Stranger Than Heaven has been surrounded by some speculation, both from the Like a Dragon fanbase and newcomers looking to get into the franchise. One of the most important questions around this speculation was whether this new title was going to be connected to the Yakuza universe or not. Well, in today’s “Xbox Presents: A Special Look at Stranger Than Heaven” showcase, not only was the answer to that question revealed, but also more information on the game regarding its story, cast, and gameplay elements.
The showcase starts by immediately mentioning the Tojo Clan, the famous Clan from the Like a Dragon series, and confirming that Stranger Than Heaven is indeed in the same universe as the other RGG Studios franchise. Players will take the role of Makoto Daito, born to an American father and a Japanese mother, and whose story spans across five eras:
- 1915, Kokura, Fukuoka.
- 1929, Kure, Hiroshima.
- 1943, Minami, Osaka.
- 1951, Atami, Shizuoka.
- 1965, Shinjuku, Tokyo.
The cast includes music stars like Snoop Dogg and ADO, but this seems to be more than just for star power, as both the story and gameplay have strong connections to the music of each era. Musical elements seem to play a critical role in Makoto’s story, even when he fights and explores the world. Makoto can remember sounds from around the world, for example, the bark of a dog, moving trains, or the weapons enemies carry, and then use these sounds for his showbiz side.
The combat takes the fighting of other RGG games to a more realistic and gory approach. You can control both the left and right sides of Makoto with the left and right triggers of a controller, allowing you to block with one hand and punch with the other. RGG is also developing the next Virtua Fighter game, so it seems that they are taking inspiration from their other projects as well. Like the Yakuza games, Stranger Than Heaven also seems to be bringing a very active open world full of minigames and that 18+ side the series is known for.
Lastly, at the end of the showcase, it was revealed that Stranger Than Heaven will be releasing this winter, including a day-one Xbox Game Pass release. Are you excited about these announcements? What are your thoughts on this title being connected to the Like a Dragon franchise? Let us know in the comments below, and for more RGG Studios news, stay tuned to GameObserver.
