Sometimes you can play a sequel game before its predecessor without missing out on much, but is that the case for Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth? Here’s what you can expect if you haven’t already played Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
Can You Play Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Before Playing Yakuza: Like a Dragon?
It’s possible to play Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth before playing Yakuza: Like a Dragon, since a lot of characters and plot points in Honolulu, Hawaii are new to Infinite Wealth. However, much of the game’s opening really only makes sense if you’re familiar with the characters and plot of Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Some major plot twists of Yakuza: Like a Dragon are spoiled at the beginning of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, too, since they’re relevant to the inciting incidents.
Narrative is integral to the Yakuza/Like a Dragon series. Sometimes even substories and minigames in Honolulu continue from those in Yakuza: Like a Dragon, and may even reference some older Yakuza games. In these cases, it’s hardly necessary to have played the older games, but they’re fun references for anyone who has.
In other words, if you’re not as invested in the story, it’s fine to play Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth before Yakuza: Like a Dragon, but players who are interested in story continuity, which is very important to the series overall, will absolutely want to play Yakuza: Like a Dragon first. Another point to consider is that the gameplay in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is much more refined compared to Yakuza: Like a Dragon. If you happen to play Infinite Wealth first, then want to go back and experience the prequel’s story, you’ll notice the gameplay is a lot simpler.
Are There Any Gameplay Related Bonuses for Playing Yakuza: Like a Dragon Before Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth?
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth doesn’t check for Yakuza: Like a Dragon save data on your system, so there are no gameplay related bonuses for playing the prequel first. The benefit of playing Yakuza: Like a Dragon first comes in the form of emotional investment from better understanding the characters and what they experienced in the prequel.
Whether this is your first Yakuza/Like a Dragon game or you’re a seasoned series fan, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of (in-game) cash on hand as you traverse Honolulu. Check out our guide on the best ways to earn money in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth so you’ll never be left wanting.
