Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
" Vibrant action-adventure RPG with fresh combat and pirate themes but technical issues and weak story "
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Review
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii offers a unique spin-off experience starring the iconic Goro Majima in a pirate-themed adventure set in Hawaii. Players enjoy a blend of classic Yakuza combat with new pirate mechanics, including ship battles and crew management. The game features a vibrant, colorful setting and a generally fun gameplay loop, though it reuses many assets from the previous title, Infinite Wealth. While Majima's character remains a highlight, the story is notably shorter and less developed than typical entries in the series, with a more lighthearted and family-friendly tone.
Critically, the naval combat and side content receive mixed reactions—engaging at times but tedious or shallow in others. Technical issues such as frequent crashes and limited auto-saving detract from the experience. The game is best enjoyed at a discounted price, especially for fans of the franchise who appreciate Majima's return and the fresh pirate motif, but it falls short of a full AAA release's expectations in scope and narrative depth.
Highlights
Players praise the fun and fluid combat mechanics, especially Majima's moveset and the addition of pirate-themed abilities like grappling hooks. The Hawaiian setting is vibrant and immersive, providing a colorful backdrop that contrasts well with the series' usual urban tone.
The ship combat and crew management systems add strategic variety, with large-scale battles and customizable armaments offering engaging challenges. Majima as protagonist remains a strong draw, delivering nostalgic and entertaining moments. The English voice acting, particularly Matthew Mercer's performance, is well-received, enhancing the game's charm.
Side quests involving crew recruitment and the Pirate Coliseum provide rewarding gameplay loops, and the game's accessibility options make it approachable for a wide audience.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the heavy reuse of assets from Infinite Wealth, making exploration feel repetitive and uninspired. The main story is considered short, weak, and lacking emotional depth, with some players finding the writing and character development underwhelming compared to previous Yakuza titles.
Naval combat is often described as sluggish, tedious, and shallow, with ship management mechanics interrupting gameplay flow. Technical issues such as frequent crashes and limited auto-save points frustrate players. The family-friendly tone and absence of romantic or cabaret content detract from the series' traditional grit and mature themes.
Overall, the game feels more like a paid DLC than a full-priced AAA release, leading to concerns about value for money.
Pros
- • Majima's combat and pirate-themed moves are fresh and entertaining additions.
- • Vibrant Hawaiian setting offers a colorful and immersive atmosphere.
- • Ship combat and crew management add strategic depth and variety.
- • English voice acting, especially Matthew Mercer's, enhances character charm.
- • Side quests involving crew recruitment are engaging and rewarding.
- • Pirate Coliseum provides challenging and fun late-game content.
- • Accessibility options make the game approachable for diverse players.
Cons
- • Heavy asset reuse from Infinite Wealth leads to repetitive environments.
- • Main story is short, weak, and lacks emotional impact.
- • Naval combat is sluggish, tedious, and sometimes frustrating.
- • Frequent crashes and limited auto-save points disrupt gameplay.
- • Family-friendly tone undermines the series' traditional grit.
- • Side content often feels recycled and lacks originality.
- • Ship management interrupts combat flow and adds tedium.
Rating Criteria
Embark on an over-the-top, modern-day pirate adventure with an ex-yakuza, now pirate captain & his crew. Engage in exhilarating combat on land and sea in the hunt for lost memories and treasure.
