⭐️ 8.25/10 ⭐️

Reader if you think you can jump into these games without playing Yakuza, I'd reconsider. While this game does a great job at giving you quick overviews of who everyone is, it's still insanely confusing (note: this didn't effect my rating as it's my fault). I imagine people who have the complete backstory of Yakuza and all the characters would enjoy this game much more, I regret not spending the time.

Pros
✧ The side games were COMPLETE, they weren't half assed by any means nor repetitive. They felt like complete games within this game and, honestly, that's incredible. I found myself wanting to play the Animal Crossing island more than the actual game at times, lmao.
✧ The world design is insane, I was shocked to walk into a sushi restaurant or convenience store and find that the entire place was designed uniquely from the other similar places. This game really sets a standard for what effort looks like.
✧ The classes were challenging to unlock and rewarding to play, I loved finding synergies between them.
✧ A vibrant engaging story! Despite not having the backstory of Yakuza or some of the characters, the story as a whole made sense.
✧ Ichiban is the quintessential JRPG "good guy" but it never gets tired. I've played too many JRPG's where the main character's positivity can get EXHAUSTING but the writing for Ichiban balances accountability, positivity, and emotion without it ever feeling annoying
✧ Enemy power spikes felt appropriate, I never felt overpowered and was actually matched with the enemies by the end of the story when I thought I'd be over leveled. I also never felt like I needed to grind, the progression all feels natural

Cons
✧ Some of the story made me say "really...." like running up stairs toward the enemy when tear gas is thrown at the team downstairs when there's a door right next to them to leave.... (not a huge spoiler but adding a tag anyway)
✧ Weapon upgrading felt a little lackluster, it was pretty expensive in money and items to upgrade items (not craft) so I largely didn't do it. I don't think it's really necessary past level 10 unless you want to full clear the game.
✧ Some characters are introduced a little late to the party, I had a hard time wanting to use them or level them up.
✧ Small gripe: why can we not wave to people on the street while riding the scooter!