also features several returning characters from previous entries in the series, such as Goro Majima and Taiga Saejima.
Yakuza Like a Dragon Gameplay Mechanics
Turn-Based Combat System
Yakuza Like a Dragon's turn-based combat system is a departure from the real-time combat of previous entries in the series. Players control a party of up to four characters, each with their own unique job classes and abilities. Combat is based on a traditional turn-based system, with players choosing attacks and abilities from a menu and taking turns attacking and defending.
Job System And Skill Trees
The job system in Yakuza Like a Dragon download for PC allows players to assign different job classes to their characters, each with its own unique abilities and stat boosts. As characters gain experience, they can unlock new job classes and upgrade their abilities through a skill tree. The job system adds depth to the game's combat and allows for a wide range of strategies.
Mini-Games And Side Quests
Yakuza Like a Dragon features a wide range of mini-games and side quests, ranging from arcade-style games to baseball batting cages and karaoke. The side quests are often humorous and provide a welcome break from the main story. The mini-games and side quests are a hallmark of previous Yakuza games, and they add to the overall charm and depth.
Setting and Atmosphere
Game's Setting, Yokohama
Yakuza Like a Dragon is set in the city of Yokohama, a location that is new to the Yakuza series. The recreation of Yokohama is stunningly accurate, featuring detailed recreations of real-life locations like Chinatown and the bustling waterfront district. The city is also home to a variety of mini-games and side quests that showcase the city's unique culture and history.
Comparison To Previous Yakuza Games
Yakuza Like a Dragon marks a departure from the setting and tone of previous Yakuza games. The game's move to a turn-based combat system and new protagonist make it feel like a fresh take on the series. However, the focus on storytelling and exploration remains a hallmark of the Yakuza series.
Overall Atmosphere And Tone
Yakuza Like a Dragon PC download balances the serious tone of previous Yakuza games and a lighter, more humorous tone. The game's story has moments of genuine emotion and drama but also features plenty of humor and absurdity. The atmosphere is enhanced by its detailed recreation of Yokohama, filled with memorable characters and locations.
Final Words
Yakuza Like a Dragon is a fantastic addition to the Yakuza series, featuring engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and a unique blend of turn-based combat and open-world exploration. The game's focus on humor and absurdity sets it apart from previous entries in the series, making it a fresh take on the franchise.
Yakuza Like a Dragon is a must-play for fans of the Yakuza series and gamers who enjoy engaging stories, memorable characters, and unique gameplay mechanics. The move to a turn-based combat system may take some getting used to, but it ultimately adds depth and strategy to the combat.
