RGG Studios’ latest offering to the acclaimed Yakuza/Like a Dragon franchise, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, is already shaping up to be a showstopper.
The title, which broke cover during the Summer Game Fest as part of the not-so-E3 announcement season, sees a familiar face in Kazuma Kiryu making a much-anticipated return on November 9.
Fans of the franchise know that this isn’t the first Like a Dragon title to hit the shelves this year – RGG Studios set the stage earlier this year with the release of Like a Dragon: Ishin, a remake of the previously Japan-only game.
The Man Who Erased His Name explores Kiryu’s enigmatic fate following the events of Yakuza 6 while also bridging the gap to Yakuza: Like a Dragon. The narrative delves into the actions of the former legendary Yakuza after faking his death in a bid to safeguard his loved ones. However, his quiet life in the shadows is upended by an enigmatic figure attempting to drag him back into the world he left behind.
Taking on the codename ‘Joryu’, Kiryu embarks on a brand new thrilling action-packed narrative, grappling with bone-crushing combat, intriguing characters, and bustling locations.
The game promises a return to the beloved real-time action combat, eschewing the turn-based format seen in Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Players will relish the opportunity to switch between two dynamic fighting styles. First, the Yakuza style allows players to demonstrate Kiryu’s raw power and flair, while the new Agent style introduces a variety of high-tech gadgets and emphasizes speed, precision, and swift strikes. Gadgets such as electrified bind wires can stun and dispatch foes in a thoroughly satisfying manner.
Beyond the high-stakes action, Yakuza fans can expect their favorite downtime activities to make a comeback. Whether it’s unwinding at a karaoke bar, honing skills at a battle arena, or reliving nostalgia with the classic Pocket Circuit mini-game, the game ensures there’s never a dull moment.
There’s also an interesting pre-order incentive available for long-time series fans: the Legendary Fighter Pack. This bonus pack adds iconic series characters Daigo Dojima, Goro Majima, and Taiga Saejima, although their roles in the final game remain a mystery.
The anticipation doesn’t stop there. With the plot of Like a Dragon: Gaiden serving as a lead-up to Like a Dragon 8, plenty of fans believe that we will continue to see more of the new series protagonist Ichiban Kasuga in the 2024 installment.
In a world where sequels often rehash the same material, RGG Studios’ offering presents a refreshing departure. Kiryu and his journey in The Man Who Erased His Name promises a balance of exploration, action, and rich sub-missions, immersing players in the vibrant landscapes of Sotenbori, Yokohama, and the enigmatic Castle.
In the interim, if fans are itching for a taste of Yakuza’s unique brand of action, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is readily available for download and play on Xbox Game Pass. It’s been lauded as one of the best Xbox Game Pass games and, more generally, one of the best Xbox Series X games due to its compelling storyline, innovative premise, and distinctive humor.
There you have it – Kazuma Kiryu’s legacy continues, and with it, the promise of yet another gripping Yakuza saga.
The series might be long-standing, but with The Man Who Erased His Name, it’s clear that there’s plenty of life left in this fan-favorite franchise. Mark your calendars and steel yourselves for November 9 – Kiryu’s story isn’t over just yet.
