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Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Item: Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Crime, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableJan 26, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperRyu ga Gotoku Studios

Overview

Two larger-than-life heroes, Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu are brought together by the hand of fate, or perhaps something more sinister… Live it up in Japan and explore all that Hawaii has to offer in an RPG adventure so big it spans the Pacific. Like a Dragon 8 is the next installment in the Yakuza series that will feature Ichiban and Kiryu as dual protagonists.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth impresses with its emotional depth and character development, earning praise for its blend of humor and serious themes. Critics laud the vibrant Hawaiian setting and the powerful arcs of Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu. However, issues like pacing, coherence, and underdeveloped antagonists mar the experience, with some calling the story meandering. Overall, while it delivers a compelling narrative for fans, its significant flaws prevent it from surpassing its predecessors.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its emotional depth and character development. Reviewers like Hobby Consolas and Cultured Vultures highlight the intense and human narrative that showcases the struggles and growth of protagonists Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu. The game is noted for its ability to blend humor with serious themes, as seen in GameMAG and The Games Machine, which appreciate the narrative's exploration of social changes and personal journeys. Critics also commend the emotional payoffs and character arcs, particularly in the context of Ichiban's search for his mother and Kiryu's legacy, as noted by GamingBolt and Atomix. Furthermore, the vibrant setting of Hawaii adds a unique backdrop that enhances the storytelling experience, with Slant Magazine mentioning its exploration of contemporary issues like colonization and xenophobia. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable weaknesses in the story's execution. Gamersky and GameSpot express concerns about the narrative's coherence, particularly in the second half, where it loses focus and suffers from pacing issues. Guardian and GamesRadar+ echo similar sentiments, emphasizing that while the story has engaging moments, it can feel meandering and lacks tension at times. The presence of underdeveloped antagonists and predictable plot twists, as mentioned by IGN Brasil, detracts from the overall impact of the narrative. Additionally, some reviews, such as Ragequit.gr and Wccftech, suggest that the pacing can be slow, which may hinder the engagement of players, especially newcomers to the series. In summary, the consensus among critics indicates that Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth presents a compelling and emotionally resonant story that resonates well with long-time fans of the franchise. While it features strong character development and a rich narrative landscape, several reviewers note significant flaws in pacing and coherence that prevent it from reaching the heights of its predecessors. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and RPGamer highlight the narrative's ambition and emotional depth, suggesting that despite its shortcomings, the game offers a worthwhile experience for players. Overall, the majority sentiment leans towards appreciation for the story's strengths, with acknowledgment of its imperfections, painting a picture of a game that is both engaging and flawed.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth impresses with its evolved turn-based combat, strategic positioning, and a robust job system that enhances character customization, earning praised reviews from critics. Despite some critiques on repetitiveness and class limitations, the game’s engaging side activities and overall innovation elevate it beyond its predecessor, delivering a rich RPG experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its evolution of the turn-based combat system. Many reviewers, including those from IGN Brasil and The Games Machine, highlight the dynamic nature of the combat, which now incorporates character movement and environmental interactions, making battles more engaging and strategic. The introduction of a job system, as noted by PlayStation Universe and Everyeye.it, adds depth and variety to character customization, allowing players to experiment with different abilities and tactics. Additionally, the game is enriched by a plethora of side activities and mini-games, such as those mentioned by COGconnected and Metro GameCentral, which contribute to a vibrant and immersive game world. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the gameplay. For instance, IGN Brasil mentions that while the combat system is dynamic, it lacks the depth seen in other RPGs and can become repetitive, particularly during grinding for levels and equipment. Similarly, Gaming Age expressed concerns about the limitations imposed by exclusive job classes, which may restrict player creativity and variety. Additionally, VG247 noted that while the gameplay loop is less frustrating than in previous entries, it still involves a fair amount of grinding, which could deter some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth significantly improves upon its predecessor, offering a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience. The enhancements to the turn-based combat system, the introduction of strategic positioning, and the variety of engaging side activities have been well-received, as highlighted by reviewers such as Press Start Australia and God is a Geek. While there are some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and class limitations, the majority of critics agree that the game successfully combines traditional RPG elements with innovative mechanics, resulting in a rich and satisfying gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" impresses with vibrant graphics and immersive environments, especially its stunning portrayal of Hawaii, earning praise from critics like Metro GameCentral and Digital Trends. However, it suffers from technical issues such as pop-in textures and outdated animations, due to its cross-gen technology, as noted by SpazioGames and Finger Guns. While the visuals are generally a step forward for the franchise, concerns about performance detract from the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

