Absurd Fun Awaits

What happens when you mix Yakuza, pirates, and Hawaii? You get the most absurd entry in the Like a Dragon series yet. And yes, it's as wild as it sounds.

Two pirates in period costume, one holding a mug, are talking.
Photography by Damian Santana on Unsplash
Published: Friday, 15 November 2024 00:12 (EST)
By Sarah Kim

RGG Studios and Sega have done it again, folks. Just when we thought the Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) series couldn't get any crazier, they drop Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii on us. If you're a fan of the series, you already know it's famous for its over-the-top action, quirky characters, and bizarre storylines. But this time, they've really outdone themselves. Goro Majima, the fan-favorite madman, is now a pirate captain. Yes, you read that right—Majima is leading a crew of pirates in Hawaii. And it's as bonkers as it sounds.

So, what's the deal with this game? Well, it takes place a year after the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and our boy Majima has somehow washed up on an island near Hawaii with no memory of how he got there. Classic Majima, right? He’s helped by a kid with a pet tiger cub (because why not?), and before you know it, he's tangled up with pirates and becomes a captain himself. If you're not already sold on the sheer ridiculousness of this premise, I don't know what to tell you.

Why You Should Care

Now, I know what you're thinking: "Do I really need another Like a Dragon game in my life?" The answer is a resounding YES. Here's why. First off, the game introduces two new fighting styles for Majima: Mad Dog and Sea Dog. Mad Dog lets you unleash Majima’s signature chaotic energy with speed, agility, and flair, while Sea Dog has you dual-wielding short swords and using pirate tools. Yes, pirate tools. This is the kind of absurdity we live for in the Like a Dragon series.

But it’s not just about the combat. You’ll also be able to upgrade your ship, assemble your crew, and explore hidden islands. It’s like Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag but with more humor, more chaos, and, of course, more Majima. And let’s be real—who doesn’t want to see Majima as a pirate?

What’s Next for the Series?

With Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii set to release on February 28, 2024, the future of the series looks as unpredictable as ever. And that’s a good thing. RGG Studios has been cranking out these games at an impressive pace, and they show no signs of slowing down. In fact, there’s even a live-action TV show based on the series debuting on Prime Video in October, and the franchise is making its way to the Nintendo Switch with a port of Yakuza Kiwami. So, if you’re a Like a Dragon fan, there’s plenty to keep you busy until February.

But back to Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. This game isn’t just a side story—it’s a full-blown adventure that promises to be one of the most absurd and fun entries in the series yet. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the franchise, this is one game you won’t want to miss. So, get ready to set sail with Majima and his pirate crew. Who knows what kind of chaos awaits?

For more details, check out the full reveal on Engadget.

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