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MONSTER

Like a Dragon: Ishin!

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Like a Dragon: Ishin!
Item: Like a Dragon: Ishin!
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

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

AvailableFeb 18, 2023

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

DeveloperRyu ga Gotoku Studios

Overview

Being remade from the ground up in UE4, this Yakuza spin-off returns us to feudal Japan in this remake for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, and Steam! Like a Dragon: Ishin! will be a remake of Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! from 22 February 2014. The original game only released domestically in Japan, but the remake will release globally in February 2023.

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Ishin! impresses with its gripping narrative and historical depth, drawing praise for its character-driven drama and exploration of loyalty and identity during Japan’s Bakumatsu era. Critics laud Sakamoto Ryōma's revenge-fueled journey amidst political turmoil as both engaging and thought-provoking. However, some point out pacing issues and potential confusion over historical nuances, which may alienate new players. Despite these drawbacks, the story's emotional weight and political intricacies keep it compelling, making it a must-play for Yakuza fans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Like a Dragon: Ishin! has garnered significant praise from critics, who highlight its engaging narrative and rich historical context. Many reviewers, such as Vandal and GameSpot, commend the game for its character-driven drama and the way it intertwines real historical events with fictional elements. Critics like Player 2 and Digital Trends appreciate the exploration of themes such as loyalty, identity, and social struggles during Japan’s Bakumatsu era, noting that the narrative feels both relevant and thought-provoking. The game is recognized for its compelling main character, Sakamoto Ryōma, whose journey for revenge against a backdrop of political upheaval resonates well with players. The storytelling is often described as dramatic and immersive, with some critics, including Inverse and Hardcore Gamer, praising its methodical pacing that leads to thrilling climaxes. However, the story is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including GameSpew and Everyeye.it, pointed out issues with pacing, particularly in the early stages of the game, which some found dull or slow to develop. Critics like Gamer.nl and GameSkinny noted that the narrative could be confusing for those unfamiliar with Japanese history, as it incorporates period-specific language and political intricacies that may not be adequately explained. Additionally, some critics, such as ZTGD and Gamepressure, mentioned that the storytelling can become convoluted at times, potentially overwhelming players with its numerous side stories and plotlines. Overall, the consensus among critics leans positively towards the story of Like a Dragon: Ishin!, with the majority appreciating its depth and character development. While there are valid concerns regarding pacing and accessibility for newcomers, the rich historical context and engaging themes resonate with many players. Critics like PCMag and VG247 encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the narrative's political depth and emotional weight, suggesting that despite its flaws, the story remains one of the game's strongest aspects, making it a worthwhile experience for both fans of the Yakuza franchise and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Ishin!" impresses with its dynamic combat system featuring four styles and rich side content, appealing to fans of the series. However, criticisms include repetitive gameplay, unbalanced combat mechanics, outdated UI, and design flaws that hinder the experience. While it successfully modernizes some elements, the game needs refinement to fully satisfy modern gaming standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of "Like a Dragon: Ishin!" has garnered a mixed but predominantly positive reception from various critics. Many reviewers praised the game for its engaging combat system, which features four distinct fighting styles that allow players to switch between hand-to-hand combat, swordplay, and gunplay, creating a dynamic experience. Critics like Easy Allies and Gamers Heroes highlighted the depth and enjoyment that the combat mechanics provide, with skill trees and flashy heat actions enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, the game is noted for its rich side content, including various mini-games and activities, which contribute to the immersive world-building that fans of the series have come to appreciate. Critics from IGN Japan and The Mako Reactor emphasized the engaging exploration and numerous side stories that enhance the gameplay experience. However, several reviewers pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Many critics, including Player 2 and Shacknews, noted that the combat system can become repetitive over time, with some styles, like the Brawler style, feeling underpowered or unbalanced. Additionally, the game has been criticized for its outdated UI and menus, frequent loading screens, and design choices that feel archaic in a modern gaming context. Critics like MGG and GamingTrend expressed concerns about the crafting system and the Trooper Card mechanic, suggesting that these elements could feel extraneous or underwhelming compared to the core gameplay experience. Furthermore, issues with camera control and difficulty spikes in boss fights were mentioned by several reviewers, indicating a lack of polish in certain areas. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Ishin!" offers a nostalgic return to the series' roots with its engaging brawler mechanics and diverse combat styles, but it also suffers from several outdated design elements and balance issues. While many players will appreciate the depth and variety of gameplay, as noted by critics like Press Start Australia and PC Gamer, others may find the repetitive nature of combat and some design flaws detracting from the overall experience. The game successfully modernizes certain aspects of the Yakuza formula, as pointed out by Jeuxvideo.com, but it remains clear that it has room for improvement in terms of innovation and polish to meet the expectations of contemporary gamers.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Ishin! impresses with stunning remastered graphics and immersive environments, earning praise for its detailed depiction of historical Kyoto. However, critics are divided, citing dated character models, stiff animations, and inconsistent quality between cutscenes and gameplay. Technical issues like texture pop-ins further detract from the experience, leading to a consensus that while visually appealing, the game feels more like a remaster than a modern remake. Overall, it captures 1800s Japan beautifully but falls short of contemporary standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

