Step into the neon-lit streets of Osaka, Japan, as you join Kazuma Kiryu in the action-adventure game Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name. Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, this game takes place three years after 2016’s Yakuza 6: The Song of Life, where Kiryu famously faked his death to protect his loved ones.
In Like a Dragon Gaiden, Kiryu, now known as Joryu, works for the Daidoji Faction and is living a less than happy existence. When a deal goes awry, he is sent to Sotenbori to uncover those behind the incident. Although the game is shorter than previous entries in the series, it is filled with plenty of rewards and side quests to keep players entertained.
One of the game’s new features is the Akame Network, where players can complete various tasks and chores while earning rewards. Additionally, there is the Coliseum, a battle arena with different challenges to conquer. The game also offers the return of Kiryu’s iconic brawler combat and introduces a new fighting style – Agent.
In addition to the engaging combat, the game provides a multitude of minigames and activities, including karaoke, darts, billiards, and classic Sega arcade games. The rich world of Sotenbori is filled with vibrant distractions and stunning sights to explore.
One of the game’s strengths lies in its emotional storytelling, where players get to see a side of Kiryu that they have never seen before. The game sets up Kiryu’s prominent role in the next mainline Yakuza game, making it a must-play for fans of the series.
Like a Dragon Gaiden also offers accessibility features such as multiple difficulty options and the ability to remap buttons, making it an inclusive experience for all players. Overall, the return of Kiryu as the protagonist makes Like a Dragon Gaiden a satisfying entry in the iconic Yakuza series.
