One of the best things about ichiban is how he's 42 and didn't get to live half his life free. He's an example of how it's never too late to do something great.
@@MariusBoss11458 start slowly my guy. Jump rope, start walking little by little and don't compare yourself to Instagram celebrities. Be patient as hard work is a gradual process, not overnight. Everyone's genetics are different, you'll figure out what works for you in due time. "You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you." Psalm 128:2 Take up a martial art, maybe jiu jitsu, muay thai, boxing. God bless, PBUY and I pray your journey goes well friend.
@@Man.of.Tomorrow Thanks buddy. You know. I keep looking at my uhh. "Triceps brachii" 💪 And I wonder what it'll be like without the meat. It feels strong.
It's so much true, especially during this year I found Ichiban the one who saved me from all the bad stuff life gave us. I really admire him now and forever, I want him to be welcomed today and and every day after!
Ichiban has to be one of the most positive characters in history. And its not even in an unrealistic manner. You see him smile a lot but he does have other emotions. He can feel sad, angry or conflicted. The fact the mothertrucker spent 18 years in a cell and came out with a smile is just... wow. Ichiban takes the "my friends are my strength" thing and makes it believable. We need people like ichi.
You can really see it at the end, too. All the anger and sadness he has finally overflows and he ends up crying his heart out when he realizes he might lose what little family he has left, even if that family was terrible to him
Yep. When I discovered it I was shocked as to how unknown this series was. Luckily it has been getting more and more attention over the course of the last year, but it still doesn't get nearly as much praise as it deserves (at least outside of the fandom).
@@Dreamfillah kiryu did that all the time. the difference is that kiryu put it all on himself to fix the problem. Ichiban relies on his friends along the way.
@@silverwolfe3636 I love that it’s shown in their clothes too since kiryu wears a white suit with a red dress shirt while ichiban wears a red suit with a white dress shirt which I feel reflects that they are somewhat opposites in their personality but still retain the same love for their friends and family
@@bongosmcdongos4190 We know, my brother. We know. Unfortunately, there's no DLC, no post-credit story about what's happening to that fu- I mean, "little weasel". But if the game let us did something about it, that little weasel can expect to get his face done in by..."things". Spiky baseball bat included.
What I respect about Ichiban is how much he perseveres no matter what life throws at him and still keeps his head up. To quote Daisuku Kuze "The man who gets beat down isn't the loser. The guy who can't tough it out to the end, he's the one who loses".
Man, I wish Kiryu would pass down the exact quote of Kuze's in Yakuza 8, like he teaches the new dragon the words that carried him said by his "mentor"
@@omrizubary his actual nicknames the "Dragon of rock bottom" you know? He's not even a dragon, he's a dragonfish. However like he said, his tattoo shines brighter than a dragon
Ngl, Ichiban is literally my role model in life now. I know it sounds silly but his selflessness, ability to look on the brightside, kindness, friendly-ness, perseverance and always trusting of others despite all the BS he's gone through is very admirable. It really makes me want to strive to be like him even though I know I will never 100% be there.
If you played the game and think about it, his personality is opposite of Kiryu's as well. Personally I believe Ichiban's personality is between Kiryu and Nishiki, fills in the gap and perfectly balanced.
"Kasuga's tattoo covers most of his back and ends just above his thighs. It depicts a koi dragon (龍魚, ryūgyo), the in-between state of the koi in the legend of the koi, and the dragon. It represents the strength and perseverance of the koi as it struggles upstream, but also a greater destiny that lies ahead, as the koi has not fully finished its transformation into a dragon."
Interesting explanation. I always thought it was just a reference to Kiryu and Nishiki's tattoos from the first Yakuza, but this theory sounds about right.
@@virgilthemob1242 well it is and it isnt, its the same story. kiryu was warned part way through 1 that nishiki, the koi, was working is way up the stream and if he reaches the top(become a dragon) kiryu would find him difficult to stop.
@@megababe3000 The way that arc played out, I thought a lot about what kind of future Nishiki saw ahead of him when he got the koi tattoo to begin with (pre-0). Did he and Kiryu get theirs at the same time? Was Kiryu's dragon his goal even back then? Did he even think it was possible to be his equal? It's been six damn games since 1 and I'm still hung up on those two tbh.
I specifically avoided this video just in case of spoilers, but got hooked on the official music video. Came back here for the translation after beating it and God it hits so much harder.
Ichiban is an amazing protagonist because his story carries a simple but powerful message- it's never too late to start putting your life back together.
Game easily deserved rpg of the year but instead we got stuck with the lazy remake FF7 getting the title lol not even a finished game yet beat Yakuza 7
Kiryu is handsome and cute. Ichiban is cute ( not to say yagami isn't but he's mostly handsome) Yagami is handsome ( not to say ichiban isn't but he's mostly cute) You get it? Both of them are a split of kiryu Ichiban representing kiryu's wholesome goofy self Yagami representing kiryu's badass goofy self You can also that ichiban and yagami are the "actual" twin dragons
I'm crying. I love Ichiban so much and I didn't think I'd love him this much, so quickly. His character is so likeable and relatable with everything he does. I cannot wait to see what will be next for him
@@Iiveichibanreaction in super yes but he grew progressively with the series, he was around 20-30 for most of dbz. With ichiban he was around 20 for only one chapter and a kid in flashbacks
Personally, I love it. we need more adult protagonists like Kiryu, Yagami and Ichiban. I dont know why but I'm getting into more office comedy/ romance like Wotakoi as well.