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: Ishin! have garnered a range of positive remarks from various critics. Many reviewers, such as GamesRadar+ and XboxEra, praised the game for its stunning remastered graphics, highlighting the beautifully reimagined historical Kyoto and the immersive environments that reflect real-world Japan. Critics like Game Informer noted the meticulous detail of the 1860s setting, which brings the open world to life, while PCMag emphasized the attractive remastered graphics and detailed character models enhanced by new lighting effects. The use of Unreal Engine 4 has also been acknowledged for improving textures and lighting, contributing to a visually appealing experience, as noted by Vandal and Digital Trends. However, despite these positives, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the game's visual presentation. Many reviewers, including Gamereactor UK and IGN, felt that the visuals appeared dated and stiff, with character models lacking detail and animation. RPGamer highlighted the inconsistent quality between cutscenes and gameplay, while GamersRD mentioned issues with texture loading and less detailed NPC models. Critics like Metro GameCentral and GRYOnline.pl criticized the overall visual design for being outdated, with wooden animations and poor camera work failing to meet modern standards. Furthermore, technical glitches, such as texture pop-ins and awkward facial animations, were cited by multiple reviewers, including Digital Trends and TheGamer. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Like a Dragon: Ishin! presents a mixed visual experience. While there are commendable aspects, such as the vibrant city environments and improved lighting, many reviewers agree that the game shows its age with outdated character models and inconsistent graphical quality. Critics like IGN Italia and Jeuxvideo.com noted that the enhancements feel modest and that the game does not meet the standards of contemporary titles, leading to an impression that it is more of a remaster than a full remake. While the game captures the essence of 1800s Japan and offers some beautiful visuals, the overall sentiment is that it lacks the polish and refinement expected from modern releases.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Ishin! boasts exceptional sound design and music, with critics praising its use of traditional Japanese instruments and emotional voice acting that enhance gameplay. While the audio effectively creates an immersive atmosphere, some noted issues like the absence of English dubbing and occasional mismatched music. Overall, the audio elements significantly elevate the game's experience, aligning well with the franchise's standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

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: Ishin! have received widespread acclaim from critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance the overall experience through its audio elements. Reviewers such as RPGamer and Everyeye.it praised the soundtrack for its effective use of traditional Japanese instruments and melodies that evoke the historical setting, contributing positively to the combat experience. Critics like Game Informer and Twinfinite emphasized the impressive voice acting performances, noting that the Japanese cast brings emotional depth to the characters, which is further complemented by the high-quality sound design. The music's ability to enhance both dramatic and comedic moments was also highlighted by Destructoid, while GamersRD and Vandal noted the immersive atmosphere created by the combination of sound effects and music. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out areas where the sound design and music could have been improved. For instance, Digitally Downloaded mentioned a lack of detailed analysis regarding the sound design, which left some aspects unexamined. Additionally, MeuPlayStation criticized the absence of English dubbing and Portuguese subtitles, which could hinder the experience for non-English speakers. Gamereactor Finland observed that while the music fits the chaotic nature of the Yakuza series, it sometimes feels out of place, indicating a potential disconnect between the audio and the game's historical context. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Like a Dragon: Ishin! delivers a robust audio experience that significantly enhances gameplay. The sound design and music are generally well-executed, with many reviewers, including RPG Fan and SpazioGames, noting the strong alignment with the franchise's standards. While some critiques regarding localization and occasional mismatched musical elements exist, the majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment, celebrating the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere through its audio. The combination of traditional and modern musical elements, along with high-quality voice acting, has left a favorable impression on players and critics alike.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Like a Dragon: Ishin! is widely praised for its emotional depth and strong performances from familiar Yakuza actors, enhancing the narrative experience and player immersion. Critics laud the nostalgia factor, but some note shortcomings like incomplete dialogue coverage, lack of an English dub, and recycled recordings that may alienate newcomers. Overall, it’s a standout element, despite a few criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in Like a Dragon: Ishin! has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, highlighting the strong performances delivered by a cast of familiar actors from the Yakuza series. Many reviewers, such as IGN Japan and Gamereactor UK, praised the quality and intensity of the voice acting, noting that it adds significant depth to the characters and enhances the overall narrative experience. Critics like SpazioGames and RPGamer emphasized the emotional weight and charisma of the performances, which contribute to player immersion and engagement with the story. The nostalgic factor of having beloved characters voiced by the same actors, as noted by GameSpot and GGRecon, further enriches the experience for long-time fans of the franchise. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the voice acting in Like a Dragon: Ishin!. A few reviewers, including Wccftech and CD-Action, pointed out that not all dialogue is voiced, which detracts from the impact of pivotal moments in the game. Additionally, the absence of an English dub, mentioned by critics such as Noisy Pixel and Digital Trends, has been perceived as a cost-cutting measure, potentially alienating players who prefer localized content. Eurogamer Germany also highlighted the use of recycled voice recordings from previous titles, which, while familiar, may not resonate with newcomers to the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a strong aspect of the game, characterized by high-quality performances that enhance the storytelling and character immersion. While some reviewers noted drawbacks such as the lack of complete voice coverage and the absence of an English dub, the majority of opinions lean towards a positive reception, with many acknowledging the nostalgic value and emotional depth brought by the returning voice actors. Critics like GamingBolt and Game Informer encapsulated this sentiment, affirming that the voice acting significantly contributes to the game's atmosphere and overall player experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Ishin!" shows potential on PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth performance and quick loading times, but is plagued by technical issues like freezing and glitches that ruin the experience. The PC version also struggles with stuttering and camera problems. Overall, critics agree the game needed more polish before launch, leading to a disappointing experience across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

