Is Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth turn-based?

Ichiban Kasuga in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Credit: RGG Studio

Ichiban Kasuga in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Credit: RGG Studio

Are you wondering if Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a turn-based RPG or goes back to a more action-oriented gameplay? We got the answer right here.

The Like a Dragon series, formerly known as Yakuza outside Japan, was widely known for inventive real-time combat. Players can use combos and objects found in the environment to their advantage during battles.

That all changed with Yakuza: Like a Dragon (or simply Like a Dragon 7), when on top of moving away from series mainstay Kazuma Kiryu, the developers made a complete 180 with the combat, shifting to a classic turn-based system while retaining some of the core aspects of previous games.

With recent titles in the series, such as the Kiryu-centric spin-off Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, returning to a more classic combat style, some fans are wondering if Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth will do the same.

So, is Like a Dragon 8 turn-based? Time to find out. While you're here, check out the PC system requirements to see if your rig will be able to run it smoothly.

Is Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth turn-based?

A screenshot of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth showcasing its turn-based combat
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Credit: RGG Studio
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a turn-based RPG

The answer is yes, Like a Dragon 8 has maintained the gameplay shift from Like a Dragon 7 and retained the turn-based gameplay some players love, but others might dislike.

Even Kazuma Kiryu, who's a playable character in this game, will have his abilities adapted to a new style of play. However, as you progress through the story, you'll unlock an ability that allows him to break free from the chains of turn-based combat, wreaking havoc like the good old days.

If you didn't enjoy the previous instalment in the series, you might not be satisfied with the latest one either. However, RGG Studio has implemented some significant quality-of-life improvements to enhance the combat experience.

These changes include the ability to move characters around a small arena, allowing you to use weapons found on the streets and position yourself strategically to deal more damage with area-of-effect abilities.

Sadly, if you were hoping the series would return to a more classic format, you're out of luck. If you love turn-based gameplay, however, you won't want to miss out on Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, set to release on January 26 on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.

For more content, check out all returning characters in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Any fan-favourites making a return?