The Yakuza series, now known as Like a Dragon, has broadened its appeal, attracting younger players and women. However, the developers intend to stay true to their core concept: middle-aged men experiencing the realities of middle age.
Like a Dragon Studio Prioritizes Its Core Identity: Middle-Aged Men Doing Middle-Aged Things
The Enduring Appeal of Middle-Aged Male Experiences
The Like a Dragon series, led by the charming Ichiban Kasuga, enjoys global popularity and a diverse fanbase, including many young women. Despite this, the developers remain committed to their original vision.
In an interview with AUTOMATON, series director Ryosuke Horii stated, "We've seen a significant increase in new fans, including women, which is wonderful. However, we won't change our approach to cater to them. That would prevent us from discussing topics like uric acid levels."
Horii and lead planner Hirotaka Chiba believe the series' unique charm lies in its focus on the experiences of middle-aged men, reflecting their own lives. From Ichiban's love for Dragon Quest to his complaints about back pain, they see this relatable "humanity" as the source of the game's originality.
Horii added, "The characters are realistic, like our players, making their problems relatable. This allows players to immerse themselves and feel like they're listening to ordinary conversations."
A 2016 Famitsu interview with series creator Toshihiro Nagoshi revealed his surprise at the increasing number of female players (approximately 20% at the time), as reported by Siliconera. While acknowledging this positive trend, Nagoshi emphasized that Yakuza was initially designed for a male audience and that they would avoid altering the core experience to overly cater to female players.
Addressing Concerns About Female Representation
Despite primarily targeting male players, the series has faced criticism regarding its portrayal of women. Some fans argue that female characters are often relegated to supporting roles or are subjected to objectification.
ResetEra users have voiced concerns about the limited and sometimes stereotypical representation of women, citing instances of sexist tropes and suggestive comments from male characters. The limited number of female party members in Yakuza 7 and the frequent use of the "damsel in distress" trope are also frequently mentioned points of contention.
Chiba jokingly commented in the AUTOMATON interview that even in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, female character interactions are often interrupted by male characters, suggesting this dynamic may persist.
While the series has made progress in its approach to inclusivity, it still occasionally relies on outdated tropes. Nevertheless, newer entries represent a step forward, as evidenced by Game8's 92/100 score for Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, praising it as a successful blend of fan service and innovation. For a detailed review, please see the link below!