84%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of "Like a Dragon: Ishin!" across various platforms, there are some notable positives to highlight. On the PS5, several critics, including GamingTrend and GGRecon, noted that the game runs smoothly with minimal frame drops and generally stable performance. Multiplayer.it even mentioned "almost instant loading times," suggesting that the PS5 version benefits from its hardware capabilities. The Xbox Series X version also received praise for its performance, with Generación Xbox reporting no major issues and the remastering process being well-executed. The PC version, while facing some challenges, was commended by PC Gamer for its overall adequate performance, with some reviewers noting solid framerates. However, the negatives across platforms are significant and varied. For the PS5, many critics pointed out persistent technical issues, such as freezing when entering or exiting battles, NPC glitches, and slow loading times. Critics like Game Rant and WellPlayed highlighted these issues as disruptive to the gameplay experience. The Xbox Series X version, despite its strengths, was not without fault; issues such as texture pop-ins and loading times were noted by both Cultured Vultures and SomosXbox. On PC, critics like Shacknews and RPG Site mentioned various technical problems, including camera issues, NPC glitches, and stuttering, indicating a lack of polish and refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Ishin!" suffers from a range of technical performance issues across all platforms, detracting from the overall experience. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions showed some promise in terms of performance, they were marred by glitches and other technical shortcomings, as pointed out by critics like Destructoid and Shacknews. The PC version, while capable of delivering solid performance, also faced significant issues that hindered the experience. Despite some positive remarks regarding visual quality and gameplay, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game needed more time for refinement before release, as echoed by critics across the board, including GameOver.gr and Digital Trends.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Ishin! boasts a wealth of side content and activities, earning praise for its replay value with over 40 hours of gameplay potential. However, some critics highlight a lack of polish and creativity in certain missions, leading to repetitiveness and a feeling of filler. While newcomers may find the experience rich and engaging, long-time fans might find the side content underwhelming, limiting overall replay appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay 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 replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Like a Dragon: Ishin! showcase a generally positive sentiment, particularly highlighting the abundance of side content and activities available for players. Many critics, including PCMag and Gamer Escape, praised the game for offering a wealth of side quests, mini-games, and engaging activities that can significantly extend gameplay beyond the main story. The inclusion of a new currency system, the Virtue system, and various upgrade paths also adds depth to the gameplay experience, encouraging players to explore and engage with the world. Critics like XGN and Vandal noted that the game provides a substantial amount of content, with some reviews suggesting that players can easily invest over 40 hours into the game, enhancing its replay value. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the quality and engagement of the side content. Critics such as MGG and Gamer.no pointed out that some secondary missions and mini-games lack the usual polish and creativity found in previous titles, leading to a feeling of repetitiveness that could deter players from returning for multiple playthroughs. Additionally, some reviewers, like INVEN and God is a Geek, mentioned that while the game offers a variety of activities, they may not be compelling enough for players who are familiar with the original series, limiting the overall replay value. The perception that some side quests feel like filler, as noted by Push Square, further contributes to the mixed feelings about replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Like a Dragon: Ishin! provides a rich and varied experience, particularly for newcomers to the franchise, with many opportunities for exploration and engagement. While many reviewers, such as IGN and TheXboxHub, highlighted the game's potential for replay value through its diverse activities, there remains a concern about the quality of some of these elements, which could affect long-term engagement. Critics seem to agree that while the game offers a significant amount of content, the repetitiveness of certain tasks and the lack of compelling side missions may limit its appeal for those looking for a deeply engaging replay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Like a Dragon: Ishin!" is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging story, unique historical setting, and enjoyable combat mechanics. Reviewers such as Game Informer and MondoXbox highlighted the gripping narrative and satisfying gameplay, emphasizing that it serves as a worthy addition to the Yakuza franchise. Critics like IGN Adria and Gamer.nl noted that the game offers a compelling experience for fans, with IGN Adria specifically mentioning its opportunity to explore a different aspect of Japan's history. The game is characterized by its charm and a wealth of content, which critics like The Loadout and Gamereactor Finland appreciated, noting that it successfully combines the series' familiar elements with new features, making it accessible to both newcomers and long-time fans. However, the game is not without its flaws, as many reviewers pointed out technical shortcomings and dated mechanics that detract from the overall experience. Noisy Pixel and IGN both mentioned issues such as unpolished visuals and stiff animations, which can hinder immersion. Additionally, some critics, including Gamer.nl and PC Gamer, indicated that while the game is enjoyable, it may not resonate with newcomers due to its reliance on established Yakuza tropes and mechanics. The presence of bugs and balance issues was also noted by several reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and JeuxActu, suggesting that while the game is entertaining, it could benefit from further refinement. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Ishin!" is a solid entry in the Yakuza series, offering a mix of engaging storytelling and enjoyable gameplay, despite some technical flaws and dated elements. Critics like GameSpew and Screen Rant emphasized that while it may not be the best title in the franchise, it still provides a worthwhile experience for fans. Overall, the game is recommended for those familiar with the series, with many reviewers asserting that it successfully captures the essence of the Yakuza universe while introducing new elements that can appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Ishin!" receives largely positive reviews for its captivating story, rich historical setting, and satisfying combat, making it a solid Yakuza franchise entry. Critics praise its charm and content, but highlight technical flaws like unpolished visuals and dated mechanics that may hinder immersion. While enjoyable, it may not fully resonate with newcomers due to reliance on series tropes. Overall, it's a recommended experience for Yakuza fans, despite its imperfections.

