Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii takes the franchise in an unexpected direction, blending the iconic crime drama with swashbuckling pirate adventures. This narrative shift introduces tropical settings, fun mechanics, and a colorful cast that keeps the Yakuza series fresh and enjoyable. It’s an unabashed good time that proved a wonderful first Yakuza experience for a newcomer like myself.
A Refreshing Hawaiian Backdrop
Breaking away from the series’ urban streets, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii transports players to a vibrant and immersive island setting of Hawaii. The bustling streets of Honolulu serve as the central hub, while secluded beaches, pirate coves, and bustling markets provide dynamic locations to explore. Each area is packed with side quests, mini-games, and eccentric characters.
Crime Meets Piracy
The story follows Goro Majima, a notorious ex-yakuza, who suddenly finds himself shipwrecked on a remote island in the Pacific. Unable to remember even his own name, he sets sail in search of clues to his lost memories, accompanied by a boy named Noah who saved his life. Before long, they’re caught up in a conflict between cutthroat criminals, modern-day pirates, and other scoundrels over a legendary treasure.
The narrative thrives on its mix of intense drama, outrageous humor, and emotional depth—a signature of the Yakuza series. The unexpected pirate theme adds a fresh twist, introducing maritime conflicts and treasure-hunting escapades.
A Blend of Old and New
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii puts the turn-based combat system aside and focuses primarily on the beat-em up style action of its original days in the Yakuza series. However, it expands upon it with new mechanics tied to pirate-themed abilities. Players can recruit eccentric crew members, each with specialized skills like sword fighting, cannon strikes, or rum-fueled berserker attacks.
The game also introduces a ship-based combat system to further lean into the piracy of it all. Players can assign their crew, engage in sea battles, and uncover hidden loot scattered across Hawaiian waters. These additions elevate the gameplay, adding to the pirate tones it so strongly evokes. The silliness presented when operating a pirate ship with cannons and sails but also utilizing heavy machine guns and nitro fueled drifting is an experience I found such hilarity and joy in.
As expected from a Yakuza title, side content is rich and diverse. Players can enjoy activities like taxi deliveries, mini-games, and even pirate musicals.
Verdict
Like a Dragon: Yakuza Pirates in Hawaii successfully merges the Yakuza series storytelling with a swashbuckling twist. The combination of pirate adventures, light-hearted combat, and vibrant side content makes this a welcoming entry in the franchise’s amazing series. Whether you’re a long-time Yakuza fan or a newcomer, this tropical escapade offers a compelling adventure that shouldn’t be missed.
Title: Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios
Publisher: SEGA
Platform: PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Kurosh’s Verdict: 8/10
Reviewed code provided by the publisher. Reviewed on PS5.
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