Unlock the Hidden Charm of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth’s Substories

The Wacky World of Like a Dragon: A Personal Discovery

I have to admit, I’ve always been curious about the Yakuza series, but never had the chance to dive in. That was until I stumbled upon Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and a chance to play it for the first time. As I delved into the game, I experienced a Substory that left me both entertained and touched.

"Let It Snow" – A Tale of Emotion and Absurdity

The first few chapters of the game were enjoyable, but it wasn’t until Chapter 4 that I stumbled upon something special. As I approached a shaved-ice shop in Hawaii, I discovered Substory 24: Let It Snow. This bizarre yet captivating tale began with a peculiar encounter between Ichiban, the protagonist, and a man named Orlando. The latter was buying shaved ice (or a snow cone) at the shop, but with a twist – he asked for no toppings and then threw the treat into the air, only for it to melt instantly. Ichiban watched in confusion, thinking it was just a strange occurrence.

A Desperate Plea for Help

However, I soon learned that this strange man, Orlando, was on a mission to fulfill his late wife Ellie’s dying wish. He wanted to see it snow one last time, just like they did on their honeymoon in Japan. This man’s heart-wrenching plea for help grabbed me, and I was invested in his story. Ichiban agrees to assist, and we part ways for now.

The Unlikely Heroes of Daycare

Later, I found myself chasing a stroller down an escalator, only to discover a grown man in a diaper staring back at me. This was none other than Susumu Gondawara, a familiar name from previous games in the series. His group of diaper-clad underlings appears, and a fight ensues. But, as we soon learn, their "baby play" is about to take an unexpected turn.

Snow Made of Diaper Absorbent? Yes, You Read That Right!

The group decides to mix the absorbent diaper material with shaved ice, creating a makeshift "snow" that doesn’t melt. They throw it off the rooftop of the hotel where Orlando and Ellie are staying, and the couple is overjoyed to see the snowfall. In a heartwarming moment, Ellie asks Orlando to smile one last time before she falls asleep, and he obliges, his eyes welling with tears.

A story of Human Connection and the Power of Snow

This, my first introduction to the Like a Dragon series, has left me sold. I was initially taken aback by the sheer absurdity of these events, but as the story unfolded, I found myself invested in the characters and their struggles. The game’s ability to balance whimsy with poignancy is a testament to its writing. As Ichiban, Gondawara, and Orlando work together to create a special moment for Orlando’s ailing wife, I was struck by the beauty of human connection.

The Wacky World of Like a Dragon: A Newfound Appreciation

This was just my first taste of the Like a Dragon series, and I’m eager to explore more. Thanks to Substory 24: Let It Snow, I’ve discovered a world of emotion, humor, and heart, and I’m excited to see what other adventures await.