Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii brings Goro Majima back to the forefront in a quirky pirate adventure set in the picturesque backdrop of Hawaii. This game marks Majima’s first lead role since Yakuza 0, moving the focus squarely onto the character’s unique charm, making it an exciting entry for fans.
The story kicks off six months after Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, with Majima awakening on a beach in the Pacific, suffering from amnesia. He remembers nothing of his past life, except for being rescued by a young boy named Noah. As the game unfolds, Majima finds himself embroiled in the search for a legendary treasure, transforming into a pirate captain while gathering a motley crew along the way. The mix of comedy and earnest moments reflects Majima’s character, who, despite his violent inclinations, reveals a caring nature through his interactions with others.
While the gameplay involves a balance of naval and melee combat, the overall narrative, though entertaining, tends to feel detached from Majima’s rich backstory. The stronger moments come from the game’s subplots, which range from whimsical to heartfelt, helping ground the player within the vibrant world of Honolulu. The diverse substories remain a hallmark of the series, blending lightheartedness with more emotional themes.
Combat emphasizes Majima’s quick agility, featuring a blend of classic beat-’em-up mechanics and new pirate-themed gameplay elements. The addition of crew management adds depth, allowing players to customize their pirate ship and strategize for naval battles. However, these battles, while visually satisfying with their over-the-top weaponry, suffer from repetitiveness as the game progresses, undermining the excitement they initially bring.
Despite a few technical glitches that may disrupt gameplay, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii stands out for its unique theme and Majima’s evolution as a character. While it lacks the deeper exploration of emotions one might expect, the overall enjoyment remains high. Fans of the series will likely find this pirate spin-off an essential addition to their collection, marked by its charm, eccentricity, and familiar combat.
