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MONSTER

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Item: Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Comedy, Crime, RPG, Single Player

AvailableFeb 21, 2025

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

DeveloperRyu ga Gotoku Studios

Overview

A new legend begins as you step into the steel toe boots of Goro Majima, a man who has lost his memory and reinvents himself as a pirate on the open sea. Embark on an over-the-top, modern-day pirate adventure with an ex-yakuza, now pirate captain and his crew as they engage in exhilarating combat on land and sea in the hunt for lost memories and a legendary treasure.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" entertains with its whimsical premise and engaging character dynamics, particularly Goro Majima's treasure hunt and his bond with the young boy Noah. However, critics lament its lack of narrative depth and emotional weight compared to previous Yakuza games, describing the story as thin and more of a gameplay backdrop. While it's humorous and enjoyable for newcomers, long-time fans may find it underwhelming and forgettable. Overall, it's a fun adventure but misses the rich storytelling the franchise is known for.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

61%

Mixed (50-79)

39%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its entertaining premise and character dynamics. Many reviewers, such as IGN and WellPlayed, highlight the whimsical nature of the narrative, which follows Goro Majima as he navigates his amnesia and embarks on a treasure-hunting adventure in a pirate-themed setting. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Shacknews commend the engaging character interactions and humorous elements that complement the lighthearted tone of the story. The introduction of new characters, such as the young boy Noah, adds a layer of emotional resonance, with critics like Inverse noting the heartfelt bond that develops throughout the adventure. However, the story has also faced significant criticism for its lack of depth and emotional impact compared to previous entries in the Yakuza series. Many reviewers, including CGMagazine and GamingBolt, describe the narrative as thin and more of a backdrop for gameplay than a cohesive story. Critics like Power Unlimited and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize that the exaggerated and cliché elements diminish the emotional stakes, making the plot feel forgettable. Moreover, some reviewers, such as Vandal and Creative Bloq, mention that the story serves as a flimsy pretext for gameplay, lacking the intricate storytelling that fans have come to expect from the franchise. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" offers an enjoyable and humorous experience, it falls short in terms of narrative depth and emotional engagement. Many reviewers agree that the game is entertaining and features memorable moments, but it does not reach the same heights as its predecessors. Critics like Eurogamer and TechRadar Gaming note that the story's absurdity and humor can be appealing, yet it often feels underwhelming and lacks the complexity that long-time fans might desire. As a result, the game appears to cater more to newcomers or those seeking a lighthearted adventure rather than those looking for the rich storytelling characteristic of the Yakuza series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" impresses critics with its engaging combat and innovative dual fighting styles, blending traditional Yakuza brawling with naval battles for a fresh experience. While praised for its depth, side quests, and replayability, some reviewers note issues like repetitive gameplay, sluggish naval combat, and ineffective partner AI. Overall, it successfully revitalizes the franchise with a fun mix of action and strategy, earning a largely positive reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its engaging combat mechanics and the introduction of new elements. Reviewers like GAMINGbible and Inverse highlighted the game’s dual fighting styles—Mad Dog and Sea Dog—as well as the incorporation of ship battles and character upgrades, which add depth and variety to the gameplay. Critics such as WellPlayed and PlayStation Universe noted that the blend of traditional Yakuza brawling with naval combat creates a dynamic experience that feels fresh yet familiar. The inclusion of various side quests, crew management, and mini-games was also celebrated, with many reviewers, including TierraGamer and GamingTrend, emphasizing that these elements enhance the overall enjoyment and replayability of the game. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the gameplay experience. For instance, Hey Poor Player and Player 2 mentioned that while the gameplay is fun, it can become repetitive over time, particularly with some management aspects feeling tedious. CGMagazine and Shacknews noted that while the naval combat introduces strategic elements, it can also feel sluggish and overly tutorialized, which may detract from the pacing of the game. Additionally, RPGamer criticized the partner AI for being ineffective, which could impact the overall combat experience. These concerns indicate that while the gameplay is entertaining, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" successfully merges traditional Yakuza gameplay with new pirate-themed mechanics, resulting in an engaging and enjoyable experience. Reviewers such as IGN and Eurogamer praised the lively combat and diverse activities, suggesting that the game maintains the charm of its predecessors while introducing fresh systems. With the majority of critics expressing a favorable view of the gameplay, it is clear that the game offers a compelling mix of action, exploration, and strategic elements, making it a worthy addition to the Yakuza franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii dazzles with vibrant visuals and smooth animations, celebrated for its immersive depiction of Hawaii and pirate themes. Critics rank it among the series' best-looking titles. However, it suffers from cross-gen limitations, leading to inconsistent graphics, dated assets, and technical flaws that dampen the experience. While it captures tropical charm, it fails to fully utilize current-gen hardware, resulting in an enjoyable yet uneven visual presentation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

