Yakuza: Like a Dragon reimagines the long-standing Yakuza formula with bold changes that might throw even the most seasoned fans off balance. With a fresh protagonist, a new setting, and an RPG combat system replacing the beat-’em-up mechanics, the game introduces layers of depth that are exciting—but can be overwhelming. Whether you’re stepping into Ijincho for the first time or returning as a veteran, these essential tips, distilled from over 100 hours of gameplay, will help you make the most of your journey alongside Ichiban Kasuga.
1. Prioritize the Business Management Minigame Early On
One of the most crucial yet easily overlooked elements is the business management minigame. Don’t delay—get into it as soon as it’s available. It’s not just a decent side hustle; it’s the best way to generate significant income in the game. You’ll need cash for crafting, summoning delivery help, and equipping your party with top-tier gear. But beyond the monetary rewards, completing this minigame grants you access to an optional party member: Eri.
Eri is more than a bonus—recruiting her early can greatly stabilize your party composition. Shortly after business management becomes available, one of your core characters will be temporarily removed from the group for several chapters. Without Eri, you’ll be stuck with just three members, making combat encounters far more taxing. Starting the business management path early ensures your team stays versatile and strong during that lull.
2. Substories Are More Than Sidequests
In Like a Dragon, substories play a much bigger role than just offering comic relief or narrative fluff. They’re vital for progression. Substories yield crafting materials, unlock new delivery help summons, and increase Ichiban’s personality stats—traits required to access certain jobs, vendors, and even more substories. They serve as a gateway to content that otherwise stays locked behind stat or relationship barriers.
If you’re the kind of player who usually rushes the main storyline, consider slowing down and investing time in these optional quests. Not only do they deepen the game world and flesh out its characters, but they save you the trouble of having to spend hefty sums on stat-boosting tests later on.
3. Build Party Bonds for Job Flexibility
Relationships matter in Yakuza: Like a Dragon, and not just for narrative purposes. A Persona-style bond system tracks your closeness with each party member. You increase this relationship XP by fighting together, eating at restaurants, or engaging in dialogue while exploring. Once a bond is full, you can trigger special events at the Survive Bar, unlocking new layers to each character’s personality.
What makes this essential is that certain jobs are gated behind relationship levels. If you want your allies to reach their potential through job changes, you’ll need to put in the time to bond with them. Strengthening these ties isn’t just a feel-good activity—it directly empowers your team’s combat potential.
4. Make Ichiban a Demolitionist—Even Just Temporarily
As part of the story, you’ll eventually visit Hello Work to assign and change jobs. When this happens, make Ichiban a Demolitionist at least once. Why? Because certain areas in the game and its dungeons are blocked by breakable walls—and only Demolitionists with the exploration passive can break them down.
Even if you don’t plan to use the Demolitionist class in battle, this short-term switch unlocks more of the world to you. It’s a classic case of “you don’t know what you’re missing”—until you literally can’t get through a door.
5. Invest in Crafting—Especially for Later Challenges
The game’s crafting system may look barebones at first, but don’t sleep on it. Early on, shop-bought gear might be sufficient for casual play. However, when you approach tougher battles and post-game content, crafting becomes essential. The best weapons and equipment are locked behind this system.
To unlock its potential, invest money into Sumire’s workshop. Each upgrade opens up more recipes and better tools. Like many things in Yakuza, the system rewards commitment and planning. Give her the cash she asks for, and she’ll give you access to the best tools for surviving the game’s most brutal fights.
6. Register Taxis for Fast Travel Efficiency
Ijincho is massive, and walking everywhere can become a chore. Fortunately, taxis allow for fast travel between previously visited areas. But here’s the catch—just passing by a taxi won’t register it. You have to physically interact with each one to unlock it for future use.
Get in the habit of activating taxis whenever you come across them. It’s a small act that adds up to huge time savings later, especially when juggling multiple quests across different districts.
7. Embrace Shock Damage and Charm Abilities
Certain status effects can swing the tide of battle in your favor—none more so than Shock and Charm. Shock paralyzes enemies and disables their ability to block, which is especially handy as block-happy foes become more common. Charm, on the other hand, causes enemies to become passive for extended periods—even while they’re being attacked.
Later in the game, you’ll face off against enemies resistant to almost every damage type. One particularly tough foe is actually weak to Shock, making this status effect more than just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Be sure your party has access to these debuffs and incorporates them into your strategies.
Final Thoughts
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a fresh take on a beloved series, and with these tips in your toolkit, you’ll be well-prepared to take on its challenges. From making smart early-game choices like business management and party bonding to leveraging late-game systems like crafting and status effects, each decision you make can dramatically influence your journey.
For those seeking deeper insights into optimal job setups, be sure to look up dedicated guides to class roles for each party member. They can help tailor your playstyle and ensure you’re squeezing every ounce of efficiency from your team.
Until then, stay sharp—and enjoy your time in Ijincho. Ichiban and company are waiting.
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