Unlike the previous main installments of the series, the game steps away from beat 'em up mechanics in favor of turn-based RPG combat. Yakuza: Like a Dragon introduces a new protagonist Ichiban Kasuga, who comes is released out of prison after an 18-year sentence. These encounters and games help Kiryu win experience.

The player can also travel across the cities and participate in different activities/minigames/events such as the handling of host clubs, fighting tournaments, arcades, karaoke bars, pocket circuit racing, taxing driving, fishing, baseball tournaments and many, many more, some exclusive to each title. Across his fights, Kiryu gains experience which can be used to expand his stats and become a stronger fighter and help him take down the several bosses of the game, who provide several different fighting styles and tactics Kiryu needs to adapt to to win, alongside quick reflexes for many Quicktime Event (QTE) sections.

Winning some of these battles can result in the player winning money which can be used to purchase equipment or healing items. In fights the player character uses hand-to-hand combat and can also wield weapons can also be wielded, though firearms are rare. The ensuing fight is called Encounter Battle. Kiryu is the sole playable character in the first three entries in the series and randomly encounters foes on his path. Players assume the role of Kazuma Kiryu and others, with the story mixing both dark elements of the Yakuza underworld and more light-hearted affairs as the game introduces a diverse cast of characters and sidequests. The games are set primarily in Kamurocho, Japan’s red light district.

Yakuza 0 fight music