31%

Mixed (50-79)

69%

Negative (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: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their vibrant and immersive environments. The game's depiction of Hawaii and the open seas is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, with Daily Star calling it "the best-looking game in the series." XboxEra and Eurogamer Portugal echo this sentiment, praising the lush island scenery and the chaotic, vibrant essence of the pirate theme. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the smooth animations during combat, further enhancing the visual experience. The use of the Dragon Engine is noted by several reviewers, including Atomix and ElDesmarque, who commend the detailed environments and character designs, particularly the impressive outfits like Majima's pirate attire. However, the game is not without its shortcomings. Many critics point out that the graphics suffer from issues related to cross-gen development, which limits the quality of models and textures. MondoXbox specifically mentions that this limitation affects model quality, while Creative Bloq notes the reuse of assets that feel dated. Critics like ComicBook and Hobby Consolas express concerns about the inconsistency in visual quality, with some NPCs and areas appearing clunky or lacking polish. Additionally, issues with lighting and shadow balance are raised by Atomix and GamingTrend, detracting from the overall visual experience. The presence of recycled layouts and designs, as noted by IGN and Power Unlimited, further diminishes the sense of novelty in the visual presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii offers a visually appealing experience with vibrant settings and smooth animations, it is hindered by technical limitations and asset recycling. Critics like GamersRD and Shacknews acknowledge the game's beautiful locales but also point out that certain areas lack creativity and polish. The game successfully captures the essence of its tropical setting, but many reviewers, including Vandal and WellPlayed, agree that it does not fully leverage the potential of current-gen hardware, resulting in a visual experience that is enjoyable yet inconsistent.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise the sound design and music of Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, calling it immersive and well-composed, with standout voice acting. While some suggest more musical diversity and criticize repetitive tracks, the overall reception is positive, highlighting the unique blend of genres that enhances the gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (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: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance the overall experience. Daily Star applauds the introduction of a new song that rivals iconic tracks from the series, while Atomix notes the well-composed music that blends traditional elements with the pirate theme, effectively enriching the atmosphere. Critics such as Hobby Consolas and RPGamer also commend the inclusion of upbeat musical numbers and classic SEGA tunes, which contribute to the immersive pirate experience. The strong voice acting in both English and Japanese, particularly the performances of Hidenari Ugaki and Matt Mercer, has been consistently praised, with IGN and SpazioGames emphasizing the high quality of the Japanese voice work. However, some critics have pointed out areas where the sound design and music could improve. XboxEra suggests that the game would benefit from a more diverse range of music tracks, specifically slack-key guitar pieces to better reflect its Hawaiian setting. Wccftech highlights a repetitive sea shanty sung by the pirate crew, which may become tiresome for players, recommending the use of a custom soundtrack instead. Additionally, while several reviews mention the quality of the soundtrack, some, like MondoXbox and Jeuxvideo.com, provide limited details on the music or sound design, leaving a gap in the overall assessment of these elements. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii features a strong soundtrack and sound design that significantly enhance the gameplay experience. While there are suggestions for greater diversity in music and some criticisms of repetitiveness, the majority of reviewers appreciate the well-composed tracks and the effective use of voice acting. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Siliconera highlight the creative blending of genres, which adds a unique flair to the game. Ultimately, the sound design and music contribute positively to the game's charm, making it a noteworthy aspect of the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the Japanese voice acting in "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii," particularly praising Hidenari Ugaki's standout portrayal of Goro Majima. The Japanese performances are deemed essential for enhancing immersion and emotional depth. Conversely, the English dub faces criticism for lacking the original's vibrancy, with issues like awkward localization and inconsistent performances noted. While some English performances, like Matthew Mercer's, are solid, the consensus urges players to opt for the Japanese version for the best experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

68%

Mixed (50-79)

