The gaming industry has shown a knack for releasing games at the perfect time, such as the launch of Animal Crossing: New Horizons in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, another game that seems to hit home is Like a Dragon: Unlimited Treasures. As I embarked on the adventure of the new Yakuza game, I anticipated a fresh narrative featuring the resilient protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga. Little did I know that the game’s developers would touch on a sensitive issue of the gaming industry: layoffs.
At the start of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Ichiban reveals his newfound stability as he secures a job at Hello Works, a familiar setting from the previous Yakuza game. Utilizing his position to assist former yakuza members in transitioning to civilian jobs, Ichiban sees this as a form of retribution for his deceased father and former Yakuza boss. As the storyline unfolds, Ichiban unexpectedly finds himself in a situation parallel to my own experience of being laid off from my job at Kotaku. Struggling to cope with the sudden loss, I found solace in the game’s depiction of mass layoffs in the gaming industry, reflecting the harsh reality faced by many individuals.
Unlike my abrupt dismissal, Ichiban is given the opportunity to bid farewell to his colleagues, mirroring the emotional weight of change in the face of uncertain futures. Despite putting on a brave front, he ultimately succumbs to the overwhelming burden of starting anew. This resonated with me, as I too grappled with the challenges of job hunting and financial insecurity.
The game further delves into Ichiban’s transition to a Freelancer role, highlighting the financial struggles and societal pressures he faces to sustain himself and his team. This mirrors the real-world implications of job loss and the subsequent hunt for alternative means of income. Through the game’s narrative, it draws attention to the plight of individuals navigating uncertain employment prospects.
Ultimately, the storyline of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth serves as a poignant reflection of the struggles faced by those affected by layoffs across various industries. It’s a timely portrayal that captures the resilience and hope amid adversity, offering a source of inspiration for those navigating similar challenges.
