But it’s got tons of silly diversions inside of it, too
Since 2018, Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) has been undergoing a total brand transformation, moving away from its singular focus on Japan’s most famous criminal underworld organization and toward something less dour and po-faced. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth was a cheerful, determined celebration of the new series paradigm via Ichiban Kasuga and his merry band of middle-aged misfits, while also providing a fitting and emotional send-off for longtime franchise protagonist Kazuma Kiryu. By the time we rolled credits on the game, it seemed like a perfect place to bookend what once was in order to make room for what comes next.
At least, that’s what we thought Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio was going to do, until they announced Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. This sidequel to Infinite Wealth features ex-Tojo executive Goro Majima befriending a kid, donning a pirate hat, and sailing the seven seas after an accident strips him of his memory — and all the attendant series baggage that goes with it. For the first time since Yakuza Kiwami 2, players get to play as Majima, and for the first time since Yakuza 0, we learn what the man is really like underneath all the yakuza-themed guff. Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is one final loose thread to place in the tapestry of the old Yakuza games, and it is a wild ride indeed.