Like a Dragon Ishin: How to start Substories? Like a Dragon Ishin guide, tips
This guide page explains how to unlock Substories in Like a Dragon Ishin. You will learn the rules for starting side missions and whether Substories are marked on the map with special icons.
Last update: 02 March 2023
There are many optional activities available in Like a Dragon: Ishin and side quests known as Substories are one of them are side quests - Substories. On this page of the guide, you will learn how to start Substories, how to find them on the map and whether the game can display icons related to Substories on the map.
Activating Substories
In Like a Dragon Ishin, there are as many as 72 Substories, but these optional quests are not marked with icons on the map by default. You have to find them yourself.
A Substory starts automatically after reaching the location associated with it on the world map:
- There might be a cutscene related to the side quest;
- A character may approach you and ask for help.
You can also start substories by talking to the characters you meet on your way. It's hard to tell the difference between them and just NPCs, saying random dialogue lines. If a "normal" conversation has started, skip the dialogues to end it as soon as possible.
We recommend walking the streets of each newly discovered district. Also check both times of the day, because some Substories start at night time only.
The starting points for Substories are described on a separate page of the guide, in the Secrets and activities chapter.
Inviting Hat - an item for finding new Substories
Later in the game, you can get an item that will help you locate undiscovered side missions. In the western part of the Mibu district, you can meet a boy talking about a bear he spotted. Overhearing this conversation will unlock Substory #63 - The Boy Who Cried Bear.
Substory link - Substory #63 - The Boy Who Cried Bear.
As part of the aforementioned side mission, you have to defeat a huge bear. The reward for completing the quest is the Inviting Hat - a Headband. After wearing it, the game will mark the available Substories on the map with an exclamation mark icon.
Additional note - Remember that some Substories can only be started at a certain time of day. Put on the hat after changing the time of day to evening or night.
Side quest markers on the map
Some Substories are completed in the same location you started them in, but there are also those that require you to visit other locations. Exclamation marks may then appear on the city map (example in the picture) - they serve as a hint where you need to go. Exclamation marks are displayed only if your character knows at least an approximate destination.