Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
" Expansive action RPG with deep turn-based combat and vibrant open worlds but occasional pacing issues "
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Review
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is widely praised as a rich and expansive JRPG that builds impressively on its predecessor, Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Players appreciate its deep turn-based combat system, vibrant open worlds of Hawaii and Yokohama, and the seamless blend of heartfelt storytelling with absurd humor. The game delivers a massive amount of content, including a variety of side quests, mini-games, and unique features like resort-building and monster collecting, offering potentially over 100 hours of gameplay.
However, some players find the story weaker and more convoluted compared to previous entries, citing pacing issues and inconsistent character development. Technical hiccups such as crashes and minor graphical oddities are noted but generally do not overshadow the overall experience. Despite these flaws, the game is regarded as a must-play for fans of the series and JRPG enthusiasts, praised for its engaging gameplay and memorable characters, making it a strong continuation of the Like a Dragon franchise.
Highlights
Players consistently praise the turn-based combat system for its depth, strategic variety, and entertaining character classes. The graphics and world design of Hawaii and Yokohama are lauded for their vibrancy and detail, creating immersive environments. The storyline and character interactions receive commendations for balancing emotional depth with humor, especially the dynamic between Ichiban and Kiryu. Additionally, the extensive side content and mini-games like resort management and monster collecting add significant replay value and charm.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the story being weaker and somewhat disjointed, with pacing issues and underdeveloped antagonists. Some players find the turn-based combat pacing slower compared to earlier real-time entries. Technical issues such as game crashes, occasional frame rate dips, and minor graphical glitches like character blinking are noted. The high price and the paid New Game+ content are also points of contention. Certain mini-games and side quests, such as the resort simulator and Sujimon battles, are seen as repetitive or less engaging by some.
Pros
- • Deep and enjoyable turn-based combat with diverse, fun character classes.
- • Vibrant, detailed open worlds of Hawaii and Yokohama to explore.
- • Rich narrative blending heartfelt moments with humor and memorable characters.
- • Extensive and varied side quests and mini-games enhance replayability.
- • Excellent voice acting in both Japanese and English versions.
- • Strong character interactions and social bonding mechanics.
- • Improved gameplay mechanics and combat fluidity over previous titles.
Cons
- • Story is sometimes convoluted, weaker, and inconsistent in character development.
- • Turn-based combat pacing feels slow to some players compared to earlier games.
- • Technical issues include crashes, frame rate dips, and missing character blinking.
- • High price point with paid DLC for New Game+ content frustrates some players.
- • Certain mini-games and side content can feel repetitive or less engaging.
- • Some players find the vast side content overwhelming or distracting from the main story.
- • Narrative retcons and fanservice moments may disappoint longtime fans.
Rating Criteria
Two larger-than-life heroes, Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu are brought together by the hand of fate, or perhaps something more sinister… Live it up in Japan and explore all that Hawaii has to offer in an RPG adventure so big it spans the Pacific.
