Fans of the Yakuza series were surprised but also expected that the next franchise installment would be a pirate game led by the fan-favorite Yakuza protagonist Goro Majima. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii brings the franchise out in Japan, just like in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and sets things up on the tropical islands of Hawaii.
Considered a spin-off, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will still feel like the mainline games as it brings in new and old characters while making gameplay fun with new combat mechanics. Developer Ryu Ga Gotoku added naval battles and crew management so players can expect the game's ridiculousness meter to skyrocket. If you are as excited as us about Yakuza games, here's everything you should know about Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.
When Will Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Release?
Initially set to release on February 28, 2025, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will now be released on February 21, 2025, to give way for Monster Hunter Wilds. Pre-order bonuses include an Ichiban Pirate Crew Set and an Ichiban Special Outfit Set. The game will come in three different editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Collector's Edition. The Standard edition will have the base game, and the Deluxe or Collector's Editions will have the following bonuses:
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+ 2Deluxe Edition:
- Legendary Pirate Crew pack
- Legendary Outfit Pack
- Ship Customization Pack
- Extra Karaoke and CD Pack
click to enlarge + 2Collector's Edition:
- All the add-ons of the Deluxe Edition
- Physical Treasure Coin Pin
- Physical Eye Patch
- Physical Acrylic Standee
- Physical Pirate Flag
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Gameplay and Trailer
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii plays like a classic Yakuza game with a twist, with newly added naval battle mechanics. Majima will have two combat modes, the Sea Dog and the Mad Dog. The Sea Dog mode lets Majima utilize a cutlass and a pistol, which makes combat similar to a hack-and-slash, while the Mad Dog mode is Majima's classic and brutal speed-focused brawler combat. Both modes will now have the ability to jump and perform mid-air combos, making combat more dynamic with the use of different pirate tools and brawler skills.
Naval combat is a whole different thing in itself and players can customize their ship according to their liking. Players will have to navigate the rough seas and shoot heavy cannonballs against enemy ships using on-board cannons. Once players subdue the enemy ship, Majima and his pirate crew can board the enemy ship and trigger a crew battle, which will utilize Majima's two combat modes. Naval battles will play a big part in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii and players can participate in a pirate tournament once they reach the island of Madlantis.
Players will have the chance to stroll around different beaches on the island and enjoy the tropical city life of Honolulu.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Screenshots
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is vibrant and full of bright colors that reflect the game's beach and pirate theme. Madlantis, the pirate island, shows a much darker theme that combines the aesthetics of pirates and casinos. Check out the Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii screenshots below.
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What Platforms Will Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Be On?
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will be available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. Players can now pre-order the game on their preferred storefronts.
Excited to set sail and explore a new story in the Yakuza franchise? Be sure to stay updated on everything about Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii by following and subscribing to Gfinity Esports.
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