Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name cover image

Links

Steam

Playstation

Twitch

MONSTER

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name
Item: Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Drama, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 9, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperRyu ga Gotoku Studios

Overview

This game covers Kiryu's story between Like a Dragon 7 and Like a Dragon 8.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" garners mixed reviews; praised for its emotional depth and closure for fans, yet criticized for a predictable and lackluster plot. While some appreciate its noir elements and character development, others feel it's constrained and uninspired, failing to live up to the series' legacy. The narrative's tension is weakened by Kiryu's known fate, leading to a divided reception among critics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions surrounding the story of "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" reveal several positive aspects that critics have appreciated. Many reviewers, such as IGN Adria and Shacknews, highlight the emotional depth of Kazuma Kiryu's journey, noting that the narrative provides closure for long-time fans while introducing newcomers to his character. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Game Rant commend the game for its emotional weight and engaging narrative, suggesting that it successfully weaves together familiar characters and themes, making it a compelling experience. Additionally, outlets like Game Informer and GGRecon praise the story's noir elements and mystery, indicating that it effectively ties the old and new narratives together. However, the reviews also point out significant shortcomings in the story. Critics such as RPG Fan and Digitally Downloaded express disappointment with the plot's execution, describing it as constrained and lacking the creative energy expected from the series. RPGamer and GamingBolt echo this sentiment, noting that while the story has emotional moments, it ultimately lacks the strength and unpredictability of previous entries, featuring predictable twists and a narrative that feels written into a corner. Furthermore, some reviewers, like Eurogamer and PC Invasion, mention that the knowledge of Kiryu's eventual survival diminishes the dramatic tension, leading to a less impactful storytelling experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who appreciate the emotional storytelling and character development and those who find the plot lacking in originality and coherence. While many acknowledge the game's ability to honor the series' legacy and provide a satisfying conclusion for Kiryu, as seen in reviews from Pure Xbox and WellPlayed, others feel that it falls short of the high standards set by earlier titles. This duality in sentiment suggests that while "Like a Dragon Gaiden" offers an engaging narrative for some, it may not resonate as strongly with all fans of the franchise, particularly those who expected a more ambitious and unpredictable storyline.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" delivers thrilling combat and nostalgic vibes with its dual fighting styles and inventive gadgets, winning praise for its fluidity and engaging mini-games. However, critics highlight its shallow combat depth, recycled content, and technical flaws, alongside a short main story that leaves some players craving more. While it caters to series veterans, it may not fully satisfy those seeking innovation, positioning it as a solid yet somewhat stagnant franchise entry.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting its engaging combat mechanics and nostalgic return to the series' roots. Many reviewers, such as Gamer Escape and PlayStation Universe, appreciate the introduction of two distinct fighting styles—Agent and Yakuza—allowing players to experiment with different combat approaches. Critics like Shacknews and Game Rant praise the fluidity and brutality of the combat, describing it as some of the best in the series. The inclusion of new gadgets and tech, as noted by Digital Trends and Movies Games and Tech, adds an innovative layer to the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, the game retains a wealth of side activities and mini-games, which many players find enjoyable, as highlighted by RPGamer and IGN Spain. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including Siliconera and PC Invasion, point out that the combat system lacks depth and does not challenge players to fully utilize their techniques. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Digital Trends express concerns about the recycling of content from previous titles, leading to a sense of stagnation. Some players also noted issues with camera angles and control polish, as mentioned by TierraGamer and GamingBolt, which can detract from the overall enjoyment of the combat experience. Furthermore, the brevity of the main story campaign, as highlighted by PC Invasion, has left some players wanting more substantial content. