Like a Dragon Gaiden pays a heartfelt homage to Kazuma Kiryu, cementing the Dragon of Dojima's legendary status as one of the greatest videogame characters of all time. As a dedicated Yakuza enthusiast, diving into Gaiden felt like a pilgrimage to the core foundations of the series, creating an ultimate celebration of Yakuza's storied history while injecting a refreshing narrative full of crazy twists.

Set against the backdrop of Yakuza: Like a Dragon, Gaiden asserts itself as a standalone entry, crafting one of the most unique tie-in gaming experiences I've encountered. The narrative weaves a deep and personal tale, skillfully drawing on elements from previous games to resonate with long-time fans while introducing new layers to the lore.

The combat system in Gaiden, utilizing the robust Dragon Engine, showcases a branching from the style seen in the Judgment series. The introduction of the addicting Agent style, reminiscent of the agile Crane style used by Takayuki Yagami, adds a layer of excitement to large group encounters. The game's emphasis on facing larger mobs of enemies highlights the developers' commitment to providing a thrilling and dynamic combat experience, encouraging players to experiment with an arsenal of gadgets and abilities.

One of the standout features of the Yakuza series has consistently been its electrifying and intense soundtrack, and Gaiden lives up to this tradition. The blend of EDM, heavy rock, and high-energy pop creates a sonic landscape that is quintessentially the soul of Ryu Ga Gotoku. Standout tracks like Hellish Octagon, Bring It On, Fleeting Dream, Like A Butterfly, and Deadly Struggle contribute to an OST that is not only memorable but also a strong contender for my personal soundtrack of the year for 2023.

Avoiding a deep dive into the story to preserve the impact for fellow Kiryu enthusiasts, I can't help but emphasize the emotional connection I felt throughout the narrative. Kiryu, a character I've cherished since my teenage years, delivers a poignant experience that culminated in a 2am emotional rollercoaster, leaving me in tears. As I eagerly await the release of Like a Dragon 8, Gaiden stands as a testament to the developers' dedication to creating a game tailored for Kiryu fans worldwide. It undeniably deserves to be hailed as the peak of the Yakuza series, offering an immersive and emotional journey that resonates long after the credits roll.