The Yakuza/Like a Dragon series, while expanding its appeal to younger and female players, remains committed to its core identity: middle-aged men engaging in relatable middle-aged activities.
Maintaining the "Middle-Aged Dude" Vibe
The series, led by the charming Ichiban Kasuga, has garnered a diverse fanbase. However, director Ryosuke Horii affirmed in an interview with AUTOMATON that the franchise will retain its focus on the experiences of middle-aged men. He stated that catering to new demographics by altering core themes would compromise the series' authenticity, citing examples like conversations about uric acid levels as integral to the narrative. Horii and lead planner Hirotaka Chiba believe the series' originality stems from this relatable portrayal of middle-aged life, emphasizing the genuine "humanity" reflected in the characters' struggles. They argue this relatability is key to the game's immersive quality.
Series creator Toshihiro Nagoshi, in a 2016 Famitsu interview (reported by Siliconera), expressed surprise at the increase in female players (approximately 20%) but maintained that the Yakuza series was fundamentally designed for a male audience and would avoid significant alterations to cater to a broader demographic.
Concerns Regarding Female Representation
Despite its male-oriented marketing, the series has faced criticism for its portrayal of women. Many feel the series frequently employs sexist tropes, relegating female characters to supporting roles or objectifying them. Online discussions highlight the limited number of female party members and the prevalence of suggestive or sexual comments made by male characters toward female characters. The recurring "damsel-in-distress" trope, seen in characters like Makoto (Yakuza 0), Yuri (Kiwami), and Lilly (Yakuza 4), further fuels this criticism. Chiba, in a lighthearted yet telling comment, acknowledged the tendency for female-centric conversations to be overtaken by male characters, suggesting this dynamic might persist.
Progress and Future Outlook
While the series has made progress in incorporating more progressive elements, it occasionally falls back on outdated sexist tropes. Despite these inconsistencies, newer installments represent a step forward. Game8's 92/100 review of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth lauded it as a successful blend of fan service and forward-looking design.