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Like a Dragon Gaiden" successfully brings back the beloved action-oriented combat and offers fresh mechanics, it also suffers from a lack of innovation and depth in certain areas. Reviewers like WellPlayed and Cubed3 appreciate the balance between familiar and new elements, but many also echo concerns regarding repetitive gameplay and technical shortcomings. The game appears to cater well to longtime fans of the series, yet some critics, such as GamingBolt and Softpedia, caution that it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more evolved gameplay experience. As a result, the game stands as a solid entry in the franchise, but it may leave some players yearning for greater advancements in gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name impresses with vibrant, atmospheric visuals that capture urban Japan, especially in nighttime scenes. Critics praise the attention to detail, but many note that graphics feel outdated, heavily relying on recycled assets from previous titles. While the game's environments are lively, inconsistencies in graphical fidelity leave a mixed impression, with some feeling the visuals fall short of current-gen standards. Overall, it's a visually engaging experience that struggles under the weight of its own legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding the vibrant and atmospheric environments. Many reviewers, such as TechRadar Gaming and Atomix, praised the stunning visuals, especially during nighttime scenes, highlighting the impressive lighting effects that enhance the overall atmosphere. Critics like PC Invasion and COGconnected noted the game's densely packed neighborhoods and attention to detail, contributing to a lively depiction of urban Japan. The Castle area, in particular, received accolades for its gaudy, neon-lit aesthetic, as mentioned by Cultured Vultures, while IGN Spain and Pure Xbox emphasized the impactful visuals in both gameplay and cutscenes. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers pointed out that the graphics feel outdated compared to current-gen standards, with comments from Siliconera and Ragequit.gr noting the heavy reliance on asset recycling, including locations and character models from previous titles. Critics like BaziCenter and Eurogamer Germany echoed these sentiments, stating that the visual design shows minimal changes from earlier installments, leading to a sense of déjà vu. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Gamer Escape, mentioned that while the character models are of high quality, there are inconsistencies in graphical fidelity, with certain textures and surfaces lacking detail. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the graphics and visual design of Like a Dragon Gaiden. While many appreciate the game's vibrant environments and atmospheric presentation, there is a prevailing sentiment that the visuals do not fully meet the expectations for a late 2023 release. Critics like IGN Italia and Softpedia highlighted that the Dragon Engine, while capable, shows signs of age and could benefit from further updates. The game successfully captures the essence of its urban setting, but the reliance on recycled assets and less sophisticated rendering technology detracts from the overall experience, as noted by multiple reviewers. This duality in opinion reflects a game that is visually engaging yet hindered by its own legacy.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" garners acclaim for its standout sound design and music, with critics praising the immersive voice acting (especially Takaya Kuroda as Kiryu) and captivating soundtrack. While reviews highlight the audio's significant role in enhancing the game's narrative, some concerns arise about the soundtrack's engagement and its appeal to Western audiences, particularly in translation quality and perceived overdramatization. Overall, the game's audio elements shine, reinforcing the franchise's commitment to top-notch sound design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" have received considerable praise from various critics, highlighting the game's strong audio presentation. Reviewers like Cubed3 noted the "excellent" sound design, emphasizing clear voiceovers and immersive city soundscapes that enhance the overall experience. Similarly, GamingTrend and Multiplayer.it commended the top-notch Japanese voice acting, with the latter particularly praising Takaya Kuroda's performance as Kiryu. The soundtrack has also been recognized for its ability to complement the game's atmosphere, with MeuPlayStation describing it as "captivating" and Destructoid mentioning the return of beloved karaoke songs like "Baka Mitai." Overall, the critics agree that the audio elements contribute significantly to the game's narrative and emotional weight. However, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music that should be noted. Everyeye.it pointed out that while the Japanese voice acting is exceptional, the soundtrack felt less engaging compared to previous entries in the franchise. This sentiment is echoed by Softpedia, which mentioned that the voice acting might come off as overdramatic to Western audiences, potentially impacting immersion. Additionally, The Games Machine raised concerns about translation quality, suggesting that the sound design may not be as strong due to localization issues. These critiques hint at a divide in how the audio elements resonate with different audiences, particularly between Japanese and Western players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" excels in sound design and music, particularly through its voice acting and atmospheric compositions. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Generación Xbox highlighted the engaging music tracks and strong voice performances that enhance the narrative experience. While there are some concerns regarding the soundtrack's engagement level and the potential disconnect for Western audiences, the majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment towards the audio aspects of the game. As the franchise continues to evolve, it seems that the commitment to quality sound design remains a hallmark of the series, ensuring that it resonates well with fans.