Game Review, Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

The gaming world has long been characterized by various themed games Yakuza, especially traveling Yakuza Series developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku (RGG) Studio. Travel Yakuza This series starts from Yakuza 0which depicts the conflict between the two major clans, Tojo and Omi Alliance, until the series eventually underwent a name change. Like A Dragon (LAD).

At this point, a new main character, Ichiban Kasuga, is introduced. War between clans with various interests continues to be the main theme, supported by intense interactions between characters with unique personalities.

Of course, fans (like me) are curious about the continuation of the story of some iconic characters Yakuza/LAD Series. This year, RGG Studio continues the series with a little twist. Is it a new story about the war between yakuza clans? Apparently not. This time, the pirate theme is the main focus!

With the title Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, spinoff the latest from RGG Studio It is set six months after LAD: Infinite Wealth. The main focus of the story this time is Goro Majima.

In general, LAD: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii still maintains its distinctive features, starting from story-driven gameplay, various minigames, up to side quests with unexpected stories. System combat-Its back to the mechanism beat-'em-up traditional, in contrast to Infinite Wealth that use the system turn-based.

While many aspects of the gameplay in this series have been used in previous games, the concept of combining pirate elements with the yakuza world brings a new perspective to the experience. Like A Dragon Series.

A New Theme with an Interesting Point of View

Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii still presents a plot that continues with the previous series, but this time with a more unique approach. The premise is simple: the main character is stranded on an island in a state of amnesia, and must remember his purpose before embarking on an adventure against all odds.

Broadly speaking, the pirate theme is the new identity of Goro Majima and his crew's journey. However, the core of the story Like A Dragon remains the main foundation. The choice of location for the story in Hawaii also makes sense, considering that this region has been introduced before in the movie. Infinite Wealth.

In comparison, side story in Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii has a familiar pattern, but still feels fresh thanks to the unique interactions between characters. In addition to the island of Honolulu, Goro Majima also explores several other islands, although the land area is more dominant in Honolulu.

RGG Studio is known for using the same setting in more than one game with a combination of two to three different cities. For example, Kamurocho and Sotenbori are the most recurring locations throughout history Yakuza Series. But with the introduction of Ichiban Kasuga as the new protagonist, of course he needs his own distinctive location.

Simple but Fun Naval Combat Mechanics

The pirate elements in this game are not just cosmetic. Goro Majima actually plays a pirate captain with his own ship. Throughout the game, you'll spend a lot of time controlling the ship with his crew.

The concept of naval combat is simple: approach an enemy ship, shoot, and lose the ship that is destroyed first. Players have three main types of weapons that can be customized to deal with stronger enemies.

One of the twist interesting is deck battle, namely in the battle against mini bossGoro Majima and his crew can jump onto an opponent's ship that is about to be destroyed, and then fight in a battle of wills. combat physical on board.

Both at sea and on land, Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii doesn't want to burden players with overly complex mechanics, keeping it accessible and enjoyable.

Mad Dog and Sea Dog?

Like A Dragon Series still faithful to style combat beat-'em-upIt's also the one that appeals to longtime fans. It feels nostalgic and satisfying when using the Mad Dog Goro Majima's style. From Yakuza 0 to this latest series, combo Mad Dog remains varied and can be further developed through the point spending.

Shortly after the prologue, Goro Majima will adopt a new fighting style called Sea Dog which he obtained after getting his first ship. Using two curved swords (cutlasses), it has a series of combo unique new features, including the use of hook and gun.

These two weapons are quite easy to use and play an important role in certain situations, especially thanks to the new mechanisms, namely jumping attack.

When using Mad Dog Goro Majima's style has limitations in jumping attacks to hit specific targets, especially when surrounded by many enemies. But with hook from Sea Dog style, it can move quickly towards more distant enemies automatically. This is especially useful in dealing with opponents who use firearms from multiple directions.

Interface Needs Improvement

Although combat in this game feels dynamic and fun, there are several aspects of the interface (UI) that still need to be improved.

The large number of item types that can be obtained (although limited to 5-10 units per item), finding specific items becomes difficult due to the filtering system (filter) are limited. For example, different food items in each cafe or restaurant can only be consumed one at a time, with additional confirmation. yes/no, which can feel quite time-consuming.

In addition, there is no clear distinction between goods for questmaterial upgrade, or junk that can only be sold. As a result, players may accidentally sell important materials. The only clues are found in the item descriptions, which can be tiresome to go through one by one.

Conclusion: Dare to Be Different, But Still Fun

Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a bold step for RGG Studio in exploring the pirate theme without sacrificing its distinctive identity. The return of the combat beat-'em-upThis game brings both nostalgia and innovation to the combat system.

However, there are some aspects that can still be improved, especially in terms of UI and item management. For me, the challenge for RGG Studio going forward is how they will develop a new main character with a fresh background without losing the signature Like A Dragon Series.

Pros:

• Varied combat mechanics with the classic Mad Dog style, as well as the new pirate-themed Sea Dog style.
• Mechanism naval combat easy to learn and smooth navigation.
• Stories with abundant interactions with new characters
• There are so many side quests that can be done.

Disadvantages:

• Interface display inventory which can become complicated as more items are stored.
• The interface is sometimes less intuitive.