Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii's New Game Plus Mode: A Free Post-Launch Addition
Following fan backlash over the exclusive New Game Plus mode in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio) has announced a different approach for its upcoming title, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. The New Game Plus mode for Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will be a free post-launch addition, available via a future patch.
Infinite Wealth, while critically acclaimed and nominated for several Game Awards, faced criticism for restricting New Game Plus access to its priciest editions. RGG Studio didn't reverse this decision, but the change of heart for Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a welcome one for fans.
The announcement came during RGG Studio's Like a Dragon Direct, a 13-minute showcase highlighting the game's naval combat and crew-building mechanics. While the release date for the New Game Plus patch remains unannounced, RGG Studio confirmed its free availability.
This decision contrasts with the common practice of including gameplay features exclusively in deluxe editions. While deluxe editions often feature cosmetic items, locking significant gameplay elements behind a paywall is a contentious practice. By offering New Game Plus for free, RGG Studio directly addresses prior criticism and demonstrates responsiveness to player feedback.
Although players must wait for the post-launch patch, the extended playtime of Like a Dragon titles suggests the wait shouldn't be excessively long. Many players will likely still be engrossed in their initial playthroughs by the time the update arrives.
With the game's release date set for February 21st, RGG Studio is expected to unveil further details in the coming weeks. Fans are encouraged to monitor the studio's social media channels for updates.
