Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is thrilled to announce the release of a free demo for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, available today on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via Steam. The demo becomes available for download at 7am Pacific / 10am Eastern / 3pm UK. While the full game is set to launch on February 21 across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, the demo will only be accessible on the newer generation consoles and PC.
Although Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has not confirmed whether progress from the demo will carry over to the full game, it seems unlikely given the demo's structure. It allows players to jump into specific freeroam and battle sections that do not align with the natural progression of the game's story. Players can explore segments of Honolulu and the fantastical Madlantis, areas not accessible at the start of the full game.
The demo offers a variety of engaging activities, including the ability to switch between the Mad Dog and Sea Dog fighting styles, take on formidable bounty enemies, and participate in four intense ship and deck battles at the Pirates' Coliseum. Additionally, players can experiment with new customization options and enjoy side experiences such as karaoke, featuring a selection of three songs.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii serves as a spin-off sequel to Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, marking the eighth mainline entry in the Yakuza / Like a Dragon series (or ninth including Yakuza 0). The game follows the iconic Goro Majima, who, after waking up with amnesia, embarks on a pirate adventure across Hawaii.
A trailer showcased during the October Xbox Partner Showcase provided a first glimpse at the ship combat, reminiscent of Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, and confirmed the return of fan-favorite character Taiga Saejima, hinting at deeper connections to the main series than initially anticipated.
The narrative of Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is expected to take around 15 to 18 hours to complete, making it longer than the previous spin-off, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name. Fans eager to see Majima dressed as the series protagonist Kiryu Kazuma can do so by signing up for email notifications or participating in the Sega reward system.
