Japanese RPG Adopts Aging Tone

The Yakuza/Like a Dragon series, while expanding its appeal to younger and female players, remains committed to its core identity: middle-aged men experiencing middle-aged life.

A Focus on "Middle-Aged Dudes"

The series, starring the endearingly clumsy ex-yakuza Ichiban Kasuga, has cultivated a diverse fanbase. However, director Ryosuke Horii confirmed in an interview with AUTOMATON that the franchise will stay true to its roots. The team appreciates the influx of new fans, including women, but won't alter the narrative to cater to them, stating that it would compromise the series' unique charm. Horii and lead planner Hirotaka Chiba believe the series' originality stems from its relatable portrayal of middle-aged men's experiences, from Ichiban's Dragon Quest obsession to his complaints about back pain. This authenticity, they argue, fosters a strong connection with players.

Horii added that the characters' realistic struggles resonate with players, creating an immersive experience akin to listening to ordinary conversations. This sentiment echoes a 2016 Famitsu interview with series creator Toshihiro Nagoshi, who, while acknowledging the increase in female players (approximately 20% at the time), reiterated that the series' core design targets male audiences and will avoid significant alterations to appease a broader demographic.

Concerns Regarding Female Representation

Despite its primarily male-focused marketing, the series has faced criticism for its portrayal of female characters. Many feel that the games frequently rely on sexist tropes, limiting female roles to supporting characters or objectifying them. Online discussions highlight the infrequent presence of female party members and the often-suggestive or sexual comments made by male characters towards women. The recurring "damsel-in-distress" trope, seen in characters like Makoto (Yakuza 0), Yuri (Kiwami), and Lilly (Yakuza 4), further fuels this concern. Chiba's humorous comment about a conversation in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth where female characters' discussion is interrupted by male characters, suggests this dynamic might persist.

While the series shows progress in incorporating more progressive elements, occasional lapses into outdated sexism remain. Nevertheless, newer installments like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (awarded a 92 by Game8), represent a step forward, lauded as a successful blend of fan service and innovative direction for the franchise's future.