Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Demo Available Today

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has exciting news for fans of the Like a Dragon series: a free demo for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is set to launch today. Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via Steam, the demo can be downloaded starting at 7am Pacific / 10am Eastern / 3pm UK. However, gamers on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One won't have access to this demo, though they can look forward to the full game's release on February 21.

Announced via X/Twitter, the studio hasn't confirmed if progress in the demo will carry over to the full version of Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. The demo's design suggests otherwise, as it allows players to jump directly into specific freeroam and battle segments, deviating from the game's natural storyline.

In the demo, players get to explore parts of Honolulu and Madlantis, areas not immediately accessible in the complete game. They can also switch between the Mad Dog and Sea Dog fighting styles, engage in battles against formidable bounty enemies, and participate in four ship and deck battles at the Pirates' Coliseum. Additional features include new customization options and side activities such as karaoke with a choice of three songs.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a spin-off sequel to Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, the eighth mainline installment in the Yakuza / Like a Dragon series (ninth if you count Yakuza 0). The game follows Goro Majima, who wakes up with amnesia and embarks on a pirate's journey across Hawaii.

A trailer showcased at the October Xbox Partner Showcase gave fans their first glimpse at the game's ship combat, reminiscent of Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, and hinted at the return of Taiga Saejima, suggesting deeper connections to the main series than previously anticipated.

Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii promises a more extended experience than its predecessor, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, with a story that takes approximately 15 to 18 hours to complete. Enthusiasts can even dress up Majima as the iconic Kiryu Kazuma, but this special feature is only available to those who sign up for email notifications or join the Sega reward system.