Just when you thought Yakuza minigames couldn’t get any more creative, Yakuza: Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth introduces Dondoko Island, a captivating new addition that sets a fresh standard for the series.
Unveiled during the Xbox Partner Preview on October 25, Dondoko Island whisks the protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, away to a remote island paradise – perched on the back of a dolphin, no less. Here, Kasuga can construct and nurture a personal haven for himself and his companions. It’s evident that Dondoko Island draws inspiration from Animal Crossing: New Horizons, offering players the opportunity to engage in activities like fishing, bug catching, crafting furniture, and socializing with the island’s residents.
Kasuga is not just a visitor on this island; he can build his own home, arranging the furniture he’s either crafted or purchased from the island’s store. While it may seem like a tranquil getaway, the trailer reveals that adversaries can disrupt the peace. In a surprising twist, Kasuga defends his island paradise with a baseball bat, deviating from the main game’s turn-based combat.
Dondoko Island stands out as a significant addition to the Yakuza series’ repertoire of iconic minigames. While past entries featured smaller-scale activities like bowling, batting cages, and chicken races, a few minigames have expanded into more immersive experiences in recent entries.
Yakuza 0 featured a captivating cabaret club and real estate management with extensive storylines. Yakuza: Like a Dragon added engaging experiences like kart racing. Yakuza 5 even led Taiga Saejima on a snowy mountain bear-hunting adventure, an unexpected but unforgettable escapade.
The prospects of Dondoko Island have fans excited for the release of Yakuza: Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth on January 26, 2024. The blend of high-stakes crime narratives and laid-back island life is a unique combination that promises an enthralling gaming experience, where players can escape to a paradisiacal retreat while exploring the world of Yakuza.
