Hugely ambitious game that builds upon the foundations set by Yakuza 4 to reach some impressive heights in both gameplay and narrative only hampered by massive bloat.
+ five large parts that are distinct enough to prevent exhaustion (different playable characters + locations) and ultimately converge in a rewarding manner
+ brilliant change of pace near the middle with an unprecedented gameplay switch
+ remarkable characterization for the established cast along with several extremely efficient new characters
+ strong story centered around the main theme of dreams
+ huge amount of side content featuring well-crafted, new mini games
+ welcome glow-up in graphics and cinematography
+/- divisive OST with some excellent vocal songs but unfitting background tracks
- disappointing treatment of a fan-favorite character
- relatively underwhelming second part
- slow pacing exacerbated by low movement speed and ubiquitously dragged-on dialogue