It’s been a little while since we heard anything new about Like A Dragon: Ishin! However, SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have now given eager players a new look at the title in action. A new combat trailer showcases some of what players can expect from the 1800s-era action RPG and it’s fair to say it looks pretty bloodthirsty.
Like A Dragon: Ishin! takes place in Kyo in the 1860s against a backdrop of inequality and injustice. Players will be taking on the role of Sakamoto Ryoma, played by Like A Dragon series stalwart Kiryu, as they journey through a storyline that’s destined to bring an end to the samurai-era of feudal Japan. As a samurai-focused adventure, the combat in this game is majorly focused on sword fighting and looks pretty bloody and brutal. This is shown off in a bit more detail in the newly-released combat trailer, which you can check out right here.
As can be seen in the new footage, combat in Like A Dragon: Ishin! will follow a similar pattern of play to that of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s mainline Yakuza/Like A Dragon titles. That’s to say that there’ll be four unique battle styles for players to experiment with and ultimately master during their time as the protagonist Sakamoto Ryoma. These are Swordsman, Gunman, Wild Dancer and Brawler and will allow players to try out different fighting techniques and weapons. If blades aren’t your thing then Like A Dragon: Ishin! also makes use of a revolver for the Gunman style.
However, given the whole samurai vibe of the story, it seems like getting to grips with a sword might be a more satisfying experience, if the slicing and dicing action in the combat trailer is anything to go by. Either way, it’s good to have options, and players will be able to train and upgrade skills to unlock a range of impressive fighting abilities as they progress through the story.
Players will be able to swap out their battle styles at any point during encounters, allowing for a mix-and-match style of combat. Alternatively, they can put their time and effort into mastering one discipline at a time, depending on their preference. It’s fair to say that the combat in the clip does look especially visceral, with plenty of blood and gore to satisfy hardcore Like A Dragon franchise players.
The title is scheduled for release on February 21, 2023. It’ll be available on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PC via Steam and the Microsoft Store.
