Mastering Naval Combat in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii introduces thrilling naval combat, a significant departure for the Yakuza series. This guide details the mechanics of this new fighting system.

Early game sees you commanding the Goromaru, equipped with two cannons and a turret. Open water encounters are frequent, offering the choice to engage or flee. Escape is risky due to the ship's slow speed and enemy ranged attacks. Direct confrontation is recommended.

Naval combat utilizes three attack types:

• Turret Gun Attacks: Ideal for mid-range engagements. Damage is inflicted while approaching, setting up cannon attacks. Manual turret control is possible but riskier.
• Left and Right Cannons: High-damage, close-range attacks (L2/R2). The cannon symbol illuminates when a sure-hit is possible. Maneuver to utilize both cannons effectively.
• RPG Missile: Switching to deck view (allowing Goro movement) enables long-range RPG attacks. This is advantageous for initiating battles from a distance, weakening enemies before close combat.

Ship control utilizes the left stick for movement and a boost function for speed increase or drifting (O/B button). Drifting aids in dodging cannon fire and repositioning for optimal cannon usage.

Two-stage naval battles, common in boss fights and the Pirate Coliseum, involve destroying a main ship (higher health) while ignoring smaller vessels. Once the main ship's health depletes, a boarding party sequence begins, transitioning to familiar Yakuza beat-em-up combat. You'll often be outnumbered, so crew member leveling and morale boosting are crucial. Support crew members can provide stat boosts.

Mastering two-stage naval battles is key for progression. Frequent encounters throughout the game highlight the importance of understanding these mechanics. The innovative naval combat adds a refreshing dimension to the Yakuza formula. With upgrades and crew management, the Goromaru can become a formidable force.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.