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: Infinite Wealth" have garnered considerable praise from various critics, particularly for their vibrant and immersive environments. Many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Digital Trends, highlighted the game's stunning representation of Hawaii, noting the detailed cityscapes and colorful landscapes that enhance the overall atmosphere. Critics like GamingTrend and God is a Geek emphasized the impressive character models and environments, particularly at night, which contribute to a visually appealing experience. The game also introduces a fresh setting that contrasts with previous titles, as noted by XGN and The Games Machine, allowing for a rich exploration of both urban and tropical environments. However, several reviewers pointed out notable shortcomings in the game's graphics and visual design. Critics such as SpazioGames and GamePro Germany mentioned technical performance issues, including pop-in textures and flat lighting, particularly in daylight scenes. The game's reliance on cross-generation technology has led to criticisms of outdated graphics and stiff character animations, as noted by Finger Guns and MGG. Additionally, some environments, especially in densely populated areas, were described as lacking detail, which could detract from the overall experience, as highlighted by RPG Site. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" offers a visually stunning experience with a vibrant new setting, it is hampered by technical limitations and some outdated graphical elements. Reviewers like Digital Chumps and PlaySense acknowledged the game's high production values and artistic direction, but many also echoed concerns about the cross-gen performance affecting certain aspects of the visuals. Despite these criticisms, the game is generally seen as a step forward in terms of visual design within the franchise, with a significant number of critics, including Generación Xbox and IGN Spain, recognizing its potential to captivate players through its rich and immersive environments.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth shines with an acclaimed soundtrack and immersive sound design, praised for its catchy tunes and emotional depth. Critics laud its diverse music and engaging sound effects, enhancing the gameplay experience. However, the English voice acting has drawn criticism for being overly dramatic and inconsistent, leaving some long-time fans dissatisfied. Overall, while the audio elements elevate the game, players should be aware of the shaky English dub.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

