Summary
- New Game Plus for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will be added for free after launch.
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth's New Game Plus mode was exclusively tied to the two most expensive editions of the game, upsetting many fans.
Yakuza franchise developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has confirmed that New Game Plus in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will be added for free at a later date. Set in and around Hawaii, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will chronicle franchise icon Goro Majima's zany pirate adventure after the events of 2024's Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
While Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth turned out to be one of 2024's best RPGs, garnering glowing reviews and even being nominated for two accolades at The Game Awards, it wasn't without some controversy when it was released. Infinite Wealth's New Game Plus mode was exclusively tied to the two most expensive editions of the title, upsetting many gamers who had to shell out the extra cash to gain access to the mode. Unfortunately, RGG Studio never reversed its decision in the face of the backlash from Infinite Wealth, but Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii seems to be approaching things differently.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Mini-Games Revealed
Sega unveils some of the fun and wacky mini-games Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii players will be able to take part in when the game releases.
RGG Studio recently held its Like a Dragon Direct, with a 13-minute video showing off more of what players can come to expect from Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii's naval ship combat, crew-building, and more. At the very end, RGG revealed the game's different editions, adding that players hoping to enjoy New Game Plus will be able to do so for free when it's added in a post-launch patch. However, the video didn't disclose when players can expect New Game Plus to be added.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii's New Game Plus Mode Will Be Free
Deluxe and special editions of games often include exclusive in-game cosmetic skins, outfits, and items, but many take issue when more important parts of a game, such as specific modes or gameplay elements, are locked away and only made available in the most expensive versions of a game. It's good to see RGG Studio take fans' criticism of Infinite Wealth's New Game Plus availability and not go that same route with Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii's deluxe edition. Although some fans may still be disappointed that they'll need to wait for the mode to be added post-launch, it shouldn't be too long a wait. Considering just how long some of these Like a Dragon games can be, New Game Plus should be out by the time many players wrap up their first playthrough of Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is still over a month away from its February 21 release date, so Ryu Ga Gotoku may choose to show off more of the game in the coming weeks as its launch approaches. Like a Dragon fans should keep a close eye on the studio's socials for any new exciting details as Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii nears.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 81 /100 Critics Rec: 84%
- Released
- February 21, 2025
- ESRB
- Mature 17+ // Blood, Intense Violence, Partial Nudity, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Use of Alcohol
- Developer(s)
- Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
- Publisher(s)
- Sega
WHERE TO PLAY
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.
PIRATE YAKUZA ADVENTURE AHOY!
Goro Majima, a notorious ex-yakuza suddenly finds himself shipwrecked on a remote island in the Pacific. Unable to remember even his own name, he sets sail in search of clues to his lost memories, accompanied by a boy named Noah who saved his life. Before long, they’re caught up in a conflict between cutthroat criminals, modern-day pirates, and other scoundrels over a legendary treasure.
GET YOUR SHIP TOGETHER
Assemble a one-of-a-kind crew while upgrading your ship as you explore the open sea and forge your legend in the cannon fire of foes, unexpected friendships, and immense riches made along the way.
When an enemy pirate ship catches you in their sights, an exhilarating real-time cannon battle breaks out. Quickly maneuver into position while avoiding fire, then deliver devastating damage to board the enemy ship and take down the captain in all-out crew vs. Crew brawls. Conquer the seas, discover hidden islands and acquire loads of loot like a true yakuza pirate!
KICK ARRRSS WITH CREATIVE COMBAT
Dynamically switch between the “Mad Dog” and “Sea Dog” fighting styles to mix-up attacks and deliver explosive combos, juggles, and aerial takedowns that reward your creativity with over-the-top action.
With “Mad Dog” style, utilize speed, agility, and flair to deliver precise yet powerful blows that stun your enemies into submission. Or make enemies walk the plank with the “Sea Dog” style that has you dual-wielding short swords and deploying tricky pirate tools to kick some serious booty.
- Engine
- Dragon Engine
- Franchise
- Yakuza
- Number of Players
- Single-player
- Steam Deck Compatibility
- Unknown
- PC Release Date
- February 21, 2025
- Xbox Series X|S Release Date
- February 21, 2025
- PS5 Release Date
- February 21, 2025
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PC
- X|S Optimized
- Yes
