Introduction
The Yakuza series is a unique blend of over-the-top gameplay, comedy, and intense drama. With its new installment, “Yakuza 7: Like a Dragon” (LAD), the series takes a bold step away from its traditional beat ‘em up style, diving into the realm of turn-based JRPGs. This shift not only redefines the gameplay but also reflects a deeper narrative theme of transformation and finding a new home when the old one no longer fits.
A New Kind of Hero
In the Yakuza series, I’ve always been captivated by the mix of intense action and heartfelt storytelling. “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” stands out even more with its fresh take on the franchise. Unlike its predecessors, LAD adopts a turn-based combat system, signaling a significant departure from the usual third-person brawler mechanics. This change is more than a gameplay tweak; it symbolizes a narrative of reinvention, aligning perfectly with the story of the game’s protagonist, Kasuga Ichiban.
Losing a Home: Kasuga’s Journey
Kasuga Ichiban’s story begins with a profound loss. Banished from his Yakuza family, Ichiban finds himself in a world vastly different from the one he knew. The once familiar streets of Kamurocho have changed, and the places and people he once called home are gone. This theme of losing a home is poignantly portrayed when Ichiban, after 18 years in prison, returns to find his childhood hangout, Shangri-La, in ruins and his Yakuza family nowhere to be found.
Life At Rock Bottom
After a near-fatal encounter with his former mentor, Ichiban awakens in Yokohama, homeless and alone. He finds solace among a group of squatters, including Nanba, an ex-nurse who saves his life. This new environment, far removed from the Yakuza life, presents a harsh reality. Instead of extorting money, Ichiban now scavenges for survival, marking a stark contrast to his previous life.
Finding New Purpose
Despite his dire circumstances, Ichiban’s spirit remains unbroken. His journey in Yokohama is marked by small acts of heroism, like standing up to local bullies and defending his new-found community. These moments reflect his innate desire to protect and inspire others, a trait he carried over from his Yakuza days.
Building a New Life
Ichiban’s journey is one of transformation. From a “Deadbeat” to a “Freelancer,” he evolves by finding new goals and purposes. His ambition to become a “hero” mirrors the progression of a typical RPG protagonist, fighting through challenges to “level up” in life. This metaphor underscores the game’s theme of creating a new path when the old one no longer serves.
Conclusion
“Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is more than just a shift in gameplay style; it’s a story of transformation and new beginnings. Kasuga Ichiban’s journey from a lost Yakuza to a hero in a new city embodies the spirit of change and resilience. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, LAD offers a fresh perspective on what it means to find a new home and purpose in an ever-changing world.
Favorite Quote: “A home is a place you can go back to, no matter what. A place where people care about you, even if you’re not perfect”
Masumi to Ichiban