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: Infinite Wealth have garnered significant praise from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers highlighted the game's diverse and engaging soundtrack, which includes catchy electronic tracks, memorable battle themes, and nostalgic tunes from previous entries in the series. For instance, GameSpot noted the inclusion of a spiritual successor to a classic song, enhancing the emotional moments and capturing the franchise's essence. Similarly, PCGamesN emphasized the standout soundtrack with high-tempo beats and exceptional voice acting performances, while PlaySense appreciated the impactful sound effects that complement the game's dramatic and humorous elements. Critics like Shacknews and RPG Fan echoed this sentiment, describing the soundtrack as killer and near-flawless, respectively, underscoring its role in enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings, particularly regarding the English voice acting. Reviews from Vgames and XboxEra criticized the English dub as overly dramatic, which detracted from the immersion, while Xbox Tavern mentioned that the English voice for Kiryu did not resonate well with long-time fans. Additionally, Gamers Heroes and Push Square highlighted inconsistencies in voice performances across different languages, which could be distracting for players. Critics like Everyeye.it and Gaming Age also noted that while the soundtrack features memorable tracks, not many stand out, suggesting a lack of variety in certain areas. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth excels in its sound design and music, creating an immersive and emotionally resonant experience. While the soundtrack and voice acting generally receive high marks for their quality and ability to enhance gameplay, there are concerns regarding the consistency and execution of the English dubbing. Critics like Dexerto and MGG praised the emotional depth brought by the music and sound design, indicating that despite some flaws, the audio elements significantly contribute to the game's charm and appeal. As a result, players can expect a rich auditory experience, albeit with some caveats in the English voice performances.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" is praised for its emotional depth and strong performances, especially in the Japanese version, with standout work from Kazuhiro Nakaya as Ichiban. Critics commend the quality and accessibility of the voice cast, bolstered by a Chinese dub. However, the English dub faces criticism for language inconsistencies, dramatic delivery, and synchronization issues, leading to a mixed reception. Despite some flaws, the voice acting remains a strong highlight of the game, with many recommending the Japanese version for an authentic experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's charm and emotional depth. Several reviewers, such as ComicBook and PlaySense, praised the performances of main characters like Ichiban and Kiryu, noting that they effectively convey the emotional weight of the story. Critics like TouchArcade specifically lauded Kazuhiro Nakaya's performance as Ichiban, calling it one of the best in RPGs. The addition of a Chinese dub track, as mentioned by PCGamesN, further enhances accessibility, allowing a broader audience to enjoy the game's rich narrative. Overall, the voice acting is recognized for its quality, with notable performances that resonate with the characters' personalities, as highlighted by Generación Xbox. Despite the overall acclaim, some criticisms have emerged regarding inconsistencies and shortcomings in certain aspects of the voice acting. Critics such as Gamer.nl and GamingBolt pointed out issues with language consistency, particularly in Ichiban's English skills, which detracted from the immersion for some players. Additionally, the English voice acting has faced scrutiny for being overly dramatic or lacking emotional depth, as noted by Vgames and GamingTrend. Some reviews, like those from Gamers Heroes and GGRecon, highlighted that specific characters in the English dub did not meet the quality of their Japanese counterparts, impacting the overall experience. Furthermore, synchronization issues between spoken lines and subtitles were mentioned by GamersRD, which could confuse players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" features strong voice acting that enhances the narrative and character interactions, particularly in the Japanese version. While the performances of main characters are widely praised, some inconsistencies in the English dub and language issues have been noted, leading to a mixed reception in that regard. Overall, the voice acting is seen as a strong asset to the game, with many reviewers recommending the Japanese version for an authentic experience, as echoed by critics like Hobby Consolas and Shacknews. The combination of high-quality performances and emotional resonance makes the voice acting a noteworthy aspect of the game, despite some areas for improvement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" impresses with solid performance on Xbox Series X and PS5, delivering stable frame rates and minimal loading times. PC runs well on high settings, but faces traditional Dragon Engine issues like NPC glitches. While minor technical flaws exist, they don't overshadow the game's overall quality and next-gen appeal. Xbox Series X and PS5 are the top picks for a smooth experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" has garnered a generally positive reception across various platforms, particularly on Xbox Series X and PS5. Critics like IGN Spain and Pure Xbox praised the Xbox Series X for its excellent performance, highlighting stable frame rates and no crashes during extensive playtime. Similarly, on PS5, Gamers Heroes and Push Square noted a smooth experience with consistent 60 FPS and minimal loading times, contributing to an overall polished feel. On PC, reviewers such as RPG Site and PlaySense reported that the game runs well on high settings, with a stable performance that enhances the gameplay experience. However, several technical issues were noted across all platforms. On PC, critics like MGG and XboxEra pointed out traditional Dragon Engine problems, including disappearing NPCs and graphical glitches, which detracted from the experience. For PS5, while many reviews acknowledged the overall stability, some critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG mentioned performance dips in busier areas, indicating that the game struggles under certain conditions. On Xbox Series X, although performance was largely praised, minor issues were still reported by MondoXbox and others, suggesting that no platform is entirely free from technical flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" performs admirably across all platforms, with Xbox Series X and PS5 being the standout choices for a smoother experience. While PC players have encountered some frustrating bugs and graphical issues, the game remains stable and enjoyable on high settings. The minor technical shortcomings across platforms, such as frame rate drops in crowded areas or occasional graphical glitches, do not seem to overshadow the overall quality of the game, as many reviewers emphasized that it successfully utilizes next-gen technology and offers a compelling gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a replay value powerhouse, celebrated for its vast content and engaging side quests, including the Dondoko Island simulator. Critics praise its hundreds of hours of gameplay that entice players to dive deep into its world. However, the NG+ feature locked behind a DLC paywall frustrates some, potentially dampening replayability. While certain activities may feel repetitive, the game's rich variety keeps most players hooked for the long haul. Overall, it’s a must-play for RPG fans despite a few drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

