Judgment

🔥 What is Judgment

Judgment is an action-adventure game developed by Ryu ga Gotoku Studio, set in the fictional district of Kamurocho, Tokyo. Released in 2019, it follows the story of Takayuki Yagami, a disgraced defense attorney turned private investigator who runs a detective agency in the heart of Kamurocho. The game serves as a perfect entry point for newcomers to the Yakuza series universe, allowing players to experience the rich world without needing knowledge of previous games.

The narrative begins with Yagami being hired by his former law firm to investigate a murder case involving a yakuza boss. What starts as a straightforward investigation quickly evolves into a complex web of conspiracy as Yagami uncovers connections to a serial killer targeting yakuza members. The story is filled with unexpected twists, compelling character arcs, and dramatic revelations that keep players engaged throughout the 35+ hour journey.

👉 Features of Judgment

Combat System

Judgment features a dynamic combat system reminiscent of the Yakuza series but with unique elements tailored to Yagami’s character. Unlike the traditional yakuza protagonist, Yagami employs an acrobatic fighting style that allows him to vault off objects and enemies, creating fluid combat sequences. Players can perform wall jumps, leapfrog over enemies, and execute spectacular finishers like clamping an enemy’s neck between Yagami’s ankles.

The game introduces the EX-Gauge (similar to the Heat system in Yakuza), which enables powerful special attacks called EX-Moves. Combat encounters are made more tense by the addition of police intervention if fights last too long, and the introduction of mortal wounds that permanently reduce Yagami’s health bar until treated with expensive medical kits.

Detective Gameplay

As a private investigator, Yagami employs various detective techniques throughout the game:

• Tailing suspects through the streets of Kamurocho
• Questioning witnesses and presenting evidence
• Investigating crime scenes for clues
• Using a drone for surveillance
• Taking discreet photographs
• Lock picking
• Chase sequences to apprehend fleeing suspects

While these detective mechanics add variety to gameplay, they vary in execution quality. Some players may find the tailing missions tedious and the questioning segments too linear, as there’s no fail state during interrogations.

Open World Activities

Kamurocho is densely packed with activities and side content. Players can:

• Play classic Sega arcade games
• Participate in drone racing competitions
• Engage in mini-games like darts, mahjong, and batting cages
• Build relationships with the city’s residents through side quests
• Eat at various restaurants to gain experience points
• Participate in the “Quickstarter” app to fund products

The game creates a strong sense of community as Yagami’s reputation grows by helping citizens, with NPCs recognizing him on the street and occasionally assisting during combat.

Pros and Cons

✔️ Pros

• Engaging mystery-drama storyline with compelling twists and turns
• Fluid, acrobatic combat system that builds upon the Yakuza formula
• Dense, living world that feels genuinely populated and reactive
• Streamlined character progression system that eliminates grinding
• Excellent side content that builds meaningful connections to the city
• Strong performances and character development

❌ Cons

• Detective mechanics often feel underdeveloped or superficial
• Tailing missions are tedious and overused throughout the game
• Chase sequences become repetitive with little variation
• Limited player agency in investigations despite the detective premise
• Clunky movement system can frustrate during precision-required segments

Judgment successfully blends the familiar Yakuza formula with fresh detective elements, creating an experience that stands on its own while remaining accessible to newcomers. Despite some mechanical shortcomings in its detective gameplay, the compelling narrative, satisfying combat, and vibrant world make it a worthwhile adventure through the streets of Kamurocho.