The latest installment in the series by SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, is finally here, putting the beloved Goro Majima at center stage. Let’s dive into the experience with our comprehensive review!
If you’re a fan of the series, previously known as Yakuza but now using its original name, Like a Dragon, you likely share my excitement. Having previously reviewed nearly every game in the series—apart from Like a Dragon: Ishin!, covered by ThaRaven403—I’ve followed the saga closely. From Yakuza Kiwami and its sequel Kiwami 2 on PlayStation 4 to Yakuza 5 back on the PS3, and even Yakuza 6: The Song of Life, I’ve seen it all. With the Yakuza Remastered Collection, I relived Yakuza 3, 4, and 5 on PS4. But now, it’s time to explore Majima’s new adventure.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is set in the aftermath of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. The story kicks off with Goro Majima, who finds himself shipwrecked and sans memory on a tiny place called Rich Island. Here, a boy named Noah Rich saves him, offering lifesaving hydration after a near-drowning. But just as things start looking up, pirates rear their ugly heads, bringing out Majima’s untamed side as they attack Noah.
You can adjust the challenge to your liking with three difficulty settings: Beginner, Standard, and Professional. The Beginner mode is perfect for those new to the series, offering light combat so players can focus on the narrative. Standard ramps up the tension, providing a fair test of skills. Opting for Professional is a bold choice, as enemies are relentless, punishing any slip-ups with powerful attacks.
Before long, you’ll be through a brief tutorial that teaches essential controls. Move Majima with the left stick, striking with Square and Triangle for dynamic combos. You can jump using X, adding aerial assaults to your combat repertoire. When the Heat gauge fills, unleash powerful Heat Actions with Triangle for significant damage.
Keep an eye on the Madness gauge too, located in the top left corner. As it fills, you can summon a Majima double using the R2 button, adding a strategic twist to battles. Bolstering your abilities is crucial for survival. Increase health, improve knockdown recovery, and unlock new attacks as you embrace your inner Sea Dog to triumph!
Nostalgia beckons as you navigate naval battles reminiscent of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. Assemble a crew to challenge the bad guys plaguing Rich Island and beyond. Recruit members as you explore and tackle main and side quests, further immersing yourself in this pirate world.
For trophy hunters, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a treasure trove. Collect a Platinum trophy across both PS4 and PS5 versions, with each offering separate lists. With 56 Bronze, 4 Silver, and a Gold trophy, the challenge awaits you. Achievements range from story progression to combat feats, ensuring a rewarding journey.
Despite being a spin-off, there’s plenty to savor. Remember to stock up on healing items and cook meals from ingredients you find to keep Majima in peak form. And if relaxation calls, the in-game SEGA Master System beckons with classics like Poseidon Wars 3-D and Fantasy Zone, along with collectible cartridges to expand your virtual library.
For $59.99, the Cross-Buy feature grants access to both PS4 and PS5 versions of the game. Or, go deluxe with the Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza Deluxe Edition for $74.99, which includes the Legendary Pirate Crew Pack, Outfit Pack, Ship Customization Pack, and Extra Karaoke & CD Pack.
This review was made possible by a PlayStation 5 copy provided by SEGA.
