Sega seems to be making the Like a Dragon/Yakuza series a top priority, even putting on the same level as Sonic, given how quickly each new entry drops. Not that I’m complaining—these games continue to be some of the best bang for your buck in modern gaming. That said, I don’t think anyone expected the series to take this direction after last year’s Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. A mix of the classic beat-em-up gameplay with the high-seas adventure of Sid Meier’s Pirates? When Sega first revealed this in September, most fans thought it was a joke. Now, after playing it for about two weeks, it might just be one of the best side games in the series—and it’s eyeing Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag’s crown for the title of best pirate game.
The game picks up a few months after the events of Infinite Wealth, putting players in control of an amnesiac Goro Majima—his first playable appearance since Yakuza 0. After washing ashore on a Hawaiian beach, he saves a young boy and his family from a gang of ruthless pirates. Inspired by the rush of battle (and with no memory of his past life), Majima decides a pirate’s life is the life for him. From there, he assembles a crew, secures a ship, and sets sail in search of treasure—and his missing memories. What sets this game apart from previous entries is how seamlessly it blends multiple genres. The classic Yakuza brawler combat is still here, but it’s complemented by naval battles, ship upgrades, and open-world exploration. Unlike other side games like Judgment or Ishin!, which stick closely to the series’ core mechanics, Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii dares to do something completely different, and it pays off.
One of the biggest highlights of the game is the combat system. The traditional beat-em-up gameplay feels as satisfying as ever, but the addition of ship combat adds another layer of strategy. Battles at sea involve positioning, cannon management, and boarding enemy vessels for close quarters brawling. It’s a brilliant combination of Like a Dragon’s action-packed fights and the tactical nature of pirate warfare. Players can customize their ships with different weapons, hull reinforcements, and even special crew members who bring unique buffs to battles. It’s a deep and rewarding system that makes every encounter at sea feel engaging. The exploration aspect is another standout feature. The Hawaiian setting is beautifully realized, with numerous islands to visit, each featuring its own side quests, hidden treasures, and unique challenges. The game encourages players to venture off the beaten path, rewarding curiosity with powerful gear, rare loot, and bizarre but entertaining side stories—something the series has always excelled at. Whether it’s helping a stranded merchant, uncovering ancient ruins, or engaging in drinking contests with fellow pirates, there’s never a dull moment.
Character interactions remain a core strength of the game. Majima, known for his unpredictable and wild personality, is the perfect protagonist for this adventure. His amnesia allows for a fresh perspective on his character while still retaining the essence that fans love. His crew is also a delightful mix of personalities, from a disgraced samurai turned first mate to a con artist posing as a noblewoman. Each crew member has their own backstory and loyalty missions, reminiscent of RPG party dynamics seen in games like Mass Effect or Dragon Age. Building relationships with them unlocks new ship upgrades, special moves, and additional dialogue that adds depth to the story. The main storyline itself is filled with the twists and turns fans have come to expect. As Majima searches for clues about his past, he finds himself entangled in a conspiracy involving warring pirate factions, corrupt colonial officials, and a legendary treasure said to hold unimaginable power. The writing expertly balances high-stakes drama with the series’ signature humor. One moment you’re engaged in an intense sword fight on the deck of a burning ship, the next you’re competing in a ridiculous fishing minigame to impress a group of islanders. This balance keeps the game feeling fresh and unpredictable from start to finish.
Speaking of minigames, Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is packed with them. Beyond the usual karaoke, darts, and gambling, there are entirely new pirate-themed activities. Players can go deep-sea diving for treasure, participate in naval races, or even engage in elaborate heists where they infiltrate heavily guarded ports. The amount of side content is staggering, ensuring there’s always something new to do even after completing the main story. Visually, the game is stunning. The tropical landscapes are vibrant and detailed, making exploration a joy. Character models are as expressive as ever, and the animations in combat—both on land and at sea—are fluid and impactful. The soundtrack is also worth mentioning, blending traditional Yakuza-style rock with swashbuckling orchestral themes that perfectly capture the pirate adventure vibe.
Of course, no game is without its flaws. The biggest issue with Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is its pacing in the early hours. The tutorial phase drags on a bit too long, bombarding players with mechanics before they even get to set sail properly. Additionally, while the naval combat is fantastic, it can sometimes feel repetitive, especially during long stretches of travel between islands. A fast travel system alleviates this somewhat, but it doesn’t completely fix the issue.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is an absolute triumph. It successfully reinvents the series while staying true to what makes Yakuza special—compelling characters, engaging combat, and a world brimming with absurdity and heart. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer looking for a unique pirate adventure, this game delivers in spades. I also find it interesting that this game came out about a year after the disaster, that is, Skull and Bones, and people are disappointed, and then Sega came around and gave those people what they wanted. I’m not saying it was planned, but given how fast these games come out, I wouldn’t be shocked if it was, again just found that to be really funny.
Score: 8 out of 10
Reviewed on PlayStation 5