Summary
- Release Year: 2014
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Sport
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4
- Developers: Ryū Ga Gotoku Studios
- Publishers: Sega
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin!: A Samurai’s Journey in the Bakumatsu
Introduction
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! (Like a Dragon: Ishin!) is a spin-off game in the Yakuza series, developed and published by Sega. It was released in Japan in 2014 for the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4, and worldwide in 2018 for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Windows. The game is set in the chaotic Bakumatsu period of Japanese history, and follows the story of Sakamoto Ryoma, a real-life samurai who played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration.
Setting and Story
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is set in Kyoto during the Bakumatsu period, a time of great political and social upheaval in Japan. The country is on the brink of a civil war, with the forces of the shogunate and the anti-shogunate rebels clashing for control.
The player takes on the role of Sakamoto Ryoma, a young samurai from the Tosa藩 (domain). Ryoma is a skilled swordsman and a strong believer in justice. He becomes embroiled in the conflict between the shogunate and the rebels, and must fight to protect his friends and family while also trying to find his place in the rapidly changing world.
Gameplay
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is an action-adventure game with a strong focus on melee combat. The player can use a variety of swords, spears, and other weapons to fight enemies. The game also features a number of different fighting styles, which can be customized to suit the player’s preferences.
In addition to combat, the game also features a number of other activities, such as gambling, fishing, and karaoke. The player can also explore the city of Kyoto, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and other businesses.
Characters
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! features a large cast of characters, both historical and fictional. The main protagonist is Sakamoto Ryoma, a real-life samurai who played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration. Other historical figures who appear in the game include Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of Japan, and Saigo Takamori, a leading figure in the Satsuma Rebellion.
In addition to the historical characters, the game also features a number of fictional characters, such as Okita Soji, a captain in the Shinsengumi, and Hijikata Toshizo, the vice-commander of the Shinsengumi.
Themes
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! explores a number of different themes, including honor, loyalty, and the meaning of justice. The game also examines the changing nature of Japan during the Bakumatsu period, as the country transitioned from a feudal society to a modern nation-state.
Reception
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! was met with critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and exciting combat. The game was also praised for its accurate depiction of the Bakumatsu period.
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game was also nominated for a number of awards, including Game of the Year at the Japan Game Awards.
Legacy
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is considered to be one of the best games in the Yakuza series. The game’s success has led to the development of a number of other spin-off games in the series, including Yakuza: Dead Souls and Judgment.
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! has also had a significant impact on Japanese popular culture. The game’s characters and story have been referenced in a number of other works of fiction, including anime, manga, and live-action films.
Conclusion
Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game that offers a unique and immersive experience. The game’s engaging story, well-developed characters, and exciting combat make it a must-play for fans of the Yakuza series and historical action games alike.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
