Set sail, young adventurers! 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii' takes us on an uproarious journey with our favorite flamboyant yakuza, Goro Majima. Picture this: Fresh off the shores of his last misadventure, Majima wakes up on a tropical island with no memory, a tattered pirate hat, and an insatiable thirst for not just treasure but hilarity. If you ever dreamed of swinging swords and throwing koi fish at enemies while trying to remember why you're drenched in oceanic brine, this game has got you covered.
Players dive headfirst into the vibrant, pirate-infused world of Hawaii with four captivating islands to explore: Rich Island, Madlantis, Nele Island, and the familiar Honolulu. The game strategically combines classic beat 'em up combat with refreshing naval warfare elements, as players assemble their own pirate crew and upgrade their ship, the Goromaru. Majima swings his dual cutlasses and does jaw-dropping mid-air combos, because apparently, gravity doesn't apply when you're a pirate of the high seas. The game features a plethora of side activities like karaoke (of course, because what's a yakuza game without belting out tunes?), Dragon Kart racing, and the new minigame 'Masaru's Love Journey'. Rumor has it that if you complete this quest, you may even unlock the secrets of the universe or just a really good pizza.
Visually, the game is a feast for the eyes! It captures the picturesque beauty of Hawaii paired with the eclectic charm of yakuza culture. Each character brims with personality, particularly Majima, who looks like he just popped out of a fashion magazine and a sea monster movie at the same time. From the colorful streets of Honolulu to the lush landscapes of Rich Island, every detail adds to the game's vibrant atmosphere. And let's not forget the satisfying explosions and over-the-top animations that bring a cartoony yet immersive vibe to the combat; the screen is practically begging you to stop and take a screenshot every five minutes!
In conclusion, 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii' is a triumph that takes the series, shakes it up, dreams up tropical fantasies, and vomits a rainbow of action right into your controller. Sure, the plot is a little convoluted with its loops and twists, but honestly, aren't we all a bit lost sometimes? Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this game delivers a wild, rambunctious ride, making it the ideal way to forget your troubles and, perhaps, remember to take your sunscreen! So grab your controller, your pirate hat, and prepare for a glorious adventure worth its weight in gold doubloons: A shiny 8.5/10!