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" boasts critically acclaimed Japanese voice acting, especially Takaya Kuroda's powerful portrayal of Kazuma Kiryu, enhancing the game's narrative depth. While critics praise the emotional delivery, some note issues with dialogue pacing, the absence of full voicing, and a lack of English localization. Overall, the voice acting is deemed a standout feature that significantly enriches storytelling and character development, making it a major strength of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" has received widespread acclaim from critics, particularly for its Japanese performances. Reviewers such as Gamer Escape and Everyeye.it have highlighted the exceptional quality of the Japanese voice acting, with Gamer Escape noting the stellar cast and their ability to deliver raw emotion and depth, which enhances the overall narrative experience. Takaya Kuroda's portrayal of Kazuma Kiryu has been specifically praised by multiple critics, including Shacknews and TechRadar Gaming, for its emotional impact and commanding presence that adds to the game's immersive atmosphere. Critics like Cubed3 and DualShockers also emphasize that the voice acting serves as a strong point of the game, contributing significantly to character engagement and storytelling. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks related to the voice acting. For instance, PC Games mentioned that while the voice acting enhances the game's atmosphere, there are issues with dialogue pacing that could detract from the experience. Additionally, CD-Action noted that not all dialogues are voiced, suggesting a potential area for improvement. Softpedia mentioned that the performances might feel overly dramatic for some players, indicating that the intensity of the voice acting could alienate a subset of the audience. Furthermore, Ragequit.gr pointed out the absence of an English voice-over, which, while not detracting from their experience, could be a concern for players who prefer localized versions. The overall consensus among critics is that the voice acting in "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" is a standout feature that significantly elevates the game's narrative and character development. Reviewers like GamingTrend and Twinfinite affirm that the high-quality performances contribute positively to the storytelling, while others, such as Generación Xbox and IGN Spain, echo the sentiment that the Japanese voice acting is exceptional and integral to the immersive experience. While there are some criticisms regarding pacing and the lack of an English dub, the overwhelming sentiment is that the voice acting is a major strength of the game, effectively bringing its characters and story to life.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" shines on PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth 60 FPS gameplay and enhanced graphics, but faces criticism for a lack of polish and technical issues, especially on PS5. While the Xbox version impresses with 4K performance and quick loading times, some reviewers note flaws like clipping and pop-in, hinting at a rushed development. Overall, the game performs well but leaves room for improvement in visual fidelity and refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" has garnered a generally positive reception across various platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Critics such as Gamer Escape and Meristation highlight the game's smooth performance, with many reviewers noting that it consistently runs at 60 frames per second (FPS) without significant issues. IGN Adria even points out a leap in graphical quality and stability, adding HDR support, which enhances the overall visual experience. On the Xbox Series X, reviewers like Eurogamer Poland commend the game for running smoothly in 4K with no noticeable drops in performance, while Pure Xbox notes the short loading times and polished fighting mechanics, further emphasizing the game's technical strengths. However, there are notable criticisms regarding technical performance, especially on the PlayStation 5. Critics such as COGconnected and GamingBolt mention issues with the physics engine, pop-in, and a general lack of polish, suggesting that the game feels hastily developed. Digitally Downloaded and SpazioGames echo this sentiment, implying that the rapid development cycle may have led to a less refined product. Additionally, RPGamer and GAMINGbible mention minor technical issues like clipping and texture pop-in, which detract from the overall experience. On the Xbox Series X, while the performance is largely praised, IGN Spain acknowledges that the game showcases the Dragon Engine well, hinting at a reliance on existing technology without significant innovation. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans towards a positive view of the game's technical performance, particularly on the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. While many reviewers appreciate the smooth gameplay and solid frame rates, concerns about the game's development timeline and its impact on polish and visual fidelity remain prevalent. Critics like GamingTrend and The Games Machine emphasize that, despite some minor issues, the game performs well in most scenarios. Ultimately, while the technical performance is commendable, the feedback suggests that there is room for improvement, particularly in terms of visual advancements and overall polish.