Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – PlayStation 5 Review: A Hawaiian Dream (and Nightmare) Worth Experiencing!

Are you ready to swap the neon-lit streets of Kamurocho for the sunny, bustling beaches of Hawaii? If you’re a fan of epic storytelling, quirky humor, and deeply engaging role-playing, then Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – PlayStation 5 might just be your next gaming obsession. As the latest mainline entry in the beloved Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) series, this game doesn’t just meet expectations – it sails past them on a giant,
fire-breathing float.

Available for PlayStation 5, this much-anticipated title takes players on an unforgettable journey, merging the iconic Yakuza blend of serious drama and outlandish absurdity. Let’s dive deep into why this adventure is making waves. You can grab your copy of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – PlayStation 5 and embark on your own Hawaiian adventure right here: Buy Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – PlayStation 5 on Amazon.

First Impressions: Paradise Found (and Lost)

From the moment you boot up Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, the stunning visual fidelity on PlayStation 5 is immediately apparent. Hawaii feels vibrant and alive, a sprawling playground brimming with detail, character, and endless opportunities for mischief. The game seamlessly blends the familiar feel of the series with a fresh, exotic backdrop. This isn’t just a new location; it’s a character in itself, influencing everything from combat encounters to the side activities you’ll stumble upon.

Key Features & Gameplay: More Than Just a Punch-Up!

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth excels by evolving the beloved turn-based RPG combat system introduced in Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Here’s what makes it shine:

Dynamic Turn-Based Combat: While still turn-based, the combat feels incredibly fluid and strategic. Characters can move around a small area, allowing for tactical positioning to hit multiple enemies or gain environmental advantages. The sheer variety of jobs (classes) and their outrageous abilities will keep you experimenting for hours. Ever wanted to fight as a hero who uses surfboards, or a geodancer who channels the power of the earth? Now’s your chance!
Dual Protagonists, Double the Fun: For the first time, you’ll primarily play as two iconic heroes: the ever-optimistic Ichiban Kasuga and the legendary “Dragon of Dojima” himself, Kazuma Kiryu. Their intertwined storylines offer a masterful blend of new beginnings and heartfelt goodbyes, providing emotional depth rarely seen in games. Kiryu’s “Dragon of Dojima” fighting style, reminiscent of classic Yakuza action, adds a thrilling real-time element to his turn-based combat.
A Massive, Living World (or Two!): Explore the vastness of Honolulu, Hawaii, and revisit familiar haunts in Yokohama. Both locations are packed with side quests, mini-games, and quirky characters that make exploration incredibly rewarding.
Dondoko Island: This isn’t just a mini-game; it’s almost a game within a game! Imagine Animal Crossing meets Yakuza. You’re tasked with transforming a dilapidated island into a five-star resort, gathering resources, building facilities, and even fending off hostile wildlife. It’s an incredibly addictive distraction that offers a charming break from the main narrative’s intensity.
A Story for the Ages: The narrative weaves together themes of identity, legacy, friendship, and finding purpose. It tackles weighty subjects with grace, while still delivering the series’ signature laugh-out-loud moments and over-the-top antics.

The Good, The Bad, and The Unforgettable

Like any epic journey, Infinite Wealth has its highs and minor bumps.

Pros:

Phenomenal Storytelling: The narrative is deeply emotional and genuinely compelling, perfectly balancing lighthearted fun with weighty drama, especially concerning Kiryu’s storyline.
Engaging, Evolved Combat: The turn-based system is refined, offering more tactical depth and a wider array of spectacular abilities.
Vibrant New Setting: Hawaii is beautifully rendered and full of unique activities and characters, providing a refreshing change of scenery.
Hours of Content: Between the sprawling main story, countless side quests (Substories), Dondoko Island, and various mini-games, you’ll get incredible value for your money and hundreds of hours of gameplay.
Unforgettable Characters: Both new and returning characters are brilliantly written and voiced, making you genuinely care about their fates.

Cons:

Pacing Can Be Slow: The very beginning can feel a little slow as the plot sets up, and some cutscenes are quite long.
Potential for Grinding: While not always necessary, some players might feel the need to grind for experience or money, particularly for optional content or tougher boss fights.
Dialogue Heavy: Fans of the series will be used to this, but new players might find the sheer volume of dialogue and exposition overwhelming at times.

