Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)

This RPG system would be acceptable if it were one of the many mini games stuck in between the cutscenes. For the main dish, it’s way too slow an way too basic and the game content doesn't do it much favor. Every side quest is just visiting the same spot on the map multiple times to watch some cutscenes and to finally trigger a basic fight and every of Part Time Hero quest is either repeating the same actions multiple times or looking for a needle in a haystack impossible to complete without a guide (or being able to spend many hours going through the whole game map - that's a big no for me because I have some other responsibilities, like work and sleep). There are practically no dungeons, and if you finally find one, it's just a corridor.

I thought the story would keep me going through this game and I was genuinely interested in it but the there are so many cutscenes and the scripts are so goddamn wordy, I just can't bear to sit through them, despite the fact I love games focused on the story. After completing half of the game I noticed that the only thing that makes me play it, is the willingness to get over with it. I believe that's not what you can call fun, so I chose to quit playing this one.

I am still on chapter 5 since my last update. I have been grinding away and unlocked being able to change jobs. I wanted Nanba to be a Fortuneteller so I have been trying to hit level 20, but I also unlocked the Business Management mini game.

SOOOOOOO here's the TL;DR update

1. I became #1 in business mini game
2. I have been story blocked on Dragon Kart
3. I finished all the tests in the school.
4. I have completely upgraded Romance Workshop
5. I have built the Legendary Hero Bat for Ichiban

Tomorrow I will upgrade my bonds with people and continue the story.

It's been awhile since I gave an update here! I am in the middle of chapter 5 now.

I have become infatuated with Ichiban and the crew. While a bit reckless, Ichiban's demeanor and quick thinking (even if it is an idea with almost no chance of success) is endearing to me. His care for those around him who are down on their luck is so sweet. He is a great look at someone who is steadfast in their beliefs, and loyal to a fault.

Even with all that has happened to him and with the help from his newfound friends, he is quickly carving out his own legacy in Yokohama, making it a better place for those who are in need. I also love how his overactive imagination is portrayed in the game, the battles have been a delight. I just unlocked the ability to swap jobs, and its all a bit overwhelming but I am ready to spend a lot of time trying out different combinations!

Kiryu was a wonderful character with a beautiful arc, Majima's crazy mannerisms and loyalty to his brothers in arms made him lovable (even if they kinda pushed him out a bit in the later games), but Ichiban has quickly become my "Number One" Yakuza character. I cannot wait to play more ^^

Streaming this one so friends can watch but it's been a blast so far. While I am a fan of action combat, this is a really fun way to handle turn based fighting. It is reminiscent of some older turn based RPGs like Wild Arms 3 and adds a bit of variety to the field. Also having to be careful of enemy positioning if you're moving past them for an attack is fun to think about.

I'm not very far in, I only just finished chapter 2 which left on a HUGE cliffhanger, but I am super excited to get right back in there!

Ichiban is the best!