Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth's Dondoko Island: A Minigame's Unexpected Expansion Through Asset Reuse
The lead designer of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth shed light on the surprising evolution of Dondoko Island, a minigame that far surpassed its initial conception.
In a recent interview with Automaton, Michiko Hatoyama revealed that Dondoko Island's scope expanded organically during development. Initially envisioned as a smaller feature, the minigame blossomed into a much larger undertaking. This growth was fueled, in part, by a significant increase in available furniture recipes.
The key to this rapid expansion? Clever asset reuse. RGG Studio leveraged its extensive library of assets from the Yakuza series, repurposing and adapting existing models to create new furniture pieces. Hatoyama stated that individual furniture items were created "in a matter of minutes," a stark contrast to the days or even months typically required for new asset creation. This efficient approach allowed for the rapid integration of a vast array of furniture into Dondoko Island.
The decision to expand Dondoko Island and its furniture options stemmed from a desire to enhance player enjoyment. The expansive island and numerous furniture recipes provide players with considerable freedom and creative control, transforming the initial "garbage dump" into a personalized paradise.
Released on January 25, 2024, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (the ninth mainline entry in the Yakuza series) has been well-received. The game's success, and the wealth of existing assets, positions RGG Studio well for future projects. Dondoko Island stands as a testament to the studio's efficient asset management and its commitment to providing players with engaging, expansive minigames.
