Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth Pays Homage to Shenmue with Clever In-Game Reference

Sega’s critically acclaimed Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth continues to captivate longtime fans and newcomers alike, renowned for its deep storytelling and innovative turn-based combat.

Released in January 2024, the latest installment from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio in the popular Yakuza franchise, also known as Like A Dragon, has garnered widespread praise for its refined mechanics and visually stunning presentation.

Now available on major platforms including Nintendo Switch, Infinite Wealth sustains the series' tradition of rich narrative while cleverly weaving in nods to classic Sega titles. Notably, Infinite Wealth features an amusing in-game reference to the legendary Shenmue series, originally created by Yu Suzuki.

Fans of both franchises have long noted the similarities in open-world exploration and narrative-driven gameplay, fueling ongoing discussions about Shenmue’s influence on the Yakuza series.

The latest homage was highlighted by members of the Shenmue fan community, including @Shenmue_Dojo, drawing attention to a sequence where the protagonist encounters a character alluding to several iconic Shenmue moments—such as Ryo Hazuki’s enduring search for sailors, his distinctive leather jacket, and his unyielding pursuit to find a warehouse and “hitch a boat out east.” This carefully crafted moment serves as a playful tribute by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio to Yu Suzuki’s pioneering adventure, cementing Infinite Wealth’s place as both a love letter and a continuation of Sega’s storied lineage.

Gaming journalists have praised the reference for its humor and respectful acknowledgment of the company’s legacy, observing that it enriches the experience for long-time fans who recognize the intertextual nods. In their glowing review, Push Square awarded Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth a 9 out of 10, describing it as the most essential entry in the series yet.

The review notes, “There is more to see and do than ever before, the enhanced turn-based combat elevates the gameplay, and the impressive visual polish makes it the best-looking title to date.

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth stands as the franchise’s finest achievement.” The ongoing success of both the Yakuza and Shenmue series reflects Sega’s commitment to innovative storytelling and memorable world-building.

The decision by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio to include thoughtful Easter eggs demonstrates their appreciation for both their own history and the enduring community spirit of Sega fans.

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is available now for Nintendo Switch and other major platforms, inviting players to experience one of the year’s most immersive RPGs while paying homage to the classics that paved the way.

Sega Switch Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio Shenmue Ryu Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth Nintendo Switch Nintendo