SEGA has been pretty high on their Yakuza-themed series for many years now, and even with its rebranding, they’re going full force to let fans know that everything they enjoyed about the franchise is still there, just under a more “friendly name.” The next one that will arrive is Like A Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, which is coming out in November. The title will continue the mainline story in various ways, and SEGA decided that it would be best to drop a developer update to help fans know what is coming not only this year but next year as well.
In the update, RGG Studio director Masayoshi Yokoyama talks about many elements of the title, including giving a synopsis for those who aren’t familiar with the series:
“Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name tells the story of Kazuma Kiryu, who chose to fake his death and disappear from the public eye to protect his loved ones. For fans who have enjoyed the series since Yakuza: Like a Dragon, this title will provide the best insight into the personality of Kazuma Kiryu. How will his story unfold as he fights against his enemies? Please enjoy the battle action and experience it for yourself.”
He also noted that the team was initially going to keep this look at the game and its details under wraps for a little while longer. But they couldn’t resist providing this update and gameplay trailer when they saw how excited people were for the game.
But wait, there’s more! We also got confirmation that within Like A Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name will be a demo for the franchise’s next title! So if you get the game, you’ll get the chance to play Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth before it releases next year. That’s a pretty nice combo that many will want to partake in.
As for the upcoming title’s gameplay, it’ll have a familiar feel and tone to those who have enjoyed the franchise. It’ll feature intense hand-to-hand combat mixed with some fantastical elements and let you enjoy Japan in ways other titles won’t. That includes a live-action gameplay segment where you’ll go to a cabaret club and go on a “date” with some real Japanese women.
It’s good to see that SEGA is keeping the wackiness and fun of the franchise while still trying to tell a deep story.