User Impressions (General Sentiment)

Players are overwhelmingly positive about Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Many praise its bold narrative choices, especially regarding Kiryu’s arc, and the seamless transition to the Hawaiian setting. The Dondoko Island mini-game has been a particular highlight for many, providing a relaxing yet addictive diversion. While some acknowledge the occasional pacing issues, the general consensus is that this is a masterful entry that pushes the series forward while honoring its roots, cementing its place as one of the best RPGs on the PlayStation 5.

Who is Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Best For?

Long-time Yakuza/Like a Dragon Fans: This is an absolute must-play for anyone who has followed the series. It’s a culmination of years of storytelling and a beautiful send-off (or continuation) for beloved characters.
JRPG Enthusiasts: If you love turn-based combat, deep character progression, and sprawling narratives with plenty of side content, this game will tick all your boxes.
Players Who Appreciate Unique Storytelling: If you enjoy games that blend serious drama with quirky humor and aren’t afraid to get weird, you’re in for a treat.
Those Looking for Hundreds of Hours of Gameplay: This game offers an incredible amount of content that will keep you entertained for weeks, if not months.

Final Verdict: An Epic Journey Not To Be Missed!

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is more than just a game; it’s an experience. It’s a heartfelt, hilarious, and utterly compelling journey that leverages the power of the PlayStation 5 to deliver a truly immersive world. Whether you’re a veteran of Kamurocho’s streets or a newcomer to the captivating world of Like a Dragon, this game offers an unparalleled adventure that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Don’t miss out on one of the year’s most talked-about and critically acclaimed RPGs.

Ready to pack your bags for Hawaii? Click here to secure your copy of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – PlayStation 5 and begin your unforgettable adventure today!
Buy Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – PlayStation 5 on Amazon!

FAQ

Q. What kind of game is Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth on PlayStation 5?
A. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a turn-based role-playing game (RPG) with strong action-adventure and life simulation elements. It continues the series’ tradition of deep storytelling, engaging side activities, and unique humor, now with an expanded combat system.

Q. Is Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth a direct sequel to previous games?
A. Yes, Infinite Wealth is a direct sequel to Yakuza: Like a Dragon and also follows up on events from Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name. It brings back protagonist Ichiban Kasuga and sees the return of legendary yakuza Kazuma Kiryu as a co-protagonist.

Q. Where does the game primarily take place?
A. While the game starts and has sections in Japan, a significant portion of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is set in Honolulu, Hawaii, making it the first time a main game in the series has a major setting outside of Japan.

Q. How does the combat system work in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth?
A. It retains the turn-based RPG combat system introduced in Yakuza: Like a Dragon. However, it features significant improvements, allowing players to move characters within a certain radius during their turn, enabling strategic positioning for environmental attacks, back attacks, and combo opportunities with allies.

Q. Does the PlayStation 5 version of Infinite Wealth offer specific enhancements?
A. Yes, the PlayStation 5 version takes advantage of the console’s capabilities, offering faster loading times due to the SSD, improved graphical fidelity, higher resolutions (often targeting 4K), and generally smoother performance. While specific DualSense features vary, it generally enhances the immersive experience.

Q. Do I need to play previous Like a Dragon games to understand Infinite Wealth?
A. While Infinite Wealth is designed to be relatively accessible, having played Yakuza: Like a Dragon (to understand Ichiban Kasuga’s story and the turn-based combat) and at least being familiar with Kazuma Kiryu’s journey (perhaps through Like a Dragon Gaiden) will significantly enhance your understanding of the characters, their relationships, and the emotional weight of the narrative.

Q. Are there different editions of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth available on PS5?
A. Yes, typically there are multiple editions available, such as a Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition (often including a Master Vacation Bundle with bonus content like a New Game+ mode, special costumes, and an added dungeon), and an Ultimate Edition (which usually bundles all Deluxe content plus additional costume packs and a “Sujimon & Resorts” management game pack). Always check the PlayStation Store for current offerings.