The newest mainline installment of the popular Like a Dragon series (formerly known as "Yakuza" in the West) will be titled Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth in North America and Europe, while in Japan it'll be simply titled Ryu Ga Gotoku 8 without a subtitle.
Following the reveal of the game during the Xbox Games Showcase, executive producer Masayoshi Yokohama took to Twitter to explain why the titles are so different for different markets (albeit veteran players are likely quite used to it).
Below you can read the message in its entirety.
Regarding the title for Ryu Ga Gotoku 8...
We are pleased to announce that the official title of the next Western release of Like a Dragon will be Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Meanwhile, in Japan, the official title will be Ryu Ga Gotoku 8. The reason for this change is because we determined the messages and themes of this latest game could be perceived differently by fans in Japan and Asia versus those in the West who started the franchise from Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
Additionally, we felt one subtitle simply isn't enough for Ryu Ga Gotoku 8 in Japan. Which character and which point of view in this complex, intertwined storyline do you think you'll most closely relate to? Depending on which of the past titles you have played, your answer may change! It is our hope that, once you have finished the game, you might even be enticed to provide a subtitle of your own.The Western version, on the other hand, is subtitled for fans who started their Like a Dragon experience with Kasuga Ichiban's story (Yakuza: Like a Dragon). The concept of infinity (oo) is deeply tied to the themes of the latest installment. We have had this subtitle in mind since last year's teaser trailer, in which the two main characters, Kasuga Ichiban and Kazuma Kiryu, were surrounded by the "oo" symbol.
What does Infinite Wealth mean? Is there really such a thing? We are all eagerly awaiting the day you'll be able to find out for yourself.Masayoshi Yokoyama, Director of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio/Executive Producer
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth will release for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC in early 2024. Recently, the publisher announced the winner of the Grand Prix of its audition, YouTuber and Vtuber Kson. As a result, she will play a role in the game.
Before we get to play Infinite Wealth, another adventure awaits with Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, which is coming on November 9 for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC. The game will explain what happened to traditional hero Kazuma Kiryu between Yakuza 6: The Song of Life and Infinite Wealth.
Later tonight there will be a livestream hosted by Sega in which we'll likely hear more about both games. Of course, you can expect a full report here on TechRaptor as soon as it airs.
