Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth: PS5 Review

Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Published by SEGA
Platform: PS5

The ninth entrant into the Like A Dragon series may seem like an inpenetrable entrance point for those who've never touched the world, but thanks to its ease of accessibility, the latest game proves to be a solid jumping on point for all.

The newest Yakuza episode sees you taking control of Ichiban Kasuga as he tries to help out others looking to get out of the Yakuza world. But while the game begins in Japan, it soon switches to a Hawaii locale as a seemingly long lost biological family member comes to the fore.

With huge maps in Japan and an even bigger one in Hawaii, there is no denying there's plenty to do in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth - and plenty that will frustrate if you're not really in the mood or in a financial position to walk everywhere. But while initially it all appears a little overwhelming, it soon becomes clear the game is about rewarding as much as you want to put in.

Essentially a turn-based game that relies on a bit of strategy and forethought, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is undoubtedly the kind of game that it's easy to immerse and lose yourself in. Combat relies on special skills, which work on button choices and allows for street objects to be used as weapons - realistic touches like this make the game feel like it's vibrant and alive rather than simply being part of its static environment.

With mountains of story to get through initially, some of the text-based dialogue may seem like a bit of a bind, and in parts, the game feels like a little of a grind before it truly finds its momentum. But bearing with it pays dividends, as you get to wander around a world that has been set up for free-roaming and which benefits greatly from it with NPCs, mini-games and locales that positively sing and vibe with the game.

From photography shoots, delivery missions, escape missions, memory games, quick-time events, there's much to do if you don't feel like diving into the resonant main storyline.

Ultimately, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth may be the ninth entrant into the series, but with a realistic real life sensibility it shows the series is in very rude health.