In the heart of Manila, the gaming community recently gathered for the Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth press event on January 18.

The event aimed to showcase why Like a Dragon 8 will be one of 2024’s best games. At the center of the event was Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth’s Chief Producer, Hiroyuki Sakamoto, who has a rich history with the series and has been with Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio since Yakuza 1.

Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth characters and cast

Sakamoto took center stage to offer a sneak peek into the much-anticipated Infinite Wealth. Attendees were treated to a firsthand look at the game’s lighthearted take on the JRPG genre. He also focuses on the highly anticipated Dondoko Island — a feature that promises to challenge players’ creativity in unprecedented ways.

The event also saw the participation of famous cosplayers and streamers such as Myrtle Sarrosa, Gloco, and Een Mercado, showcasing their expertise in the Like a Dragon universe. 

How the Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth press event proved the game is going to be a hit

Like a Dragon Invinite Wealth press event at The Island, BGC
Credit: Nigel Zalamea/ONE Esports

The immersive setting at The Island in BGC during the Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth press event exceeded expectations, capturing the in-game essence with remarkable accuracy.

Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth: Release date, price, platforms, characters, trailer

After playing Like a Dragon Gaiden The Man Who Erased His Name, it made me feel like I was at the Fighter’s Lounge from The Fortress.

Breaking new ground in the series, Infinite Wealth takes players beyond the familiar streets of Japan, with protagonists Ichiban Kasuga and Kiryu Kazuma embarking on an adventure to Hawaii.

Exploring the history of the Yakuza and Like a Dragon series

Sakamoto unveiled the expansive world players will explore, introducing a novel mode of transportation – Ichiban navigating the streets of Honolulu on an electric Segway.

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Sakamoto’s demonstration extended to the game’s combat features, showcasing an intense boss battle against a Giant Shark. While the overall gameplay maintains a laid-back and comedic tone, the JRPG elements require you to make strategic choices if you want to reign supreme in Hawaii.

Like a Dragon Invinite Wealth press event at The Island, BGC
Credit: Nigel Zalamea/ONE Esports

A pivotal moment in the Infinite Wealth demo was the unveiling of Dondoko Island gameplay, reminiscent of the popular social simulation game Animal Crossing. Functioning as a sandbox, Dondoko Island allows players to exercise their creativity by customizing the island with structures ranging from buildings to toilets. The island is populated by diverse NPCs, each offering unique tasks for players to complete.

Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth Dondoko Island
Credit: SEGA

According to Sakamoto, Dondoko Island offers a vast array of activities that it could stand alone as its own game. This revelation aligns with RGG Studio’s claim that Infinite Wealth is the longest game in the Like a Dragon series.

Like a Dragon Invinite Wealth press event at The Island, BGC
Credit: Nigel Zalamea/ONE Esports

After the engaging demos, attendees were invited to try the game firsthand, leaving a lasting impression that Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth is undoubtedly a title to anticipate in 2024.

Everything you need to know about Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth pre-order edition and bonus content

Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth will be released on January 26.

Visit Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth’s official website for more information.

READ MORE: You’ll recognize these famous Hollywood actors and voice actors in Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth cast