A little disconnected, the plot feels like a lot of different parts that never quite come together cohesively. Have felt this with other Yakuza games but it feels like more of a thing here as it juggles so much. Still really liked it though! It may be in parts but those parts are really good and it's probably got some of my favourite characters in video games. The game-ification of mundane stuff like getting a job is really fun and fits the series really well, along with making it feel approachable despite all the mad Yakuza stuff.

Speaking of which I never see people mention this as a reboot even though it sort of is? Partially because it isn't really advertised as one and is continuing the series after only a few years but also because it plays into the themes and tone people expect of the games while giving it a completely new identity! When this series was being noticed more I remember the consistent selling point of "oho, its got these wacky side quests but is a real drama!" And I think playing into a goofy style that goes alongside the drama accentuates this, without dumbing it down. It also downplays the focus on riches of the older games, those are actively designed around how you're supposed to be tough and wealthy in the big city which isn't as relatable or cool with everyone being poor and hating rich people. So here you start out with nothing, search for money under vending machines you PEASANT

I need to stop writing these while doing stuff, I was waiting for a bus and now it's arrived but idk if any of this makes sense aaaaaaa