32%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" has received considerable praise from critics, particularly for its Japanese voice performances. MondoXbox recommends the Japanese version, emphasizing that it enhances the overall gaming experience. Hidenari Ugaki's portrayal of Goro Majima stands out, with multiple reviewers, including Atomix and ComicBook, highlighting his ability to capture the character's energy and charisma. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Hobby Consolas also commend the voice acting for its quality and ability to bring vibrant characters to life, contributing positively to emotional moments within the game. The overall sentiment suggests that the Japanese voice acting is a significant strength of the game, with many reviewers noting its consistency with the series' established quality. However, there are some criticisms regarding the English voice acting. While some critics, such as Impulsegamer, acknowledge that Matthew Mercer's performance as Majima is solid, they feel it lacks the flamboyant charm of the original Japanese portrayal. RPGamer points out inconsistencies in the English version, which detracts from the overall experience. Siliconera also raises concerns about awkward localization choices, indicating that these may impact the immersion for players who opt for the English dub. Additionally, VG247 mentions mixed feelings about the voice performances in the context of a live-action skit, suggesting that not all aspects of the voice acting were received positively. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the voice acting in "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii," particularly praising the Japanese performances. While there are notable strengths in the English dub, such as Mercer's effort, many reviewers recommend the Japanese version for a more authentic experience. Critics like ElDesmarque and SpazioGames reinforce the idea that the voice acting contributes significantly to the game's charm and engagement, despite some inconsistencies and localization issues noted in the English version. This duality in reception highlights the importance of language choice for players, with a clear preference for the original Japanese performances among many reviewers.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" performs well on Xbox Series X and PS5, running smoothly at 60 fps with quick load times. However, both platforms suffer from lingering technical issues like graphical glitches and frame rate dips, particularly on PS5. Critics note that the outdated engine limits competitiveness, and performance on PS4 is poor. While generally enjoyable, there's clear room for improvement in future releases.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

33%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii," it is evident that the game performs quite well across different platforms, particularly on the Xbox Series X and PS5. Critics like MondoXbox and XboxEra noted that the game runs smoothly at 60 fps on the Xbox Series X, with MondoXbox highlighting the consistent performance even during intense gameplay. Similarly, many PS5 reviewers, including GamersRD and SpazioGames, reported a stable experience with no significant performance issues, praising the overall fluidity of gameplay. The game also benefits from quick load times and effective use of the DualSense controller, as noted by Hey Poor Player, further enhancing the user experience on the PS5. However, there are notable technical issues that detract from the experience on both platforms. XboxEra pointed out lingering technical problems from previous entries, such as interruptions in side conversations. On the PS5, several critics, including Atomix and GameSpew, mentioned issues with shadows, lighting, and frame rate dips in busy areas, which can affect gameplay. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and Vandal also highlighted that the game suffers from graphical limitations due to an outdated engine, which impacts its competitiveness against newer titles. Additionally, Wccftech reported poor performance on the PS4, including freezing and hitching during action sequences, indicating that the game may not perform as well on older hardware. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" generally delivers a solid technical performance on both the Xbox Series X and PS5, with most reviewers reporting a smooth and stable experience. While there are some graphical and technical issues, particularly on the PS5, many critics agree that these do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. The performance on the Xbox Series X appears to be slightly more favorable, with fewer reported issues. However, the game’s reliance on an aging engine and some persistent technical problems suggest that there is room for improvement in future iterations, as noted by critics like IGN France and Hobby Consolas.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" offers strong replay value with its rich side content and engaging mini-games, earning praise from critics for its extensive activities and customization. However, concerns about forced content and repetition, along with a shorter runtime, may dampen long-term engagement for some players. Overall, it's a solid choice for series fans and exploration enthusiasts, despite a few noted drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

53%

Mixed (50-79)

