Goro Majima’s Epic Pirate Adventure Shouldn’t Be His Last

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In “Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii,” Goro Majima takes center stage for the first time following his recurring roles throughout the “Yakuza” series. In this game set in Hawaii, the amnesiac Majima undergoes substantial character growth, moving beyond the “Mad Dog of Shimano” persona fans were familiar with from earlier appearances. While Ichiban Kasuga is expected to remain the main character in future “Yakuza” installments, it’s unlikely that “Pirate Yakuza” marks Majima’s last appearance in the series.

Kiryu’s Story May Be Over, But Majima’s Shouldn’t Be

The preceding major installment, titled “Like a Dragon: Infinite Fortune,” marked the final appearance for protagonist Kazuma Kiryu, who fought valiantly as the Dragon of Dojima in what seemed like a farewell battle before dedicating himself to treating his cancer. Despite having a limited role in “Infinite Fortune,” Majima and Kiryu engaged in an epic showdown one last time, and Kiryu expressed that he was entrusting Japan’s safety to people like Majima following his own retirement.

In an unexpected twist, the Pirate Yakuza group steered Majima’s narrative towards uncharted territories. The infamous “Mad Dog” underwent amnesia, transforming into a pirate captain on a quest for hidden riches and challenging the corrupt powers ruling the lawless Madlantis. Since Majima was afflicted with amnesia at the game’s outset, players were introduced to a previously unseen facet of this beloved character. Despite his chaotic and combat-oriented nature remaining intact, Majima demonstrated a compassionate side, rescuing animals, assisting the residents of Hawaii in various subplots, and developing a close bond with his new companion, Noah. By the game’s conclusion, even after regaining his lost memories, Majima emerged as a kinder, more tranquil, and altruistic character, without compromising any of his fighting abilities or unique panache.

At the conclusion of the game, Majima decides to hand over his mantle to the upcoming generation and goes back to Japan to spend valuable time with Kiryu, potentially bidding farewell to one of his longest and dearest friends. It’s a heartfelt scene – but it shouldn’t be the last we see of Majima. Although he may be growing older and the Tojo Clan might have disbanded permanently, Majima has a renewed vigor following his sea voyage. Future games should explore his continued journey rather than having him fully retire or depart from the series altogether.

Majima Could Play Many Roles In Future Like a Dragon Games

Following the success of Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, where Majima demonstrated his ability to carry a solo storyline (after his previous collaboration with Kiryu in Yakuza 0), it’s plausible that we might see him starring in additional spin-off games down the line. Yet, it’s equally likely he could reappear in main series games as well, either if Kasuga remains the protagonist or new characters take over the lead role. Possible roles for Majima could encompass:

  • A mentor who teaches combat skills, possibly through the return of the “Majima Everywhere” system from Yakuza Kiwami.
  • A high-level, potentially optional boss, providing a tricky challenge to players. He could even fight using his new Sea Dog style introduced in Pirate Yakuza.
  • The character in charge of a management mini-game, especially if he tries to rebuild Majima Construction or the security firm he wanted to open following Like a Dragon.
  • The character responsible for transportation and fast travel, especially if he chooses to return to his role as a pirate captain.

Regardless of where Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio decides to develop Goro Majima in the future, fans are bound to be thrilled about it – he is a beloved character whose fame has grown significantly since the launch of Pirate Yakuza. Even though Kiryu’s tale may have concluded, Majima’s doesn’t need to end there; Pirate Yakuza demonstrates that it certainly shouldn’t.

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2025-03-01 17:24