Unleashing Boundless Riches: Exploring the 'Infinite Wealth' in Like a Dragon

The latest presentation from developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio showcased a fresh glimpse of the highly anticipated title, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Serving as the next installment in the esteemed Like a Dragon series and a continuation of 2020's Yakuza: Like a Dragon, this game was initially unveiled in 2022 under the name Like a Dragon 8. However, it was reintroduced at the recent Xbox Games Showcase with the new title, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, for its release in the Western market. While this alteration in name may appear peculiar to some, the scarcity of information regarding the game's plot leaves room for speculation on what players can anticipate from this latest entry.

Staying true to the gameplay style established by its predecessor, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth will feature turn-based JRPG combat instead of the more conventional action-brawler combat seen in previous installments of the series. Furthermore, the game will boast two main protagonists: the iconic character Kazuma Kiryu and the beloved star of Yakuza: Like a Dragon, Ichiban Kasuga. The narrative will revolve around their collaboration, although the exact reasons behind their partnership remain undisclosed. Players can look forward to exploring familiar locations from the series, such as Kamurocho, Sotenbori, and Ijincho, as well as a tantalizing new setting teased in the latest trailer for Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, which bears a striking resemblance to Hawaii.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Could Have a Metaphorical and Literal Meaning

RGG Studio developers have remained tight-lipped about the intricacies of the story in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth during interviews. However, recent comments regarding the game's name change suggest that the subtitle holds great significance in relation to its narrative. The decision to introduce a new subtitle for the game's Western release stems from concerns that players who began their journey with Yakuza: Like a Dragon might become confused by a sequel titled Like a Dragon 8. In order to alleviate any potential confusion, RGG Studio aimed to give the game a title that not only stands on its own but also reflects its core themes.

Although plot details have not been explicitly confirmed, the developers of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth have expressed that the concept of infinity plays a crucial role in the game. Kiryu is portrayed as a character who carries the weight of the past, while Kasuga embodies the character who carries the burden of the future. This statement seemingly alludes to the passing of the torch from one protagonist to another, while also symbolizing the metaphorical cycle of a character's journey. As one story concludes, another begins, perpetuating an infinite loop.

In Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the plot revolves around the discovery of a money counterfeiting scheme by Kasuga and his party. This scheme, orchestrated by the Ijin Three, plays a crucial role in maintaining their power within Ijincho. The ability to print money at will not only grants them immense wealth but also symbolizes their control and influence.

Although the equipment used for counterfeiting is destroyed during the game's events, the possibility of a successor to the ring emerging remains. Given the profitability and significance of the operation for the Ijin Three, it would naturally serve as a compelling driving force for the plot of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. The series has consistently incorporated vast sums of money as a central motivation within its criminal underworld narrative. Therefore, while the subtitle may seem straightforward, it also hints at a deeper, metaphorical theme that permeates the game.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth will be released in 2024 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.