Getting back to the action
The latest entry in theLike a Dragonseries heads back in time. And asIshingoes back, it also returns to a combat style familiar to those who have been playing theLike a Dragonseries for a while now.
Traditionally, theLike a Dragon(orYakuza, as it was formerly called) series relied on real-time action. However, with the release ofYakuza: Like a Dragon, developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio introduced a new turn-based RPG way to brawl in the streets. So, which one doesIshinfall back on?
IsLike a Dragon: Ishina turn-based game?
The answer isno,Ishinis not a turn-based RPG in the vein ofYakuza: Like a Dragon. Rather,Like a Dragon: Ishinuses a real-time, action-focused brawler combat system that will feel pretty familiar to anyone who’s played an olderYakuzagame.
Given that this is a remake of the originalLike a Dragon: Ishin, which was only released in Japan for its first run, this makes sense. The combat is a traditional mix of light and heavy attacks, with a series of stances to flow through depending on what you need. There are a few additions that will make evenYakuzaveterans have to learn some new moves, though.
First off, Sakamoto Ryoma wields a fair few more weapons than Kazuma Kiryu. While Kiryu mostly stuck to his fists, Ryoma’s stances are built with a sword and gun in mind as staples. Additionally, Trooper Cards allow Ryoma to deploy extra help on the field, whether that’s a quick bit of healing or actual chain lightning. It’s historicalfiction, okay?
If you want to get a taste of the combat, you may play theCombat DemoforLike a Dragon: Ishinyourself and get a sense of how it handles. Inmy experience playing it, the classic brawling of theYakuzaseries felt right at home inLike a Dragon: Ishin.
