Summary
- New Game Plus for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will be added for free after launch.
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth's New Game Plus mode was exclusively tied to the two most expensive editions of the game, upsetting many fans.
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, the developer behind the Yakuza franchise, has announced that the New Game Plus mode for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will be available for free post-launch. This upcoming title, set in Hawaii, follows the adventures of Goro Majima as he embarks on a pirate journey following the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, released in 2024.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, despite being one of the year's top RPGs and receiving nominations at The Game Awards, faced backlash due to its New Game Plus mode being exclusive to the game's pricier editions. This decision was not reversed by RGG Studio despite the fan outcry. However, the studio seems to have taken this feedback into account for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, opting to offer New Game Plus for free to all players.
During the recent Like a Dragon Direct, RGG Studio showcased a 13-minute video highlighting features such as naval ship combat and crew-building in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. The studio also revealed the game's various editions, confirming that New Game Plus would be added in a future update at no additional cost. However, the exact timing for this update was not specified.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii's New Game Plus Mode Will Be Free
Deluxe and special editions of games often come with exclusive cosmetic items, but locking essential gameplay modes behind paywalls can be a point of contention among gamers. RGG Studio's decision to make New Game Plus free for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii reflects a positive response to the criticism faced with Infinite Wealth. While some fans might be disappointed about the delay in accessing New Game Plus, the wait should be manageable, especially given the length of Like a Dragon games. Many players may complete their first playthrough by the time the mode is available.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is set to release on February 21. As the launch date approaches, fans can expect more details and updates from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio through their social media channels.
