I said after the launch of Lost Judgment and its simultaneous worldwide release that the Yakuza/Like a Dragon franchise was now a global thing. That is further cemented today by the release of a game that when originally released it was in Japan only. This remake corrects that for all the fans around the world. Early access for Like a Dragon: Ishin! begins now on Xbox, PlayStation and PC.
Like a Dragon: Ishin! takes the now familiar Yakuza/Like a Dragon formula and drops it into 1860s feudal Japan. You no longer play as Kazuma Kiryu but instead as Sakamoto Ryoma. The fact that these two look, sound and act like each other is purely coincidental, so I am told.
Ryoma is looking for vengeance against his father’s killer whilst clearing his name for a murder he didn’t commit. It all sounds very Yakuza Kiwami so far, but things are very different here. One thing isn’t though and that is the wide variety of side quests and minigames on offer.
Ryoma doesn’t rely on his fists like Kiryu would, but instead his sword and revolver combination. Use a variety of fighting styles to get the most out of these deadly weapons.
Like a Dragon: Ishin! is on the Xbox Store now priced at £54.99. As well as the four days early access this grants you, there are six DLC packs also included. They are:
- Shinsengumi Captain’s Set
- Ryoma Growth Support Kit
- Sword Upgrade Materials Kit
- Gun Upgrade Materials Kit
- Third Division Armament Expansion Kit
- The Dragon of Dojima Skin
- Japanese Swords & Cannon Set
These will grant you with a lot of in-game items to help you with all the various mechanics awaiting you. And yes, that Dragon of Dojima Skin will allow you to dress up as Kiryu in Ishin.
Or, you could wait a few more days and enjoy Like a Dragon: Ishin! on its official release day which is the 21st February. Whichever choice you make, our review will have all the answers you need coming soon.
Game description
1860s Kyo is plagued by widespread inequality, and one samurai will change the course of history in his search for justice. Take up the sword of Sakamoto Ryoma and venture to Kyoto to find your father’s killer, clear yourself of a framed murder, and restore your honor. In doing so, you will bring an end to the samurai era and forever change the future of Japan. Draw your blade, load your revolver, and join the revolution in this heated historical adventure that only the creators of Yakuza: Like a Dragon could produce.
