LIKE A DRAGON GAIDEN Full Gameplay Walkthrough / No Commentary 【Stream 】 Part - 2

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"Like a Dragon Gaiden" takes place in the narrative gap between "Yakuza 6: The Song of Life" and "Yakuza: Like a Dragon". In the previous game, Kiryu faked his death to protect those he cares for, including the children at the Morning Glory Orphanage. Now, under the alias "Joryu" and working for the enigmatic Daidoji faction, Kiryu is thrust back into the world of crime and chaos he sought to escape.

The narrative delves into Kiryu's struggle with his identity, his past, and the moral complexities of his current life. It's a story about sacrifices, the impact of one's choices, and the longing for peace in a life defined by violence. The game's plot is relatively concise, centered around a few key events that are pivotal in setting up the future mainline entries, particularly "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth".

Kazuma Kiryu/Joryu: The game does an exceptional job of exploring Kiryu's internal conflict. His character is fleshed out with moments of vulnerability, showing his human side beyond the stoic, invincible image he's known for. The narrative provides a deeper insight into his motivations for continuing to fight despite his supposed retirement from the yakuza life.
Akame: A new character introduced as a hostess with a vast information network, she adds a layer of intrigue and support to Kiryu's journey. Her character is compelling, offering both comic relief and critical plot development.
Returning Characters: The game brings back familiar faces, each adding to the narrative with their own subplots or interactions with Kiryu. Their presence adds nostalgia and continuity to the series' rich tapestry of characters.

While the primary narrative is engaging and emotionally resonant, particularly in how it handles Kiryu's character arc, some critics have pointed out that the story feels somewhat constrained due to its role as a setup for future games. The plot might not stand alone as powerfully as some other entries, but it excels in its character-driven moments and in providing fans with closure and anticipation for what's to come.

Dual Fighting Styles: 'Like a Dragon Gaiden' reintroduces Kiryu's classic brawler combat but spices it up with two distinct styles:
Yakuza Style: The traditional hard-hitting, close-quarters combat fans are accustomed to.
Agent Style: Incorporates gadgets like a Spider watch for grappling, drones for distraction, and rocket shoes for quick movement, adding a layer of strategy and flair reminiscent of spy thrillers.
Combat Fluidity: The transition between styles is seamless, allowing for a dynamic rhythm in fights that can be both brutal and balletic. The combat feels fresh yet retains the series' signature hard-hitting feel.
Coliseum Mode: A highlight is the Coliseum, where players can engage in various battles, including team-based fights. This mode adds replay value and showcases the depth of the combat system.

Extensive Minigames: From golf to darts, from karaoke to Sega arcade classics, the game offers a plethora of activities. The inclusion of live-action hostess dating adds an interesting, if somewhat awkward, interactive dimension.
Substories: Known for their humor and heart, substories in Gaiden are less numerous but retain the quality storytelling that fans expect. These side quests integrate well with the main narrative, often providing comic relief or poignant moments.

Setting: The game returns to Sotenbori, a familiar locale from previous games, but with updated graphics and new areas like The Castle, a pleasure dome on a ship. This setting is smaller than typical Yakuza maps, which can sometimes feel limiting but also promotes a more focused experience.
Visuals and Atmosphere: Thanks to the power of next-gen hardware, "Like a Dragon Gaiden" looks better than ever. The detail in character models, the vibrancy of the neon lights of Sotenbori, and the bustling life of the city all contribute to an immersive experience.

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Kazuma Kiryu and the Yakuza series. It might not have the groundbreaking scope of some of its predecessors, but it excels in delivering a tightly knit story, revamped combat, and engaging content. This game serves not just as entertainment but as a cultural touchstone for fans, weaving together past, present, and future in the saga of the Dragon of Dojima.

For fans of the series, this game is a must-play, offering both closure to one chapter of Kiryu's life and the promise of new adventures. For newcomers, it might not be the best entry point due to its reliance on previous lore, but it still stands as a strong, self-contained story with plenty to enjoy. With its blend of nostalgia, innovation in combat, and heartfelt storytelling, "Like a Dragon Gaiden" is a significant addition to the Like a Dragon legacy.