Judgment: Yakuza Series Will "Always" Explore Middle-Aged Themes

The Yakuza/Like a Dragon series, while expanding its appeal to younger and female players, remains committed to its core identity: middle-aged men engaging in relatable, everyday experiences.

Like a Dragon Studio Prioritizes Authenticity Over Broad Appeal

The series, led by the charming Ichiban Kasuga, boasts a diverse fanbase. However, director Ryosuke Horii confirmed in an AUTOMATON interview that the franchise will stay true to its roots. The increase in female and younger fans is welcomed, but the developers won't alter storylines to cater to them. The series' authenticity, rooted in the everyday struggles and humor of middle-aged men, is paramount. Horii and lead planner Hirotaka Chiba believe this relatable "humanity" is key to the series' originality. The characters' problems resonate with players because they're ordinary people facing relatable situations.

A 2016 Famitsu interview with creator Toshihiro Nagoshi revealed that while the series' growing female fanbase is a positive development, Yakuza was initially targeted at male players, and the developers aim to avoid straying from their original vision.

Concerns Regarding Female Representation

Despite the series' primarily male target audience, criticism persists regarding the portrayal of women. Some fans argue that female characters are often relegated to stereotypical roles or are objectified. The limited number of significant female characters and instances of suggestive comments from male characters towards them have also been highlighted. Many female characters adhere to the "damsel-in-distress" trope, a recurring issue. While Chiba acknowledges instances where female characters' conversations are interrupted by male characters, it's presented with a sense of playful acceptance rather than a commitment to change.

While the series has shown progress, occasional lapses into outdated tropes remain. However, newer entries like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (rated 92 by Game8) demonstrate a positive trajectory, balancing fan service with a vision for the series' future.