Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will be released on February 21, 2025. This action-adventure game adds an exciting chapter to the popular series. Players will take on the role of Goro Majima, a character who now leads a pirate crew across tropical islands. The Like a Dragon series is known for its engaging stories and fast-paced action in the Japanese underworld.
The new spin-off takes players to sunny Hawaii, moving away from the usual urban Japanese settings. This change brings a new theme—pirates—and focuses on the fan-favorite character Goro Majima. This new setting doesn’t just change the background; it also introduces fresh gameplay elements. The game features Majima with amnesia, leading a pirate crew six months after Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024).
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza will be available on February 21, 2025, for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, and Steam. Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has created a unique spin-off that follows the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Majima finds himself stranded on an island, leading to a surprising pirate adventure. The game will launch on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
Disclosure: Our editors independently select and evaluate products. If you purchase through our links we may earn a small commission that helps support our research.
Sega has confirmed that this pirate tale fits into the Yakuza canon, despite its unconventional premise. Fans can look forward to exploring new tropical settings while searching for treasure with Majima and his crew. The game promises to blend familiar Yakuza elements with fresh pirate-themed gameplay.
Charting a Course for Adventure: Like a Dragon’s Pirate Turn
What is Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza?
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza is a new action game from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and Sega. It’s a spin-off of the popular Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) series. This time, the story takes us to Hawaii, where Goro Majima, a fan-favorite character, finds himself with amnesia and leading a pirate crew. The game mixes the series’ signature blend of drama, humor, and intense combat, but with a pirate twist.
When Does it Come Out and What Platforms Will it Be On?
The game launches on February 21, 2025. It will be available on many platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, and Steam. This wide release means most players should be able to experience Majima’s pirate adventure.
Pre-order Standard on Playstation 5 | Collector’s Edition
Pre-Order Standard Edition On PS4
Pre-Order Standard Edition on XBOX | Collector’s Edition
What are the Pre-order Bonuses?
If you pre-order Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza, you’ll receive some digital goodies: the “Ichiban Pirate Crew Set” and the “Ichiban Special Outfit Set.” These add-ons give you extra content to enjoy in the game. Also, if you sign up for email updates by February 25, 2025, you get Kazuma Kiryu’s “Dragon of Dojima” outfit for Majima. This is a nice nod to the series’ past.
How Does the Combat Work?
Majima has two main fighting styles in this game:
- Mad Dog: This is Majima’s classic, wild style. It’s fast and unpredictable.
- Sea Dog: This new style uses pirate weapons and tactics. Expect some new moves and ways to fight.
The game will have both land and sea battles, adding variety to the action.
What Makes This Game Different?
This game is a spin-off, meaning it tells a separate story from the main Like a Dragon games. It takes place six months after the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024). The pirate theme is a big change for the series. It brings new settings, characters, and gameplay mechanics. The amnesia plot adds an interesting twist to Majima’s character.
What We Know About the Story
Majima wakes up with no memory on Rich Island in Hawaii. A local boy named Noah Rich takes him in. Majima then becomes the captain of a pirate group and gets mixed up in conflicts with other pirates and former yakuza. This sets the stage for a new and exciting story in the Like a Dragon universe.
Comparing Like a Dragon Titles
The table below shows some key differences between this game and other Like a Dragon titles:
| Feature | Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza | Main Like a Dragon Games |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Hawaii (Rich Island) | Various Japanese cities |
| Protagonist | Goro Majima | Ichiban Kasuga (recent), Kazuma Kiryu (past) |
| Theme | Pirates, amnesia | Yakuza life, organized crime |
| Gameplay Focus | Land and sea combat | Urban exploration, street brawls |
What About Future Games?
Right now, this is a standalone spin-off. There are no official announcements for sequels or other pirate-themed games. But if this game does well, we might see more in the future.
Exploring Other Action Adventure Games
If you enjoy action-adventure games like Like a Dragon, there are many other titles you might like. Games like the Uncharted series offer cinematic action and exploration. The Assassin’s Creed games let you explore historical settings and engage in stealth and combat. These games share some elements with Like a Dragon, such as story-driven gameplay and exciting combat, but offer different settings and themes. For instance, the Yakuza series is known for its detailed recreations of real Japanese cities, while the Assassin’s Creed series is known for its historical settings. Each game has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s worth checking out reviews and gameplay videos to see which ones appeal to you most.
