Explore our in-depth review of Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, uncovering how its engaging narrative, dynamic combat, and unique themes go far beyond material wealth.
The Like A Dragon series (previously known as Yakuza) has always been about more than just its gangster facade. Underneath the gritty world of crime, it has told stories of loyalty, family, and personal redemption.
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth follows in this tradition, delivering an experience that revolves not only around accumulating material wealth but also delving deep into the bonds between characters, the value of personal growth, and the price of ambition.
This latest entry in the series builds on the strengths of its predecessors, offering a captivating story, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a level of emotional depth that transcends the typical crime drama.
In this review, we’ll examine how Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth offers a narrative that’s about much more than money, while also providing players with thrilling combat and a rich, immersive world.
A Tale of Loyalty, Ambition, and Redemption
At its core, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth tells the story of Ichiban Kasuga, a man who, after facing betrayal and imprisonment, emerges determined to rebuild his life and fight for his place in a world where loyalty is rare and ambition comes at a price.
The game explores the highs and lows of chasing wealth, but it does so with a deeper focus on the emotional and psychological costs that come with it.
As with previous games in the series, the narrative is driven by richly developed characters, each with their own motivations, dreams, and internal struggles. While money plays a central role in the plot, the real heart of the story lies in the relationships Ichiban forges along the way.
Whether it’s the friendships that grow out of hardship or the familial bonds that are tested by greed, Infinite Wealth delves into what it truly means to have—and lose—wealth, both material and emotional.
Gameplay: A Balance of Strategy and Action
One of the most notable shifts in the Like A Dragon series was the transition from action-based combat to turn-based RPG mechanics in Like A Dragon: Yakuza.
Infinite Wealth continues this evolution, offering turn-based combat that feels dynamic and fluid, with a heavy emphasis on strategy. Battles require a thoughtful approach, as players must consider the strengths, weaknesses, and abilities of their party members.
However, the game doesn’t skimp on action. The combat animations are engaging and often over-the-top, fitting with the series’ quirky sense of humor. Special attacks, known as “Heat Actions,” return in full force, allowing players to unleash devastating moves in battle.
The game also introduces new combat features that add layers of complexity, such as environmental interactions and a wider range of tactical options for party members.
While combat is a significant part of the gameplay, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth maintains a perfect balance by incorporating a variety of mini-games, side quests, and exploration activities.
From managing real estate empires to participating in absurd yet entertaining side stories, there is always something to do in the game’s expansive world. These distractions help break up the intensity of the main story and provide players with a sense of freedom and agency.
Money Matters – But Not How You Think
As the title suggests, wealth plays a central role in the game. But in Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, the pursuit of riches isn’t just about accumulating cash for the sake of it.
Instead, the game presents money as a tool—one that can be used for both good and evil, depending on the player’s choices. Throughout the story, Ichiban’s relationship with wealth evolves, forcing players to think critically about the impact of their decisions.
The game introduces a robust financial system where players can invest in businesses, trade on the stock market, and build their empire. But it also explores the darker side of wealth, showing how greed can corrupt even the most honorable characters.
Players must navigate this delicate balance, understanding that while money can open doors, it can also come at the cost of personal integrity and relationships.
This nuanced approach to wealth sets Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth apart from other RPGs that treat currency as a mere resource for buying items.
Here, money is intertwined with the story and character development, reinforcing the game’s central theme: wealth is about more than just what you own—it’s about what you give and what you sacrifice.
A World Rich in Detail
The world of Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth by LI Games is a sprawling, vibrant city full of life, opportunity, and danger.
The attention to detail in the game’s environments is impressive, with every street corner, alleyway, and storefront packed with activities and side quests that further immerse players in the game’s universe.
From neon-lit districts that pulse with nightlife to quiet residential areas that hide dark secrets, Infinite Wealth offers a wide variety of settings that feel authentic and alive.
Players can explore these locations at their leisure, participating in side stories that range from deeply emotional to hilariously absurd. These side stories, or “substories,” are a hallmark of the series and provide moments of levity in the otherwise serious main narrative.
In addition to the city’s diverse locales, the game’s NPCs (non-playable characters) are filled with personality, offering quirky interactions that bring humor and charm to the experience.
Whether it’s helping a down-on-his-luck businessman or getting caught up in a ridiculous feud between rival ramen shops, players are always rewarded for exploring every corner of the world.
Music and Sound Design: A Perfect Match
The soundtrack of Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is another standout feature. The game blends a mix of energetic, upbeat tracks with more somber, emotional pieces, perfectly complementing the shifting tones of the narrative.
From intense battle themes that heighten the adrenaline during combat to relaxing background music that sets the mood during exploration, the music elevates the entire experience.
Voice acting also shines in this installment. Both the English and Japanese voice casts deliver standout performances, with particular praise going to Ichiban’s voice actor, who brings warmth, vulnerability, and strength to the character.
The emotional depth of the performances adds another layer of immersion, making the characters and their stories feel even more impactful.
Final Verdict
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a masterclass in storytelling, balancing humor, heart, and action in a world that feels alive and full of possibility.
While the game centers around the pursuit of wealth, it ultimately explores what it means to be truly rich—through relationships, personal growth, and the choices we make along the way.
For both long-time fans of the series and newcomers alike, Infinite Wealth offers an experience that is both familiar and fresh, with enough depth to keep players invested from start to finish.
It’s a game that proves once again that in the world of Like A Dragon, money may be important, but it’s not everything.