Summary
For those searching for upcoming Japanese video gamesto invest their time into, early November needs to be on the radar. Since so manygames are coming out in 2023, it can be easy to lose track of quality titles. This is especially true after October saw the release of several long-anticipated games likeMarvel’sSpider-Man 2,Alan Wake 2,andSuper Mario Bros. Wonder.
Regardless,fans of well-made Japanese gamesshould be excited to hear that November 9 offers a lot for them. Following the launch date, it wouldn’t be surprising ifLike a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His NameandTales of Arise’s Beyond the Dawn DLC became the headliners for Japanese gaming this month. Of course, while these two titles may not bear the same immediate recognition thatSpider-Mandoes, both franchises have seen an impressive amount of success over the years.
November 9 Will See the Return of Two Well-Known Franchises
Like a Dragon Gaiden Continues the Franchise’s Recent Growth
The early titles in theLike a Dragonseries were originally only popular in Japan, but the release ofYakuza: Like a Dragonin 2020gained so much traction in the West that it led to an explosion of international popularity. It’s clear thatLike a Dragongames have been highly influential in the growing admiration for Japanese media around the globe. Remarkably, the commercial success of the 2020 title ushered in a fresh era of players while also expanding on the foundations of the previous games.
The unique setting and portrayal of Japanese culture in theLike a Dragonseries are unparalleled. It focuses heavily on the nature of traditional Japanese crime syndicates while maintaining a diverse roster of characters. As such, for those who enjoy riveting storylines, distinct visuals, and smooth fighting mechanics, theLike a Dragongames are a must.
Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Nameis a direct spin-offof the franchise that’s being targeted for a November 9 release date. Excitingly, previews forLike a Dragon Gaidenappear to be enthusiastic about the game taking place four years after the events ofYakuza 6. Investigating a kidnapping as Kiryu while trying to protect the people he loves should make for a harrowing adventure. Additionally, even though new elements such as varying fighting styles between the Agent and the Yakuza are going to be introduced, the 2023 title has been heralded as a faithful love-letter letter to the older games.
Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name
WHERE TO PLAY
ERASE YOUR PAST TO PROTECT YOUR FUTURE: Once a legendary yakuza, Kazuma Kiryu faked his own death and abandoned his name for the sake of protecting his family. Now, he is thrust into conflict by a mysterious figure attempting to drive him out of hiding. Under the codename “Joryu,” Kiryu embarks on a gripping action narrative with bone-shattering combat in vibrant locations filled with exciting characters and activities.ULTIMATE COMBAT WITH TWO HIGH-IMPACT FIGHTING STYLES: Dynamically switch between the Yakuza and Agent fighting styles in visceral melee combat. With the Yakuza style, strike fear into enemies by unleashing wildly aggressive moves powered by Kiryu’s unparalleled strength and flair. Or up the ante with the Agent style by delivering blows with absolute speed and precision, while using an array of high-tech gadgets like electrified bind wires to stun enemies then send them flying. Strategically adapt to the situation and leverage both styles to dominate and destroy hordes of enemies.ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENTWhether you’re brawling in the secret Battle arena, singing a new karaoke song, enjoying a drink at the live-action cabaret club, or racing in the pocket circuit, the world offers a variety of immersive experiences. An intriguing informant named Akame also provides thrilling sub-missions, drawing you into an epic showdown that unfolds the more you explore and enjoy Sotenbori and Yokohama.
Tales of Arise Returns in the Beyond the Dawn DLC
Alternatively, for those enjoy a more vibrant or fantatical aesthetic,the story within theTales of AriseBeyond the Dawn DLCcould be perfect.Tales of Ariseis a standalone title from previous games in theTalesseries which means newcomers can jump into the JRPG without an issue. To further this point, Bandai Namco stated that when the game was originally released in 2021, it was meant to be a departure from the conventions of the other games while still having an emotional storyline.
The DLC forTales of Ariseis expected to come with 20 hours of additional content pertaining to Nazamil, a mystifying silver-haired girl attempting to evade “the curse of the mask.” At the moment it’s known that Nazamil is a citizen of Dahna and the daughter of an unknown Renan Lord, but other than this, and the fact that it take s place a year after the main game, a good portion of the storyline has yet to be revealed. However, true to the heart of otherTalesgames, the Beyond the Dawn DLC will almost certainly be influenced by Japanese mythos.
