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CRITIK
Like a Dragon: Ishin!
Being remade from the ground up in UE4, this Yakuza spin-off returns us to feudal Japan in this remake for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, and Steam! Like a Dragon: Ishin! will be a remake of Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! from 22 February 2014. The original game only released domestically in Japan, but the remake will release globally in February 2023.
Critik
Scorecard
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Story and Narrative
80
Critics mostly praise Like a Dragon: Ishin! for its engaging historical narrative, complex characters, and emotional depth. The game's portrayal of real-life events and iconic Yakuza characters adds richness to the story. However, there are some criticisms about slow pacing, convoluted storytelling, and a disappointing ending. Overall, critics find the story compelling despite its flaws.
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Gameplay
81
Critics generally praise Like a Dragon: Ishin!'s diverse combat system with distinct styles and upgrade options. The Trooper Card system adds depth, but some find it out of place. Side activities like karaoke and Battle Dungeons provide variety, though some can be tedious. However, issues with camera, controls, and combat depth are noted. Overall, critics appreciate the gameplay variety but highlight shortcomings in certain mechanics and design choices.
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Graphics and Visual Design
73
Critics have mixed feelings about the graphics and visual design of Like a Dragon: Ishin! Some appreciate its historical attention to detail, bringing 19th-century Japan to life, while others criticize issues like lack of polish in NPCs and gameplay sequences. Overall, the game impresses with its visuals but falls short in some areas, with technical issues and dated visuals mentioned by reviewers.
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Music and Sound Design
86
Critics rave about the Sound Design and Music of Like a Dragon: Ishin! praising the traditional instrument sounds and stellar voice acting. Some mention the absence of English voice acting, but the Japanese cast's quality compensates. Overall, critics laud the game for its exceptional sound, varied mini-games, and nostalgic soundtrack, making it a hit among both new players and series veterans.
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Voice Acting
83
Critics rave about the stellar voice acting in Like a Dragon: Ishin!, praising performances for bringing characters to life and enhancing the storytelling. While some critics lacked detailed evaluations, overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with notable praise for Takaya Kuroda and returning Yakuza actors. Voice acting steals the show, adding depth and engagement to the game.
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Technical Performance
68
Critics had mixed opinions on the technical performance of Like a Dragon: Ishin! across different platforms. While some encountered no issues or minor glitches, others faced crashes, freezes, and menu problems. The PC version had initial technical issues but was later improved. Xbox Series X had minor glitches. Potential for patches to address technical issues was noted.
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Replay Value
75
Critics generally praise the replay value of Like a Dragon: Ishin! for its abundance of side activities, mini-games, and substories that keep players engaged. Positive aspects include upgrade paths, post-game content, and meaningful activities, while criticisms mention occasional difficulty spikes, repetitive side quests, and tedious optional missions. Overall, the game offers a variety of content that extends playtime and diversifies gameplay, making it highly replayable despite some drawbacks.
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Overall Verdict
Like a Dragon: Ishin! impresses critics with its captivating period setting, melodramatic storytelling, and enjoyable gameplay, making it a standout entry in the Yakuza series. While some reviewers mention technical issues and minor criticisms, the game's compelling story, engaging characters, and unique combat mechanics receive high praise. Overall, critics recommend it for both fans and newcomers, applauding its transformation of the Yakuza franchise to 19th-century Japan.
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78
CRITIK
Reviews
180 reviews found100
Vg247.com
Feb 17, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
The reviewer highly recommends Like a Dragon: Ishin, stating that it is the most fun they've had with a single player game in years. The game is described as worth the time and money.
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90
Gamingbible.com
Feb 17, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
The game is described as a fantastic title worth checking out, especially for fans of the series, with a 9/10 rating.
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90
Gamersheroes.com
Mar 17, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a highly enjoyable Yakuza game with engaging gameplay, an interesting story, and solid technical performance. It is recommended for fans of the series and samurai games in general.
90
Dualshockers.com
Feb 21, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Like A Dragon: Ishin! is a near-perfect experience on all fronts.
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90
Screenrant.com
Feb 17, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a well-timed remake that delivers on the promise of a refreshing adventure. Despite some technical hiccups, the compelling content, fun story beats, emotional moments, and satisfying combat make it a quality game in the Yakuza universe.
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90
Moviesgamesandtech.com
May 9, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a must-play game with a unique story, satisfying gameplay, and immersive world. Despite some minor technical issues and outdated NPC interactions, the care and enhancements set it above every other game in the Yakuza franchise.
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90
Themakoreactor.com
Feb 17, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Like a Dragon: Ishin is special and worth the long wait. The story is impressive, and the game is enjoyable despite some technical issues and inconsistencies in the visuals. The reviewer hopes for more updates to address these issues.
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85
Xboxachievements.com
Feb 17, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
A cracking remake and stellar localization that retains the authenticity and unique flavor of the series
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85
Cgmagonline.com
Feb 17, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a must-play for fans of the Yakuza series, with a balanced mix of serious story beats and over-the-top action sequences.
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85
Xboxtavern.com
Mar 13, 2023
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Like a Dragon Ishin! has all the qualities you would expect from a game in the Yakuza series. It looks and feels like a modern game, but certain aspects remind you that it is a remake of an older game. It's a great entry point for newcomers to the series.
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