Game Overview
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii introduces players to a tropical adventure with Goro Majima at the helm. This action-packed game blends pirate themes with the familiar Yakuza universe.
Setting and Premise
The game takes place in Hawaii after the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Goro Majima, a series mainstay, finds himself stranded on an island with amnesia. He becomes the leader of a pirate crew, setting sail across tropical islands in search of treasure.
Players will explore a vibrant Hawaiian setting filled with opportunities for adventure and combat. The tropical landscape serves as a backdrop for Majima’s pirate exploits, offering a fresh twist on the Like a Dragon series’ usual urban environments.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii features action-adventure gameplay. Players will lead Majima’s pirate crew, engaging in various activities across the islands.
Combat plays a significant role, likely incorporating the series’ signature over-the-top fighting styles. The game introduces new pirate-themed elements, including:
- Real-time cannon battles
- Ship navigation and upgrades
- Crew management and recruitment
- Treasure hunting and island exploration
Explosive combos and unique pirate-themed abilities will likely feature in the combat system, offering a fresh take on the series’ traditional fighting mechanics.
Canon and Continuity
Despite its wild premise, Sega has confirmed that Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is part of the official Yakuza canon. This spin-off connects to the main series storyline, taking place after the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
The game’s narrative will likely explore how Majima ended up in Hawaii and lost his memories. It may also provide insights into his character development and connections to the broader Yakuza universe.
Players can expect references to past events and characters from the series, maintaining continuity while embarking on this unique pirate adventure.
Launch, Editions, and Developer Insights
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is set to release on February 21, 2025. The game will offer multiple editions and exclusive content for early purchasers. Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, the developers behind the project, have shared insights into the game’s creation.
Release Details and Editions
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will launch on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. Players can choose from several editions:
- Standard Edition: Base game
- Deluxe Edition: Includes additional content
- Complete Box: Physical collector’s edition
Early purchasers will receive bonus content. The Legendary Pirate Crew Pack and Legendary Outfit Pack are available as pre-order incentives. A Ship Customization Pack will also be offered.
Downloadable content is planned post-launch. The first DLC is scheduled for February 28, 2025, adding New Game+ mode as a free update.
Developer and Studio
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, also known as RGG Studio, is the team behind Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. The studio has a strong track record with the Yakuza series.
Masayoshi Yokoyama, a key figure at RGG Studio, has provided insights into the game’s development. At RGG Summit 2024, the team shared details on:
- Land and sea combat systems
- Ship customization features
- Crew building mechanics
- Side activities
The developers aim to blend familiar Yakuza elements with new pirate-themed gameplay. Their goal is to create a unique experience within the established Yakuza canon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans eagerly await the release of “Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.” This unique spin-off has generated excitement and curiosity among players. Here are answers to some common questions about the game.
What is the expected release date for ‘Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’?
“Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii” is set to release on February 21, 2025. This date applies to all platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
Will ‘Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’ feature Goro Majima as the main character?
Yes, Goro Majima takes center stage in this spin-off. The game focuses on Majima’s adventures after he becomes stranded on an island and loses his memories. Players will guide Majima as he leads a pirate crew across tropical islands.
Does ‘Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’ take place within the official Yakuza series canon?
Sega has confirmed that “Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii” is part of the official Yakuza series canon. The game’s events occur after “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” (2024), continuing the series’ timeline.
Which gaming platforms will ‘Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’ be available on?
The game will be available on multiple platforms. Players can enjoy it on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Windows and Steam.
Will there be a multiplayer mode in ‘Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’?
Information about multiplayer features has not been officially announced. The game primarily focuses on Majima’s solo adventure as a pirate leader. More details may emerge closer to the release date.
How does the Hawaiian setting influence gameplay in ‘Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’?
The Hawaiian setting brings a fresh twist to the Yakuza formula. Players will explore tropical islands, likely engaging in pirate-themed activities. The game may incorporate elements of naval exploration and island-hopping into its gameplay mechanics.
