Yakuza Adventure Embarks on Swashbuckling Seas

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will expertly blend serious drama with over-the-top comedic elements, according to developer RGG Studio. Discover the game's unique features below! Introducing a "Serious" Majima

A Manly Drama with a Touch of Mayhem

The latest Like a Dragon installment pushes the boundaries of reality while delivering a compelling "manly drama," RGG Studio revealed in an interview with Automaton Media.

While the series is celebrated for its humor—with Majima often cited as one of the funniest characters—director Masayoshi Yokoyama notes this iteration will feature a "more serious" Majima, particularly at the story's outset.

Producer Ryosuke Horii elaborates, emphasizing the core "manly drama" focusing on Majima's passionate pursuit of his goals and the bonds he forges throughout his extravagant journey. "The humor isn't the main focus—there's a serious, masculine narrative at its heart. Naturally, there are some wild detours, but it's fundamentally a straightforward story about a passionate man."

Horii highlights Majima's unique qualities, absent in long-time protagonist Kazuma Kiryu. As translated by Automaton: "If we didn't leverage that, there'd be no point in making Majima the protagonist. That's why we blurred the lines of reality more than with Kiryu, aiming for richly varied action. … Striking a balance between the pirate elements, Majima's personality, and the core 'Ryu ga Gotoku' feel was challenging."

The game aims for a perfect blend of realism and extravagance, avoiding predictability. The team's commitment to a "wilder" gameplay experience, while maintaining a serious narrative, is evident.

Majima's Maji Festival Across Japan

To celebrate the upcoming release, RGG Studio is hosting Majima's Maji Festival in six Japanese cities. Beginning December 1st, 2024, in Sapporo, the tour concludes in Nagoya (January 18th) and Tokyo (January 25th).

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, starring the "Mad Dog of Shimano," Goro Majima, promises an unparalleled modern-day pirate adventure with thrilling combat, naval battles, memorable characters, and a gripping storyline.

Launching February 21st on PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.