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RBMODS REVIEWS |
Date 2006-12-28
Provider: Rbmods
Author: Michael Chiu
Editor: Amber Lupala
Yakuza Game Review for Playstation 2
Looking for an organized crime/mafia game with an Asian flare? Sega, well-known developers of games, has created such a game for the PS2 called Yakuza, which explores the mysterious world of the Japanese criminal underground. Will this game stand up to other popular games such as Scarface and GTA? Let’s find out in today’s video game review.
Official site:
Check out the official game website:
Link to the site
The Story:
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Yakuza for the PS2 follows the story of Kazuma Kiryu, who is a former “yakuza”, or member of an organized crime group, who has just been released from prison and is struggling to get his life back in order. He finds himself immediately thrown into a web of deceit that involves murder, missing money, and missing friends. Along the way, Kazuma interacts with a huge cast of characters, each of which plays a part in the intricate storyline.
I thought the storyline of Yakuza was very well-done; it almost felt like I was watching a good movie as opposed to playing a game. From what I’ve read, the representation of the Yakuza world was Kazuma’s character is very appealing, and the large amount of twists and turns makes the story interesting.
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The Gameplay:
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Along with a good story, Yakuza also offers an above-average gameplay experience. You control Kazuma in a third-person perspective mode, similar to Grand Theft Auto among others. The environment, set in the streets of Japan, is large and filled with a lot of side streets and alleys. As you reach certain points, you encounter either the trigger of a cut scene or a fight, similar to the action in many role-playing games, like Final Fantasy. Along the way, there are a number of side-quests and mini-missions that add to the playability and duration of the game, which is pretty long compared to other games.
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The combat system also is well-done, with a fun set of combinations and upgrades. As you progress through the game, you are able to enhance the character in three different areas- body, technique, and soul. Along the way, you also pick up a number of different attack combinations, though many of the fights can be won simply by button-mashing until everyone’s knocked out. However, playing the game this way would deprive you from some cool slow-motion finishes.
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The Graphics:
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The graphics in Yakuza are impressive, especially the well-drawn cut scenes. The characters and the environment are all drawn with great detail, and the fight scenes look great despite not being a true fighter game.
The Audio:
Audio in Yakuza is also good, with a wide range of voice, many of them from famous actors. The game also offers decent sound effects and music.
Conclusion:
Sega’s Yakuza for the PS2 is another example of a solid game that combines both a great story with solid gameplay. The story provides a glimpse into a world not often explored, and the combat system and side quests add to the game’s playability. While you might find yourself playing a long time to complete the game, in the end you will be thankful you made the effort and waiting for the sequel to arrive.
Pros:
+ Great story
+ Fun combat and upgrade system
+ Decent graphics and audio
Cons:
- A long game (but worth the effort)
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Related Articles:
Okami for Playstation 2
Grand Theft Auto Liberty City for Playstation 2
God of War for Playstation 2
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