“Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth,” the latest entry in the renowned Yakuza game series, is poised to set a new benchmark for the franchise. Touted as the longest game in the series, it promises an extensive and immersive gaming experience.
This was revealed in an interview with Masayoshi Yokoyama, the head of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, who described the game as a “monster-class” in terms of length, surpassing all their previous creations.
The sheer scale of “Infinite Wealth” presents both excitement and challenges. According to Yokoyama, completing this game is not a feat that can be achieved in a couple of all-nighters.
This extended gameplay could potentially deter players or leave many copies gathering dust on shelves, a prospect Yokoyama finds disheartening. He emphasized the need to generate enough excitement to encourage players to dive into and complete the game, even if it takes a significant amount of time.
A Creative Approach to Gameplay Engagement
Yokoyama’s approach goes beyond just creating a long game. He believes it’s the studio’s responsibility to create a buzz around “Infinite Wealth,” likening it to starting a festival.
This enthusiasm is crucial for encouraging players to engage with such an expansive game. He humorously notes that it would be almost disrespectful to release a game of such magnitude without fostering sufficient excitement.
Comparing to Previous Yakuza Titles
To put “Infinite Wealth’s” length into perspective, the 2020 release of “Like a Dragon” could run for over 50 hours, especially when accounting for the grind. Earlier games in the series, primarily centered around the character Kiryu, ranged between 20 to 30 hours of gameplay focused on the main story.
“Infinite Wealth” not only exceeds these durations but also introduces expansive new elements, like an Animal Crossing-style island, adding to its complexity and appeal.
For eager fans, a taste of “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” is currently available through a demo. However, access to this demo is exclusively tied to the purchase of “Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name.” This strategy offers a glimpse into the vast world of “Infinite Wealth” and serves as a teaser for the extensive journey that awaits players.
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