"Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii to be Significantly Larger than Gaiden"

The Yakuza/Like a Dragon series is set to expand significantly with the upcoming release of Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. This new installment promises to be both bigger and bolder than the previous spin-off, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name. Fans eager to dive into this new adventure can look forward to its release in 2025.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Promises to be Bigger and Bolder

During the RGG SUMMIT 2024, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's president, Masayoshi Yokoyama, revealed that the story and world of Pirate Yakuza will be approximately 1.3 to 1.5 times larger than Like a Dragon Gaiden. This expansion aims to surpass the expectations set by its predecessor, offering a more expansive and immersive experience.

Yokoyama emphasized that Pirate Yakuza is not merely an extension of the previous game but an adventure on an entirely new scale. In an interview with Famitsu, he hinted at the vastness of the game's setting, stating, "We don’t even know the exact area of the city itself. Of course, there’s Honolulu City, which appeared in [Infinite Wealth], and there are various stages, such as Madlantis, so I think the game volume is much larger than [Like a Dragon Gaiden]."

The game will be packed with a variety of content, including the series' signature brawling combat and a host of quirky side activities and mini-games. Yokoyama noted that the concept of "Gaiden" as a mere spin-off or side story is evolving, suggesting that Pirate Yakuza could stand alongside the mainline entries in the series.

Set against the backdrop of the Hawaiian islands, Pirate Yakuza introduces a unique narrative where the iconic Goro Majima, voiced by Hidenari Ugaki, finds himself washed ashore and embarking on a pirate-themed adventure. While details about Majima's transformation into a pirate remain under wraps, Ugaki expressed excitement and anticipation for the game, though he remained tight-lipped about specific details.

First Summer Uika, who voices Noah Ritchie, hinted at the inclusion of a live-action scene featuring Ryuji Akiyama as Masaru Fujita. Akiyama teased an intriguing recording session that included an unexpected aquarium encounter and the presence of many beautiful women, possibly referring to the "Minato Ward girls" who will appear in both live-action and CG within the game. Ryosuke Horii expressed appreciation for the passion and love for the series shown by auditionees for these roles.

For those interested in learning more about the auditions for the "Minato Girls," you can explore our detailed article below.