In the evolution of the Ryu Ga Gotoku series of Yakuza/Like a Dragon games, a period that now spans about two decades, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth stands out as possibly the best we’ve seen thus far. Looking back at the series, the franchise has undergone significant changes and introduced new mechanics, yet it has consistently maintained a large degree of depth and meaning to both its characters and its story. The themes of honor, connection, friendship, love and power have always been an integral part of the series, and in Infinite Wealth, they are woven into the fabric of a monumental action-RPG that is going to be one of this year’s best even though it’s only January. We are checking out the latest and possibly greatest in this franchise thus far…
What immediately stands out is that, graphically, the game is a masterpiece, with stunning visuals, vibrant colors, and meticulous details throughout – both in characters and environments. The story, which can be likened to cinematic masterpieces in how it’s told, explores intrigue and violence, balancing brutality in combat with a touch of silliness that prevents it from venturing into overly violent territory. The narrative in Infinite Wealth focuses on Kiryu and Ichiban Kasuga, navigating the aftermath of the Great Dissolution – which is the period where yakuza alliances dissolved, leaving former gangsters to find their way in the world. It’s a change that started when the seventh Yakuza titled wrapped up, and it’s come to full fruition in Infinite Wealth.
What begins as a seemingly straightforward task for Kasuga to track down his mother in Hawaii, quickly escalates into a complex and engrossing journey with twists and turns. The lengthy narrative unfolds as it introduces numerous characters, each with their own stories and subplots. The scope of the game is staggering in that sense, offering a plethora of activities that gradually open up to the player, ensuring there’s always something new to discover even after dozens of hours of playing.
In addition to characters, Infinite Wealth also introduces a variety of activities, from minigames that feel like Crazy Taxi to on-rails tram missions and picking up litter from the ocean. There are a few silly ones as well, dating through a Tinder-like app or even riding around on a personalized Segway. Larger tasks include managing your own island, and for a fun diversion you can catch Sujimon again, just like in the previous game.
The addition of Dondoko Island, essentially a game within the game, mirrors elements of titles like Animal Crossing, providing a surprising depth of gameplay amidst the other minigames mentioned earlier. The island management aspect involves keeping the island clean, catching bugs, upgrading and crafting, and inviting villagers to live there.
Combat remains a central focus of the gameplay, and every character in your party has a distinct job that comes with its own set of moves and skills. The introduction of new jobs, such as samurai, idol and detective, adds depth and strategy to the gameplay – and switching between classes is possible too. The combat system is exceptional, with a balance between knowing when to attack, buff your party, or go after the enemy. Elemental weaknesses and a variety of enemy types, which includes some creatively designed ones that prevent combat from being repetitive, contribute to the addictive nature of combat.
Friendship also emerges as a key theme in Infinite Wealth, and players spend a significant amount of their time building connections with party members, both inside and outside of the context of battle. Having and building up these relationships offers benefits, including exclusive team moves that can be crucial in fights – and look great as well. The depth of character development extends to both protagonists, Kasuga and Kiryu, with their unique journeys, traits, and unwavering loyalty. The writing and acting in Infinite Wealth are some of the best in the series, with emotional and moving scenes that resonate and stick with you.
While the game excels in many aspects, if we were to nitpick then some narrative scenes have a small tendency to run a little too long. But overall, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the best game yet in the series, combining an incredible story, a plethora of side activities, amazing acting, and sublime combat into a splendid action RPG. It not only builds upon its predecessors but also introduces new elements that make it a unique and unforgettable experience – and one that’s not to be missed.
Score: 9.2/10
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