47%

Negative (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: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" is predominantly positive among critics, with many praising its extensive side content and engaging mini-games. Reviewers such as Daily Star and MondoXbox highlight the game's plethora of activities and customization options, suggesting that players will find ample reasons to return to the game. Critics like ElDesmarque and Power Unlimited echo this sentiment, emphasizing the significant replay value stemming from the variety of side quests and opportunities for exploration. The game's design appears to cater well to completionists, with many reviewers noting that the numerous side activities can lead to extended gameplay and a rich experience beyond the main narrative. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value that cannot be overlooked. Some critics, such as Atomix and Inverse, express concerns that certain forced content and repetitive elements may deter players from fully engaging with the game on subsequent playthroughs. CGMagazine also points out that while the side stories are entertaining, they do not reach the highs of previous entries in the series, potentially diminishing the overall replay value. Additionally, Wccftech mentions that the game's relatively short runtime, coupled with some padding, could affect long-term engagement, leading to a mixed experience for players seeking depth and variety. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" offers a solid replay value, particularly for fans of the series and those who enjoy side content. While there are some concerns about repetition and the forced nature of certain activities, the abundance of mini-games, side quests, and customization options generally creates a compelling environment for exploration and engagement. Critics like GamingBolt and Shacknews affirm that the game provides significant content outside the main story, which enhances its replayability. Despite some reservations, many reviewers agree that the game is well-equipped to satisfy players looking for a rich and varied experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" is predominantly positive, with numerous critics praising its engaging gameplay, humor, and the unique twist of combining Yakuza elements with a pirate theme. Reviewers like NME and Eurogamer highlight the game's charm and the strong character development of Goro Majima, suggesting that the game successfully delivers an entertaining experience. Critics such as GamingTrend and Digital Downloaded commend the game for its engaging combat mechanics and the fun narrative, indicating that it stands out as a worthwhile addition to the Yakuza franchise. The humor and whimsical storytelling are also frequently mentioned as key strengths, with IGN noting that it combines these elements effectively, making it a delightful experience for both new and veteran players. However, several reviews point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Critics like CGMagazine and Wccftech express concerns about the game not innovating enough within the established Yakuza formula, suggesting that it feels more like a side story than a standalone title. Issues such as pacing problems, repetitive gameplay, and a thin plot are mentioned by reviewers like Atomix and Checkpoint Gaming, who feel that these elements hinder the game's potential. Additionally, some critics, including Power Unlimited and Creative Bloq, note that while the game is enjoyable, it lacks the emotional depth and complexity found in previous mainline entries, which may leave some players wanting more. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" is a fun and engaging spin-off that successfully captures the essence of the Yakuza series while introducing a fresh pirate theme. While it does have its flaws, such as pacing issues and a lack of innovation, the overall experience is deemed enjoyable, especially for fans of Majima and the franchise. Reviewers like Daily Star and Loot Level Chill emphasize that despite its shortcomings, the game is a must-play for fans, suggesting that it offers enough charm and entertainment to warrant attention, even if it doesn't reach the heights of its predecessors.

TL;DR

"Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" is a fun and charming spin-off that blends Yakuza elements with a pirate theme, winning praise for its engaging gameplay and character depth, particularly Goro Majima. However, it falls short in innovation, with issues like pacing, repetitive gameplay, and a thin plot, leaving some fans wanting more. Despite its flaws, critics recommend it as a delightful experience for both newcomers and veterans of the franchise.

MONSTER

Reviews

170 reviews found

100

Daily Star

Xbox Series X

Feb 18, 2025

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

The game is a fitting and surprising entry in the series, providing a fresh experience with Majima. It balances bizarre elements with engaging gameplay and a humorous story, earning a perfect score.

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100

VG247

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Overall, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is described as a fun and engaging experience that successfully blends Yakuza elements with a pirate theme, despite some minor flaws.

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Loot Level Chill

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is praised as an excellent addition to the series, with engaging combat, a rich story, and a fulfilling pirate experience, making it a must-play for fans.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Feb 18, 2025

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

The reviewer highly recommends 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza' for both newcomers and longtime fans, praising its engaging story, gameplay, and nostalgic elements.

But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is praised as one of the best spin-offs in the franchise, featuring a compelling protagonist, engaging combat, and a wealth of content that keeps players returning.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Overall, the game is described as the most varied and enjoyable entry in the series, despite some minor issues.

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Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is an enjoyable adventure for fans, despite some pacing issues and repetitive elements.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a successful and creative entry in the series, showcasing the developers' ability to innovate while maintaining engaging storytelling and gameplay.

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Gameliner

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a fun and engaging spin-off that embraces its pirate theme with humor and action, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the franchise.

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TechRadar Gaming

PlayStation 5

Feb 18, 2025

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

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a heartfelt and engaging adventure that successfully blends the series' elements with a unique pirate theme, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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