Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth:, the most recent portion in the series previously known as “Yakuza,” accomplishes a surprising accomplishment. While its ancestor effectively changed the series from activity experience to a cutting edge JRPG focused on the existences of jolly hoodlums, it staggered en route with huge difficulties. In spite of the fact that I found delight in the past game, issues like unexpected trouble spikes and a wandering center demonstration in the end drove me to separate prior to arriving at the end credits.

 Infinite Wealth takes the laid out layout, suggestive of titles like Dragon Quest, and irons out the harsh edges, giving a smoother experience to the two newbies and prepared establishment lovers. The requirement for dreary crushing meetings has been annihilated, however the choice remaining parts for the people who look for overpowering power. The story feels all the more uniformly paced, and players presently have the capacity to avoid through a significant number of the extended Yakuza-style cutscenes, limiting interferences dependent exclusively upon understanding rate. Fundamentally, while the main Like a Winged serpent was estimable, Infinite Wealth outperforms it in each viewpoint.

One of the refreshing aspects of the game is its departure from Japan. After numerous iterations set in the familiar “Like a Yakuza” version of Japan, which despite gameplay tweaks, was beginning to feel repetitive, the decision to shift the action elsewhere breathes new life into the series. This time, our endearing protagonist Ichiban Kasuga embarks on a journey to Honolulu, Hawaii, in search of his long-lost birth mother. Despite the change in scenery, the game cleverly integrates familiar faces, such as series favorite Kazuma Kiryu, whose own quest intersects with Ichiban’s in unexpected ways.

Similar to its predecessors, Infinite Wealth delves into a gritty crime narrative at its core. With a backdrop of bloody murders and ruthless underworld politics, the stakes for our characters are undeniably high. Yet amidst the chaos, the game dares to explore various avenues to captivate and entertain its players. Embracing the series’ trademark tonal shifts, Infinite Wealth offers a delightful contrast; while following the main storyline offers a traditional Mafia-style crime saga, why limit yourself to just that? Instead, indulge in the game’s whimsical diversions like dolphin rides, orchestrating romantic encounters for your pet crawfish and horseshoe crab, or assembling defeated foes into your own Pokémon-esque team of “Sujimon”. 

Infinite Wealth wholeheartedly embraces what could politely be termed “distraction-based gameplay elements” or less politely, “videogame dissociative identity disorder”. Its wildly eclectic nature establishes a three-ring circus of gameplay mechanics, ensuring that every few steps through the beautifully rendered version of Honolulu, players encounter enticing distractions from the main narrative.

In addition to the usual dating minigames, Sega arcade machines, and karaoke, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth introduces a staggering array of side activities. Sprinkled across the game’s map are countless entertaining distractions, beckoning players to lose themselves for hours on end. Fancy delivering food on your bike? Perhaps you’re keen on earning rewards by tidying up the beach. And don’t overlook delving deeper into that underground dungeon. Strengthen your bonds by purchasing presents and food for your circle of friends. Utilize the game’s new social media app to make connections all over Honolulu. 

Even collect fortunes from the ground to gain increasingly potent buffs. But it’s the substantial undertakings that truly stand out. Take, for instance, the unexpected diversion in the middle of Chapter Six, where Infinite Wealth unveils an entirely new game within itself. Our intrepid protagonist Ichiban finds himself whisked away to an island resort plagued by pirate infestation and litter strewn about. Ever the noble soul, Ichiban takes it upon himself to restore order to the resort by cleaning up the mess. Without delving into all the mechanics at play, it’s akin to stumbling upon a miniature Dreamlight Valley game nestled within Like a Dragon. Gather resources, fend off pirates, construct a new resort, adorn your abode, and even indulge in some fishing!

The breadth and richness of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth are truly remarkable, matched only by the sheer addictive joy it offers. Boasting an abundance of new mechanics, minigames that could stand as standalone experiences, and a cast of compelling characters, this colossal action/RPG masterpiece stands as a pinnacle of value in the realm of AAA gaming. Like a Dragon stops at nothing to keep you entertained. If you haven’t already, it’s high time to jump aboard this thrilling journey.

Rating: 9.5/10