Lost Judgment
" Immersive action-adventure with refined combat and rich storytelling but uneven pacing "
Lost Judgment Review
Lost Judgment is widely regarded as a significant improvement over its predecessor, particularly in gameplay and combat mechanics, offering one of the best fighting systems in the RGG Studio portfolio. Players appreciate the expanded open-world environment featuring two lively cities, Kamurocho and Ijincho, rich with side quests, minigames, and activities such as dancing, boxing, skateboarding, and drone racing, which add great variety and replayability.
The narrative tackles serious themes like bullying, justice, and corruption, delivering a mature and thought-provoking story. However, opinions on the story are mixed; while some praise its depth and emotional weight, others find it slow, unevenly paced, and less engaging than the original Judgment. The high school segments and related side quests often receive criticism for being tedious and repetitive.
Graphically, the game impresses with detailed character models and vibrant cityscapes. Despite minor technical issues and some pacing problems, Lost Judgment stands out as a compelling detective-action hybrid with strong characters and immersive gameplay.
Highlights
Players laud Lost Judgment for its refined and fluid combat system, often calling it the best in the Yakuza series. The addition of multiple fighting styles and seamless style-switching enhances combat depth.
The graphics and city design receive high praise for their detail and atmosphere, vividly bringing to life Kamurocho and Ijincho.
The storyline, while divisive, is recognized for tackling heavy themes with emotional resonance, supported by strong character development and impressive voice acting.
Side content, including numerous minigames and school stories, adds significant value and entertainment, with activities like dancing, boxing, and skateboarding frequently highlighted.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the main story's pacing and engagement, with many players finding it less compelling and at times boring compared to the original Judgment. The narrative is seen as uneven, with some plot points feeling predictable or disconnected.
The high school segments and associated side quests are often described as repetitive and tedious, especially certain minigames like robotics and biker challenges.
Some players mention technical issues such as loading problems during fights, awkward stealth sections, and minor bugs like NPC pathing glitches.
The skateboard mechanic receives mixed reactions, with some finding it awkward or frustrating to control.
Lastly, a few feel the game is bloated with content that sometimes feels filler rather than meaningful additions.
Pros
- • Combat system is highly refined and considered the best in the series.
- • Two detailed cities with vibrant, immersive environments to explore.
- • Wide variety of engaging side quests and minigames enrich gameplay.
- • Strong character development and emotional storytelling elements.
- • Multiple fighting styles allow creative and dynamic combat approaches.
- • Excellent graphics with detailed character models and atmospheric lighting.
- • Themes of justice, bullying, and morality add depth to the narrative.
Cons
- • Main story pacing is uneven and less engaging than the original.
- • High school segments and minigames can feel repetitive and tedious.
- • Some technical issues, including loading bugs and NPC pathing glitches.
- • Skateboard controls are awkward and frustrating for some players.
- • Certain side content feels bloated and not always meaningful.
- • Stealth sections are considered boring and poorly designed.
- • Occasional disconnect between side quests and main narrative tone.
Rating Criteria
When a police officer discloses the murder of the student teacher who bullied his son to suicide, the twisted secrets of a Yokohama, high school bleed out. Nothing, in this case, is black and white.