Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza Hawaii May Move Needle, But Doesn’t Need To

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza Hawaii May Move  Needle, But Doesn't Need To

As a die-hard fan of the Yakuza series with over a decade of experience under my belt, I am beyond excited for “Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.” This title promises to deliver a unique and innovative twist on the beloved franchise, with the iconic Goro Majima taking center stage.


The game titled “Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii” is as unconventional as its series, with the legendary Yakuza character Goro Majima set to star in RGG’s upcoming spin-off. Instead of the zombies from Dead Souls or the secret agent antics of Gaiden, this game will, as its name implies, focus on the high seas. With Majima leading a crew of pirates both in and outside of Hawaii, the title seems to highlight both innovation and the cherished mainstay elements that the LAD series is known for. These familiar features will be showcased in a new setting with an amnesiac Majima at the helm.

In the “LAD” series, Majima has played various characters, but he’s particularly known for being half of the dual protagonists in “Yakuza 0.” However, in “Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii,” he loses his past due to amnesia. The story unfolds about six months after the end of “LAD: Infinite Wealth,” and there’s some conjecture regarding its relation to Kiryu’s cancer diagnosis. Although Majima is the main character, questions about how he ended up on a secluded beach have arisen, and with Saejima returning, fans are preparing for an emotional yet hilarious journey. Fortunately, they can cheer up by revisiting classic minigames, such as Dragon Kart, Crazy Delivery, and of course, karaoke.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Emphasizes the Old and the New

Incorporating the Old With the New

In the main gameplay of ‘Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’, Majima will explore both familiar and fresh territories, extending beyond the Hawaii depicted in ‘Infinite Wealth’ to neighboring coastlines. Destinations such as the shady port known as Madlantis, a suspected lair for criminal organizations run by the villainess Queen Michele, echo the setting of ‘Gaiden’s The Castle. Real-time combat from previous installments will return prominently in ‘Pirate Yakuza’, featuring both naval battles and land skirmishes. Majima’s trademark dagger attacks will be joined by an array of new weapons, including a violin capable of summoning sharks and a giant chimpanzee that delivers powerful uppercuts to enemies.

Taking Cues from the LAD Series’ Past

The pandemonium of attacking adversary vessels mirrors the Hell Team Rumble from Gaiden, and the return of clothing customization is another well-received addition, enabling players to outfit Majima in outfits from the series like his cabaret costume from Yakuza 0 or his famous Goromi attire. The homage extends further, as the voice actor for Majima, Hidenari Ugaki, will be featured wearing a baker boy hat. In addition to these references, Pirate Yakuza brings back some of its minigames, such as collecting food while performing flips, similar to Ichi’s Crazy Delivery, and Dragon Kart, which now includes a racetrack designed for the streets of Hawaii.

In the karaoke choices by “Pirate Yakuza”, a popular number named “24-hour Cinderella” will come back, paving the way for Majima to visit “Infinite Wealth’s Survive Bar”. The appearance of “Dondoko Island” in “Infinite Wealth” seems to inspire a smaller version within Majima’s ship. He can now personalize his vessel much like he could on Dondoko Island. Many familiar faces from the series, who previously united for the Joryu Clan in “Gaiden”, will now be found sailing under the flag of the Goromaru on the open seas. The crew’s customization might draw inspiration from “Gaiden”‘s focus on characters with supportive, defensive, and offensive roles, but it remains unclear how combat unfolds beyond Majima’s involvement.

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Never Ages

Having Majima back as the main character once more demonstrates the versatility of the RGG series in breathing life into the familiar. This is a surprising advantage, considering Majima’s advanced age, as fans note that he seems no older than when the series began. The ability to revitalize previous elements and maps through Majima’s perspective will be instrumental in Pirate Yakuza, balancing nostalgia with innovation effectively. While the ship battles and seafaring exploration are engaging, references to the series’ origins appear equally impactful, underscoring the studio’s smart and sustainable strategy for reusing assets.

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2024-10-21 13:33