Yakuza Series Will Continue to Use Turn-Based RPG Systems; Judgment to Focus on Action

Developer Ryu ga Gotoku Studios has shaken up the longstanding action-focused Yakuza series in the most recent release, Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Instead of being a brawl fest, the game features a turn-based fighting system with a brand new protagonist who really likes Dragon Quest.

However, many have wondered what would be in store for future installments of the series. Well, in an interview with IGN, Yakuza creator Toshihiro Nagoshi and producer Kazuki Hosokawa shared that the Judgement series will carry the torch for action gameplay, and the Yakuza series will evolve into a turn-based RPG.

The quote stated, “The Yakuza series has been transformed into a turn-based RPG. On the other hand, over the year, Ryu ga Gotoku Studio has accumulated resources and know-how of making flashy and exhilarating action games that are effortless to enjoy. We decided that we should let our signature action gameplay live on through Lost Judgement.”

Yakuza: Like a Dragon is the seventh entry in the Yakuza series and will star actors Shinichi Tsutsumi, Ken Yasuda, and Kiichi Nakai, who will be lending their appearances and voices to the game’s prominent cast members along with Kazuhiro Nakaya voicing the game’s main protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon stars a brand new protagonist for the first time since the series began, Ichiban Kasuga, who is a low-level yakuza member trying to make it in the world. His story will lead him to form a crew of unlikely allies as he attempts to follow his dreams from rags to riches.

In case you missed it, check out our review of Yakuza: Like a Dragon and our coverage on Lost Judgement.