The Yakuza / Like a Dragon franchise’s success was limited to a niche audience in Japan for the longest time, but recent years have seen it attract a global audience. As it enjoys increasingly bigger wins, the series has also hit its 19th anniversary, commemorating which developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has shared a message from studio director and executive producer Masayoshi Yokoyama.
In a video shared on Twitter, Yokoyama briefly spoke about the studio’s plans leading up to the series’ 20th anniversary a year from now, which, in addition to several announcements and updates, will, of course, also include the launch of Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii in February.
“19 years have passed since the first game in the series was released in Japan, and today marks the start of the year leading up to the 20th anniversary,” Yokoyama said. “First, early next year on February 21, 2025, we will release Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.
“Set in Hawaii after the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, the title sees the series’ famous character, Goro Majima, going on a rampage as a pirate. It features a refreshing story and exhilarating battle action that can be enjoyed even if you have no experience with the latest or previous titles.”
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio likes to release new games in the Like a Dragon franchise at a pretty steady pace, so it wouldn’t surprise us to see the developer announce more upcoming instalments in the coming months- especially to celebrate the series’ upcoming 20th anniversary. Perhaps another remake might also be on the cards?
For now, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is due out on February 21 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, and PC.
Happy Like a Dragon Day!🐉
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio Director and Executive Producer Masayoshi Yokoyama would like to share a message to commemorate this occasion🎉
Thank you continuing to support us and the series🙏 pic.twitter.com/mCNJ9nGg2s
— RGG Studio | Like a Dragon & Yakuza Series (@RGGStudio) December 8, 2024
