Majima fans have been eagerly anticipating the return of the Mad Dog of Shimano as a main story character for years. After his starring role in Yakuza 0, the Majima Everywhere system in Yakuza Kiwami, and his brief but impactful appearance in Yakuza Kiwami 2, fans have likely spent countless hours capturing every moment of his presence in the games. The long wait is finally over. Ryu Ga Gotoku (RGG) Studio has unveiled a seven-minute trailer for their latest game, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, where Majima takes center stage once again, this time as the sole protagonist.
Despite RGG's frequent releases, even long-time fans might not have expected another game so soon, nor predicted Majima's return as a pirate protagonist. The trailer, released last weekend, reveals that the game is set six months after the events of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Majima wakes up on a beach with no memory of his past, only to be approached by a young boy named Noah and his pet tiger. They are on an island near Hawaii called Rich Island, where they are soon confronted by pirates. Majima then meets Noah's father, Jason, and learns about Nele Island, a dumping ground for waste and pollution linked to the yakuza.
To regain his memory and address the Nele Island issue, Majima must navigate various Hawaiian islands and a new area called Madlantis, a hideout for gang members and criminal organizations led by Queen Michelle. In classic Majima style, he takes over a pirate ship as the new captain and sets sail to unravel the mysteries. The game's premise is as absurd as any RGG title, with Majima waking up with amnesia and immediately becoming a pirate. His lifetime of odd jobs—from cabaret owner to construction manager—makes this new role seem fitting.
The trailer also hints at the return of Yakuza's beat-'em-up combat and the series' best minigame, promising an exciting game. The demo introduces two of Majima's fighting styles: his signature Mad Dog style and the new Pirate Sea Dog style. Despite being 60 years old, Majima's combat remains as over-the-top and wild as ever, with new features like jump attacks and a cloning ability. The Sea Dog style, equipped with cutlasses, a flintlock pistol, and a wire hook, offers a sillier yet engaging combat experience.
RGG games are known for their rich side content, and Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is no exception. The demo includes a visit to the karaoke bar, featuring new songs and returning favorites like '24 Hour Cinderella.' The game also brings back Dragon Kart, with new racetracks and items. Madlantis, a neon-lit city filled with illegal gambling, adds a fantasy element to the organized crime theme. The grappling hook, introduced in Like a Dragon Gaiden, returns with new uses, allowing Majima to explore higher platforms and discover hidden treasures.
Although the preview was brief, it showcased exciting new features and the nostalgic return of Majima. Fans will appreciate the effortless fun of the combat, the abundance of side content, and the chance to see the old Mad Dog shine once again.
