Like a Dragon: Ishin. The best games of 2023 – the ultimate list
Table of Contents
Like a Dragon: Ishin, SEGA, 2023
- Release date: February 21
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X & S, Xbox One
- Our rating: 8/10
Another remake on our list, this time one of Yakuza spin-offs. The original, Yakuza Ishin, was released in 2014 and was a spin-off of the famous series about the Japanese mafia. The action of the game takes us to Japan from the 19th century – the end of the samurai era. Our hero – Sakamoto Ryoma – is a historical figure, although he's looks a lot like Kiryu, known from the Yakuza. Searching for the murderer of his mentor, Sakamoto arrives in Kyo City with only one clue – the killer's distinctive fighting style. Despite the shift towards a historical setting, the gameplay formula remained faithful to the series pedigree, so in addition to combat and exploration, we can count on a lot of various side activities, particularly quirky and original ones.
It may not have turned out to be as polished a remake as in the case of Dead Space, but most critics were generally satisfied with this version of Like a Dragon: Ishin. The side activities, such as visiting shops and restaurants, fishing or karaoke, were especially appreciated! The game also boasts an engaging storyline and good combat mechanics. Only some technical glitches can spoil the fun, but they do not hide the fact that Like a Dragon: Ishin is one of the most interesting productions you can play this year.
Ishin not only features classic themes Like a Dragon is known for, but it also manages to mix in enough variety in its mini-games and side stories to give us a new way to enjoy all the action, brawls, and ridiculousness we have come to expect from the series.
Giancarlo Saldana, Like a Dragon: Ishin review
