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Review
Like a Dragon: Ishin!
Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a remake of the 2014 Japanese game, part of the Yakuza series. It features familiar faces from the series in a parallel universe with new names based on historical Japanese figures during the samurai era.
Set in the 1860s, the game explores a turbulent period in Japanese history when the military Shogunate clashed with the Imperial system during a revolutionary era.
You play as Sakamoto Ryōma, a historical figure who faces a personal tragedy when his father is assassinated. Seeking answers, he infiltrates a dangerous group tasked with covert missions for the government.
The fictional city is inspired by historical Tokyo, with a rich and interactive world. Ryōma navigates political intrigues and dangerous alliances in his quest for justice.
Main and side characters are well-crafted. Voice acting is in Japanese with English subtitles. While immersive, some players may find the lack of English voiceovers a drawback.
The game blends drama with quirky humor, a hallmark of the Yakuza series. While veterans will enjoy it, newcomers might find the tone unusual at first.
The gameplay starts slow but evolves into a masterpiece with deep combat mechanics and exploration opportunities. You’ll unlock the full world after a few hours, rewarding patience with engaging content.
Combat offers four styles: bare-handed, sword-only, gun-only, and a mix of sword and gun. Each style has a unique skill tree, adding strategic depth to battles.
Exploration is rewarding, with hidden trainers and upgrades for your fighting styles. Listening to NPCs can reveal secrets, encouraging immersion in the game world.
Mini-games like karaoke and chicken racing provide light-hearted fun. These side activities balance the intensity of the main story, offering casual entertainment.
The graphics show significant improvement over the original, especially in character models. The music complements the historical and dramatic setting perfectly.
Side missions focus on historical context, offering 79 short but impactful stories. While not all are equally exciting, they enrich the setting and its characters.