Not Quite A Yakuza

In the ever-changing landscape of Sega's Yakuza game series, the narrative thread has taken some unexpected turns, particularly with the transition from the beloved protagonist Kazuma Kiryu to the vibrant new lead, Ichiban Kasuga.

The Yakuza series, known for its unique blend of intense action, deep storytelling, and quirky side activities, has recently introduced Like A Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, a bridge between Yakuza 6 and the upcoming Yakuza 8, titled Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth. This narrative interlude offers insights into Kiryu's life post-Yakuza 6, where he was last seen faking his death to escape the yakuza life, thereby severing ties with his family.

Gaiden sees Kiryu, now operating under the codename Joryu, engaged in the clandestine dealings of the Daidoji faction. This role reversal for Kiryu, from a clan leader to a shadowy agent, marks a significant shift in his character arc. 

However, this change, while notable, does not necessarily elevate Gaiden to the heights of its predecessors in terms of storytelling. The game struggles to balance the novelty of Kiryu's new life with a sense of familiarity, leaving long-time fans and newcomers alike grappling with a narrative that seems to fall short of the series' usual depth and emotional resonance. 

One of the key aspects of Gaiden is its focus on combat. Kiryu, known for his prowess in physical confrontations, continues to resolve most conflicts with his fists. However, this heavy reliance on combat, especially compared to the rich narrative and varied gameplay of previous titles, feels like a step back.

The game's side missions, facilitated by the Akame Network and Akame Points, offer a break from the central story but lack the emotional weight and surprising twists that have become hallmarks of the series.