"Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza Naval Combat in Hawaii Unveiled"

*Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii* brings a thrilling new twist to the *Yakuza* series by introducing naval combat, a pivotal element that enhances the gameplay experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how naval combat functions in *Pirate Yakuza*.

How Does Naval Combat in Pirate Yakuza Work?

From the outset, *Pirate Yakuza* equips players with the Goromaru, a modest pirate ship that you can later upgrade. Initially, the ship features two cannons on each side and a machine gun turret at the front. As you navigate the open seas, you'll frequently encounter enemy ships, offering you the choice to engage in battle or attempt to flee.

Given that ships move slower than characters on land, escaping can be risky, especially against stronger ships with long-range attacks. It's advisable to confront enemy ships directly and start firing at the earliest opportunity. In naval combat, players can execute three types of attacks:

Turret Gun Attacks

The turret gun, positioned at the ship's front, is ideal for mid-range engagements. It allows you to inflict damage as you close in on an enemy, preparing you to use the more potent cannons at closer range. Players can also take direct control of the turret, though this increases risk.

Left and Right Cannons

The Goromaru's cannons, triggered by L2 or R2, are its most powerful weapons. These can only be fired at close range, signaled by a lit cannon symbol for a guaranteed hit. After firing, cannons require time to reload, so maneuvering to use the opposite side's cannons is a strategic move.

RPG Missile

Switching to a deck perspective allows you to control Goro and use an RPG for long-range attacks. This maneuver is best performed from a safe distance, as your ship will halt movement. Starting battles with an RPG can give you an early advantage by weakening enemy ships.

Pirate Ship Traversal

In the wide-angle view, use the left stick to steer the Goromaru. A boost feature temporarily increases speed, useful for closing in on enemies or executing a drift by simultaneously pressing the boost and a designated button (O on PS5, B on Xbox). Drifting can help dodge cannon fire or reposition your ship for optimal cannon use.

Boarding Parties

Some naval battles in *Pirate Yakuza* feature two stages, typically during boss fights or in the Pirate Coliseum in Madlantis. These involve confronting multiple ships, with the primary objective to destroy the main ship, which has a higher health pool. Focusing your attacks on the main ship is crucial for advancing to the second stage.

Once the main ship's health is depleted, you're prompted to initiate a boarding party, shifting the combat to the *Yakuza* series' signature beat-em-up style. You'll face a larger number of crew members and a boss, often being outnumbered. To prepare, boost your crew's morale and engage in lower-level fights to strengthen your team.

In these battles, enemy captains can activate stat boosters for damage or defense, making encounters challenging. Assigning your crew with similar boosters can enhance your team's stats. The goal is to eliminate all opposing crew members before your party is defeated.

Mastering these two-stage naval battles is essential for the Pirate Coliseum and major story battles in the game's latter half. Additionally, as you explore islands and hunt for treasure, you'll frequently encounter enemy ships, underscoring the importance of understanding naval combat mechanics.

The *Yakuza* series is known for its innovative gameplay shifts, and the pirate ship mechanics in *Pirate Yakuza* offer a refreshing change, rivaling even *Sea of Thieves*. With the right crew, upgrades, and customization, the Goromaru can become the most formidable ship on the seas.

And that is naval combat in *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii*, explained.

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