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: Infinite Wealth is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game for its extensive content and engaging side activities. Reviewers like Twinfinite and Digital Trends highlight the abundance of side quests, mini-games, and unique features such as the Dondoko Island management simulator, which provide players with numerous opportunities to immerse themselves in the game world. Critics like IGN and God is a Geek note that the game offers hundreds of hours of content, making it appealing for players who enjoy exploring every aspect of the game. The variety of activities, from the Sujimon League to optional conversations that deepen character development, further enhances the replay value, encouraging players to return even after completing the main story. However, there are notable drawbacks that some critics have pointed out, particularly regarding the New Game Plus (NG+) feature. RPG Site and MGG express disappointment that NG+ is locked behind a DLC paywall, which may deter some players from fully engaging with the game after their initial playthrough. This sentiment is echoed by Tech-Gaming and Vgames, who emphasize that the absence of NG+ as a base feature could diminish the overall replayability for certain audiences. Additionally, some reviewers, like Cultured Vultures and Digital Chumps, mention that while the side content is rich, some activities may become repetitive or may not appeal to all players, suggesting that not every aspect of the game will resonate equally with its audience. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among the majority of critics is that Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth offers significant replay value, largely due to its vast array of side content and engaging gameplay mechanics. Critics such as PCGamesN and GamingBolt affirm that the extensive optional activities encourage exploration and provide ample reasons for players to return to the game. Overall, while the NG+ feature's DLC lock is a contentious point, the game's rich content and diverse activities create a compelling experience that many reviewers believe will keep players engaged for hundreds of hours.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" is largely positive, with many critics praising its ambitious scope and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Windows Central and Game Informer highlight the game's rich story and plethora of activities, marking it as a significant improvement over its predecessor. Critics such as GamersRD and Cultured Vultures emphasize the compelling narrative and character development, suggesting that the game resonates well with both veterans and newcomers to the franchise. The vibrant setting and improved gameplay mechanics are frequently noted, with TouchArcade calling it a "masterpiece" that combines storytelling with engaging gameplay, while GamesRadar+ refers to it as one of the best RPGs in years. However, despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings. Gamersky and MGG mentioned narrative shortcomings and pacing issues, indicating that the game may leave some fans, particularly those invested in the series' lore, feeling disappointed. Additionally, concerns about monetization choices were raised by MGG, suggesting that some elements may detract from the overall experience. Critics like GameSpot and Eurogamer Poland also acknowledged flaws, such as grind elements and technical issues, which could affect the gameplay experience for some players. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" is a remarkable entry in the franchise, celebrated for its engaging story, diverse gameplay, and overall production quality. While some reviewers like Dexerto and Wccftech noted flaws in the narrative and pacing, the majority agree that the game successfully builds on the strengths of its predecessors, making it a must-play for fans of the series. Critics such as God is a Geek and WellPlayed even go as far as to label it as one of the best RPGs ever made, solidifying its place as a significant title in the gaming landscape. Overall, this game not only honors the legacy of its characters but also paves the way for future installments.

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" is receiving rave reviews for its ambitious storytelling, engaging gameplay, and vibrant setting, with critics hailing it as a significant improvement over its predecessor. While many praise its character development and diverse activities, some highlight narrative pacing issues and monetization concerns. Despite these flaws, the consensus is that this RPG is a must-play, solidifying its status as one of the best in the genre and a worthy continuation of the franchise's legacy.

MONSTER

Reviews

227 reviews found

100

Pure Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jan 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is considered the best Yakuza game to date, with a big fat 10 out of 10 rating.

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100

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Jan 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is described as the greatest in the series, a masterpiece that improves on its predecessors with a deep story and engaging gameplay.

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100

TouchArcade

Jan 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a masterpiece that combines compelling storytelling, engaging gameplay, and a wealth of content, earning the highest recommendation.

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100

Voxel

PlayStation 5

Jan 29, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a love letter to fans, combining humor with serious themes and delivering a high-quality experience that stands out in the franchise.

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100

ComicBook

Jan 31, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a near-perfect game that excels in storytelling, gameplay, and character development, making it a must-play for fans.

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100

But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

Jan 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review describes the game as a masterpiece and a worthy sendoff for the legendary character. It also mentions that it feels like a victory lap while paving the way for the future of the franchise.

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100

Comicbook.com

Jan 31, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a near-perfect game that excels in storytelling, gameplay, and character development, making it a must-play for fans.

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100

Eurogamer Portugal

PlayStation 5

Feb 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is hailed as one of the best games from the studio, combining traditional elements with new heights, making it a must-play for JRPG fans.

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100

GamesHub

PlayStation 5

Jan 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly recommended and receives a five-star rating.

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100

GGRecon

PlayStation 5

Jan 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is praised as a modern classic that evolves the series with polished mechanics, a compelling story, and strong character development, marking a fitting transition for the franchise.

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