The decision to go turn-based in Yakuza Like a Dragon was a move that split the fanbase. Some liked the bold new direction for the series, while others preferred the brawls that have defined Yakuza combat since the early 2000s. In this guide, we'll answer the question on everyone's minds - is Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name turn-based?
Fans first thought the combat systems of the newest games could go either way, despite news that the games would 'stay turn-based from now on'. Turn-based combat was adopted for the series' newest protagonist Ichiban Kasuga, however, Like a Dragon Gaiden sees Kazuma Kiryu returning in one of the game's leading roles.
If you're hungry for more Like a Dragon, check out our guide to the best fighting styles in Like a Dragon Ishin, and check out our feature exploring the tortured soul of Kiryu's character.
Is Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name turn-based?
No, Like a Dragon Gaiden is not turn-based.
The game's combat system returns to its roots, delivering a brawler experience that fans of the previous games will be very familiar with. In Like a Dragon Gaiden, Kiryu boasts two fighting styles with their own unique move sets.
The Agent style is based around high-tech gadgets and speedy takedowns, using drones and ropes alongside air strikes to deal with multiple enemies at once. It's safe to say that this is the more exciting of the two styles, as the developers have clearly had a lot of fun making creative spy gadgets.
The other style, Yakuza, is all about aggression. Like the Beast and Brawler styles before it, players can expect to deliver devastating punches and kicks with heat actions finishing off enemies in style. It's also possible to swing enemies around and launch them into each other while in Yakuza fighting style.
An official gameplay trailer also shows segments where players control Kiryu in combat scenarios. The footage in the trailer appears to veer away from the turn-based system in favour of the classic button-mashing brawler style fans know and love.
That's everything you need to know about the combat of Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name! Before you go, learn about the upcoming Like a Dragon 8 and find out how to unlock the Infinite Wealth demo.