MONSTER

Reviews

185 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2023

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

Like A Dragon: Ishin is described as an intelligent and engaging game that successfully blends historical authenticity with entertainment, making it a strong contender for the best game of the year.

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100

VG247

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2023

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

The reviewer highly recommends Like a Dragon: Ishin, stating that it is the most fun they've had with a single player game in years.

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SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Feb 17, 2023

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

Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a compelling entry in the Yakuza franchise, offering a rich story, engaging gameplay, and a wealth of content. It serves as an excellent introduction for new players while satisfying long-time fans.

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Feb 24, 2023

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

A wondrous experience with a strong story, gameplay, and replayability, despite minor complaints about quality of life issues

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2023

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

Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a fascinating adventure that combines humor, drama, and action, rewarding exploration and patience, and successfully honors the legacy of the Yakuza franchise.

GAMINGbible

Xbox Series X

Feb 17, 2023

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

The game is described as a fantastic title worth checking out, especially for fans of the series, with a 9/10 rating.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Feb 17, 2023

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

Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a well-crafted addition to the franchise, offering a rich story, engaging gameplay, and impressive visuals. It's a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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Twinfinite

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2023

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

Like a Dragon: Ishin! is an exemplary Ryu Ga Gotoku title that will appeal to fans of the older Yakuza games and Judgement. The game offers familiar gameplay mechanics and story beats, and the polish applied to these facets is rewarding. It's a welcome return to the series' past and a good sign for the future.

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Inverse

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2023

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

Like a Dragon: Ishin is a wildly imaginative spinoff that successfully blends drama and humor, making it a standout title in the franchise despite some gameplay issues.

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Gamers Heroes

PlayStation 5

Mar 17, 2023

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

The reviewer had the most fun playing this game compared to other Yakuza games and recommends it to fans of the series or samurai games in general.