Judgment
" Engaging action-adventure with dynamic combat and deep detective story but repetitive tailing missions "
Judgment Review
Judgment is widely praised as a compelling detective thriller set in the vibrant district of Kamurocho, blending narrative-driven investigation with stylish, dynamic combat. Players assume the role of Takayuki Yagami, a disgraced lawyer turned private detective, tasked with solving a complex serial killer case. The game offers a rich open world filled with neon-lit streets, diverse side quests, and mini-games that add depth and variety.
While the combat system is less deep than some other RGG Studio titles, it emphasizes agility and risk with a unique mortal wounds mechanic that increases challenge and rewards strategic play. The story and characters receive strong commendations for their emotional weight and engaging writing, although some players note pacing issues and occasional filler missions. Overall, Judgment stands as a strong standalone experience that honors the Yakuza series’ legacy while carving its own identity through detective gameplay and narrative focus.
Highlights
Players particularly praise Judgment's engaging storyline and well-developed characters, which bring emotional depth to the detective narrative.
The combat mechanics are appreciated for their stylish, fast-paced action and satisfying Heat Actions, despite being simpler than other entries in the series.
The graphics and setting effectively capture the atmosphere of Kamurocho with detailed environments, vibrant neon visuals, and immersive audio design.
Side quests and mini-games add enjoyable variety and replayability, with many highlighting the game’s unique blend of investigation and brawling.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the mortal wounds system, which some find frustrating due to forced healing trips during combat.
Several players mention the tailing missions as repetitive and tedious, detracting from pacing.
The combat is sometimes described as clunky or less varied compared to other RGG titles, with one fighting style often favored over the other.
Some feel the main story is overextended with filler missions and excessive backtracking, impacting narrative momentum.
Technical issues such as occasional crashes and awkward cutscene pacing were also noted but not widespread enough to severely impact enjoyment.
Pros
- • Engaging detective story with strong emotional depth and memorable characters.
- • Stylish and dynamic combat with satisfying Heat Actions and multiple fighting styles.
- • Detailed, vibrant recreation of Kamurocho with immersive neon-lit environments.
- • Varied and entertaining side quests that complement the main narrative.
- • Excellent English voice acting that enhances character immersion.
- • Unique investigation mechanics including tailing, forensics, and clue gathering.
- • Diverse mini-games and activities add fun and replay value.
Cons
- • Mortal wounds mechanic can disrupt combat flow and feel frustrating.
- • Tailing missions are repetitive and sometimes overly long.
- • Combat lacks depth and one fighting style is clearly superior.
- • Main story pacing suffers due to filler missions and excessive backtracking.
- • Occasional technical issues such as crashes and cutscene interruptions.
- • Some side activities lack motivation or rewarding incentives to replay.
- • Visual style is realistic but not particularly memorable compared to other titles.
Rating Criteria
Fight for the truth and uncover the twisted crime running deep beneath the surface of Tokyo. In this legal thriller , the balance between justice and mercy teeters on the edge.