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" offers a mixed replay value; while packed with engaging side missions and a New Game+ option—making it appealing for completionists and series fans—criticisms arise over its short main story and repetitive gameplay, which may deter players seeking a deeper experience. Overall, it’s enjoyable but lacks the depth and polish of earlier installments.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" is mixed, with several critics highlighting the game's strengths in providing a rich array of side content and activities. Many reviewers, including PC Gamer and GameSpot, noted that the game offers a variety of side missions, minigames, and a Coliseum mode, which contribute positively to its replayability. Critics like GGRecon and Hardcore Gamer emphasized that the game is packed with engaging side activities that can keep players occupied for hours, while others, such as IGN Brasil and GamesHub, pointed out the emotional and nostalgic elements that enhance the experience for long-time fans of the series. The presence of a New Game+ option, as mentioned by GAMINGbible, also adds to the replay value, allowing players to revisit the game with new challenges. However, several critics voiced concerns about the limitations of the game's replay value. Siliconera described the game as lacking standalone value and feeling like a brief vacation rather than a full-fledged experience. Critics like Digital Trends and Eurogamer noted that the repetitive nature of the story and combat could detract from the overall enjoyment, potentially limiting players' desire to return after completing the main campaign. Others, such as COGconnected and IGN, mentioned that the game might feel too short for series veterans, with some side missions becoming repetitive, as highlighted by Areajugones. The overall consensus indicates that while there is a wealth of content, its execution may not be as polished or expansive as previous entries in the series. In conclusion, the consensus among critics suggests that "Like a Dragon Gaiden" offers a decent level of replay value through its side activities and engaging content, but it is hampered by a short main story and some repetitive elements. While many reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and GamingTrend, found enough to enjoy and explore, others felt that the game lacks the depth and innovation seen in earlier titles, leading to a somewhat diminished replay experience. Overall, the game seems to cater well to completionists and series fans, but may not fully satisfy those looking for a robust standalone adventure.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding "Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" is largely positive, with many critics appreciating the game as a satisfying addition to the Yakuza franchise. Reviewers from outlets like GameSpot and WellPlayed highlighted the emotional depth of the story and the nostalgic return of Kiryu, which fans found both engaging and rewarding. Critics such as Gfinity and Hardcore Gamer praised the game for delivering a compact yet enjoyable experience, emphasizing its blend of familiar gameplay mechanics and compelling narratives. The game is also noted for its engaging combat and a wealth of side activities, with several reviewers, including PC Gamer and God is a Geek, recognizing it as a worthwhile experience for long-time fans of the series. Despite the positive feedback, several critics expressed concerns regarding the game's lack of innovation and reliance on established formulas. Eurogamer Germany and GamesRadar+ articulated feelings of fatigue with Kiryu's character, suggesting that the series might benefit from introducing new protagonists or narratives. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Metro GameCentral pointed out that while the game is enjoyable, it doesn't bring enough new content to justify its existence, echoing sentiments of a need for fresh ideas within the franchise. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from MGG and Multiplayer.it, mentioned pacing issues and a flat story that detracted from the overall experience, indicating that the game may feel rushed or compact to some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon Gaiden" is a solid, if not groundbreaking, entry in the Yakuza series. While it successfully caters to long-time fans with its familiar elements and emotional storytelling, there are notable calls for innovation and new directions for the franchise. Critics like Game Rant and SomosXbox suggest that it serves as a bridge to future titles, particularly "Like a Dragon 8," while also being a nostalgic farewell to Kiryu. Overall, the game is recommended primarily for fans of the series, though it may not be the best starting point for newcomers.

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name" is a well-received addition to the Yakuza franchise, praised for its emotional depth and nostalgic return of Kiryu. Critics commend its engaging combat and side activities but note a lack of innovation and some pacing issues. While it's a solid experience for long-time fans, many call for fresh ideas and new narratives to rejuvenate the series. Recommended mainly for die-hard followers, it serves as both a satisfying sequel and a nostalgic farewell to Kiryu, setting the stage for "Like a Dragon 8."

MONSTER

Reviews

162 reviews found

100

VG247

Nov 6, 2023