Home News Ryu Ga Gotoku Series to Retain Focus on Mature Protagonist

Ryu Ga Gotoku Series to Retain Focus on Mature Protagonist

Author : Evelyn Update:Dec 21,2021

Ryu Ga Gotoku Series to Retain Focus on Mature Protagonist

The Like a Dragon series, a spin-off of the Yakuza franchise, continues to garner a diverse fanbase, attracting younger and female players alongside its established audience. However, the developers remain steadfast in their commitment to the series' core identity: middle-aged men engaging in activities relatable to their age group.

Despite the influx of new players, the development team, as voiced by director Ryosuke Horii and lead planner Hirotaka Chiba, clarified their intention to avoid altering the narrative to cater specifically to this demographic. They believe the series' unique appeal stems from its portrayal of relatable "middle-aged guy things," from Ichiban Kasuga's fondness for Dragon Quest to the common complaints about physical ailments. This authenticity, they argue, is key to the game's originality and connection with players.

This focus on the experiences of middle-aged men is a deliberate creative choice, echoing sentiments expressed by series creator Toshihiro Nagoshi in a 2016 interview. While acknowledging the growing number of female players (approximately 20% at the time), Nagoshi emphasized the game's initial design target and the developers' caution against straying from their intended vision in response to demographic shifts.

However, this commitment to a specific demographic has drawn criticism. Many players have expressed concerns about the series' representation of women, citing instances of sexist tropes, underrepresentation in significant roles, and the frequent objectification of female characters by their male counterparts. The limited number of female party members and the pervasive use of suggestive remarks directed at women have been highlighted as particular points of contention. While some progress has been made, the persistence of these issues remains a point of debate among fans. The developers themselves acknowledge this, with Chiba humorously commenting on scenarios where female character interactions are often sidetracked by male characters.

Despite these criticisms, the series continues to evolve. Recent entries like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth have received positive reviews, praised for their balance of appealing to existing fans while simultaneously charting a path forward for the franchise. The game's success suggests a possible path forward that balances the developers' creative vision with a more inclusive approach to character representation.

Trending Games More +
Latest Games More +
Card | 13.00M
Dive into the excitement of Big Bass Splash Win! This thrilling app delivers a captivating gaming experience from the comfort of your home. Its clean, vibrant interface creates an unforgettable atmosphere, offering a chance to win big while enjoying stunning visuals. Embark on your Big Bass Splash
Casual | 56.47M
Experience chess like never before with 3D Chess, a revolutionary app designed for players of all skill levels. Immerse yourself in a breathtaking, three-dimensional world with stunning HD graphics. Challenge the advanced AI across multiple difficulty settings, or compete against friends in head-t
Casual | 578.00M
Dive into Lyndaria – Episodes 1-2, a captivating adventure set on the enigmatic island of Lyndaria. This untouched paradise, discovered by explorer Adam Grant before his mysterious disappearance, boasts pristine landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and perpetual sunshine. His daughter, Maya, now emba
Casual | 546.00M
Take Over plunges players into a gripping world of political intrigue and strategic manipulation. This thrilling game challenges you to navigate a corrupt government's oppressive regime without detection. Mastering mind control is key; skillfully influence the town's inhabitants, leveraging their
Action | 144.03M
Prepare for the ultimate racing showdown in Monster Kart! This captivating 3D racing game boasts addictive gameplay, a robust character creation system, and hours of exhilarating competition. Navigate challenging tracks, mastering the swipe-to-steer controls to maintain balance and avoid collisions
Strategy | 40.08M
Reimagine the Napoleonic Wars in World Conquest: Europe 1812, a captivating turn-based strategy game. Command one of 56 nations and reshape history as you conquer Europe. This immersive experience lets you build and expand your territories, recruit diverse armies, and engage in intricate diplomacy
Topics More +