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Review of Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii on Xbox Series X/S

by Jay Aborro Jay Aborro photo Feb 2025
Cover image of Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii on Xbox Series X/S
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Released: 21 Feb 2025
Genre: Action-adventure, Beat 'em up, Hack and slash
Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Publisher: Sega

Introduction

Set sail to the wacky and wonderful world of 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii', where Goro Majima attempts to sift through the confusion of lost memories while basking in the sun of the Hawaiian islands. Yes, that's right; it’s a game where pirates, treasure, and majesty fuse into one glorious nerdy explosion. Grab your controllers because treasure awaits!

Gameplay

The heart of 'Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii' revolves around action-packed gameplay, centered on Goro Majima as he scuttles about four oddball locales: Rich Island, Madlantis (seriously, who named that?), Nele Island, and Honolulu. Expect to beat up enemies like it’s a casual Tuesday, delivering punches and cutlass smashes like a pro. The game introduces two marvelous fighting styles: the Mad Dog style, known for speed that would make even the Flash jealous, and Sea Dog, where Majima channels his inner pirate by wielding dual cutlasses and pistols. As if that wasn’t enough drama for one game, you also get to recruit a pirate crew and upgrade your ship, the Goromaru. Ahoy, matey! Your ship isn’t just for decoration; you can engage in real-time naval combat and even board enemy vessels to unleash a literal pirate brawl. Minigames make a return with karaoke, Dragon Kart races, and a new side quest, Masaru's Love Journey, offering a comic relief amidst all the brawling. Did someone say romance in a pirate game? Thank you, Sega! Retro 8-bit side games from Sega’s past will also make repeat appearances, which will have nostalgia junkies squealing with delight, reminding them what fun used to feel like.

Graphics

Now, let’s talk about those luscious graphics—there's only one thing more soothing than Hawaiian waves: watching this game unfold in high definition. The bright banana-yellow beaches of Rich Island pop vibrantly, while the moody shadows of Madlantis set the perfect backdrop for treachery and mischief. Environments are detailed enough to make you forget you’re in a game. Character models are sleek and expressive, giving Majima and his new crew all the juice they need to keep the players engaged. You’ll be too distracted by the beautiful aesthetics and the sights to notice the occasional silly glitch, but come on, pirates shouldn’t exactly act all prim and proper, should they?

Conclusion

'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii' takes the Yakuza saga into uncharted waters with a treasure chest of opportunities and wacky gameplay that absolutely shines, even if a few sea legs might wobble beneath you at times. It captures the essence of a true pirate adventure while infusing it with the adrenaline and plot twists fans have come to adore in the series. With its immersive environment, substance-filled gameplay, and colorful characters, it’s sure to earn its place in the hearts of both newcomers and seasoned Yakuza fans alike. Just remember: if Majima offers you anything resembling a pirate hat, run fast—those hats mean business. Gear up folks, it's time to raid the high seas and build your own legendary pirate legacy on February 21, 2025!

See Latest Prices for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii on Xbox Series X/S on Amazon

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