Sega’s Like a Dragon franchise, developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, has proven to be exceedingly popular in recent years. The year 2024 marked a significant chapter in its journey with the launch of the eagerly anticipated Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth and a live-action adaptation available through Amazon Prime. As the series approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what lies ahead, making it a promising year for the franchise.
The upcoming release schedule for 2025 already includes Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, set to debut on February 21. Additionally, Masayoshi Yokoyama, Director and Executive Producer at RGG Studio, hinted at more surprises in store for fans as the anniversary approaches. With a rich tapestry of content anticipated, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for enthusiasts of the series.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Launch Details
Goro Majima Returns as Protagonist
Continuing the momentum from Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, fans are looking forward to this new side story featuring the iconic Goro Majima. In this forthcoming installment, Majima wakes up with amnesia on a Hawaiian island, becoming embroiled in conflicts involving local pirates and remnants of the Palekana cult. Unlike the turn-based mechanics of its predecessor, this game reverts to an action-oriented combat style, highlighting Majima’s new combat style—the Sea Dog Style—integrating pirate weaponry into the gameplay.
Despite its focused narrative, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii promises an array of mini-games and side activities that fans have come to love. Notable mini-games confirmed for inclusion are:
- Crazy Delivery
- Karaoke
- Dragon Kart
- Masaru’s Love Journey – My Dream Minato Girl –
One of the most thrilling aspects of this new title is the opportunity to recruit a pirate crew, engaging in naval battles reminiscent of the acclaimed Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.
Project Century: A New Chapter for Like a Dragon
Exploring the Tojo and Omi Clans’ Origins
Unveiled at The Game Awards 2024, Project Century is an upcoming title from RGG Studio that appears to transport players to a historical Japanese backdrop, specifically the year 1915. While details are sparse, early impressions suggest a more brutal dive into the crime-ridden underbelly of Japan. It remains uncertain how this narrative connects to the broader Like a Dragon series, with speculation about potential ties to the legendary Tojo Clan and the Omi Alliance, two primary factions in the franchise’s lore.
Some conjecture suggests that Project Century may follow in the footsteps of the Judgment series, serving as a standalone experience with loose connections to the familiar universe. Regardless of its ties, it promises to deliver engaging brawler gameplay, catering to fans hungry for more action.
Anticipations for RGG Summit 2025
Anticipated Reveal of Like a Dragon 9
Looking ahead, the RGG Summit is expected to take place in Fall 2025, traditionally serving as a platform for major announcements and reveals regarding future titles in the franchise. Given the approach of the series’ 20th anniversary, it’s plausible that fans might catch their first glimpse of Like a Dragon 9. While the release of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is still fresh, a teaser for the next mainline game could be on the horizon.
Celebrating Two Decades of Like a Dragon
RGG’s Plans for the Anniversary Celebration
As we look forward to 2025, one of the most compelling questions revolves around how RGG Studio plans to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Like a Dragon franchise. The 10th anniversary was notably marked by the release of the highly praised Yakuza 0, along with various merchandise and commemorative content. While the focus may largely be on Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, there’s also the potential for announcements related to other exciting projects, possibly including further insights into Project Century or even new merchandise.
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