Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is set to launch a free demo for Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii today, available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via Steam. The demo will be ready for download starting at 7am Pacific / 10am Eastern / 3pm UK, as announced by the studio on X/Twitter. While the full game is slated for release on February 21 across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and S, and PC, the demo will not be available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
Although RGG Studio hasn't confirmed whether progress from the demo will transfer to the full game, it seems unlikely given the demo's structure. The demo allows players to jump directly into specific freeroam and battle areas, bypassing the natural progression of the story. Players can explore parts of Honolulu and Madlantis, locations not accessible at the start of the full game.
The demo also offers the chance to switch between the Mad Dog and Sea Dog fighting styles, engage in battles with formidable bounty enemies, participate in four ship and deck battles at the Pirates' Coliseum, experiment with new customization options, and enjoy side activities such as karaoke with a choice of three songs.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a spin-off sequel to Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, marking it as the eighth mainline entry in the Yakuza / Like a Dragon series (or ninth if including Yakuza 0). The game follows Goro Majima, who wakes up with amnesia and embarks on a pirate adventure across Hawaii.
A trailer showcased during the October Xbox Partner Showcase provided a first glimpse at ship combat reminiscent of Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag and featured the return of Taiga Saejima, hinting at deeper connections to the main series than initially anticipated.
The game's story is expected to take around 15 to 18 hours to complete, making it longer than the previous Yakuza spin-off, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name. Fans can also unlock a special feature allowing Majima to dress up as the iconic series protagonist Kiryu Kazuma, but this is exclusive to those who sign up for email notifications or join the Sega reward system.