I always thought older shonen protagonists work beautifully. I'd go as far to say a lot of shogen stuff would be improved if the protagonist was aged up.
I absolutely love Icbiban’s character. He’s the kind of guy who’s gone through terrible things and has had a terrible life, but tries his best to make the present his own and absolutely rocks living, treating every hardship with vigour and enthusiasm no matter how bad. He takes control of his life and tries to live it as best as he can. He controls his destiny fearlessly. He’s the kind of character you’d see defy fate in a story. Characters like Ichiban are amazing, and I love him
I agree, and the fact that I'm around the same age as him made his love of life, his heart, his unabashed dorkiness, and especially his willingness to take chances and start over no matter how hard he got knocked down really hit me when I was playing.
@@rameztwal8424 this is the latest yakuza so you have to play till 6 fiest and play judgment too and it's sequel is coming on 24th Sept judgment is very good same creators of yakuza try it too
When you find yourself at rock bottom, the only way forward is up. There's no shame in being at the bottom. All that matters is how you crawl your way back up. There's always a ray of hope up there.
i love how Yakuza 7 is like a mixture of anime setting (spiky hair hero, gathers friends in order to save the world) he rises his magical abbilities, learn his friends backstories etc. All with superb magical battles! Except all of this is set in world of politics, struggling with economic crisis, people searching for comfort in joining manipulative groups, politicians pulling uncomfortable laws, Two settings that normally shouldn't work together, worked perfectly xD
The best part is the magical battles are all in Ichiban's head. He's a huge Dragon Quest fan so he imagines the fighting as a turn-based system like DQ.
@@fumomofumosarum5893 yeah but this is cool cause it adapts that type of story to a more modern world with realistic shit that we deal with from day to day
Ichiban is one of the most inspirational, heartwarming characters in videogame history. A middle aged dork who aspires to be a hero, I think that speaks to most of us gamers.
I don't know how they nailed so perfectly with Ichiban's character. This whole video is such a great proof of his character progression and I hope we get to see more of him soon. I already miss him and his team.
Actually, I could see that being used as the backdrop for the 8th game, dealing with the fallout of such an event in Japan and how people over there, good, bad, and between, deal with it.
At first, his character design didn't much impress me. I thought he would be cocky. Gosh I was WRONG. After watching all cutscenes, I truly love his character and his positive altitude
Yakuza completely changed my life and views on everything god im grateful for discovering this series it just isn't a game itself, but how life really is with the goofiness, seriousness, sadness, and manliness nothing beats yakuza
I honest to god love rgg's protagonist, despite the hand they're dealt with in life, all of them have shown the willingness to help and care for the person next to them regardless of the trouble they're in. I wish more people would write characters like that instead of one dimensional protagonists who can't be bothered to look at the people down on their luck
Kiryu, of Dojima, the Dragon, his Wrath and Strength unstoppable, yet ever Noble and Majestic, now Sleeping. Nishiki, the Carp, ever in Perseverance and Determination, always near and chasing after, swam upstream to cross the Dragon Gate, in bid to be a new Dragon, only to fall from grace, in Redemption. Ichiban, DragonKoi, a new uprising, from the Yellow River toward the Heaven, Herald of new Era, long awaited. Majima, the Dog, to his Friend ever Loyal, to his Lover a thankless Protector, to his Rival longlasting Competitor, and to his Enemies rabid Mad.
I wrote this with their overarching theme in mind,not tattoo specifically. Its highlighted in zero that kiryu become The dragon of Dojima after defeating xxx boss of dojima henchman with an un-inked dragon tattoo .although he initially cearly dont give a fish about it,eventually lives up to the title. In kiwami 1 before the confrontation with xxxxiki kiryu got his tattoo re inked to strengthen his resolve before the fight. In kiwami 2 the confrontation highlighted that the sky cannot accomodate 2 dragons. Nishiki theme fits the lore as well, while he is close to kiryu, he is always overshadowed and as the cruel fate would have it,put him against his bestfriend. The carp wish to be the new dragon. Ichiban i dont have much to go on with apart from the trailer and character design since i havent play the new Y7 hence the small description.but it fits.a new character.new game.filling the absence of kiryu as new protag. Majima tattoo is an Oni or Hannya, that punish evil while being evil themselves.which doesnt fit his theme much.understandble that while he is a big character,he was never meant to be a MC or main villain either in the original yakuza but due to fan's favorite, pick up a much deserved gametime and character development. And zero somewhat explained his character development and action in the subsequent yakuza games, which is much fitting the title mad dog of shimano. Sometimes his nice,but there no telling when he will bite. Hope that clear everything up.
Just finished Like A Dragon and forgive me for sounding ignorant as this is my first entry into the Yakuza series but this is the greatest story I've ever experienced in a video game. I'm going to start the older Yakuza games soon but holy hell am I eager to see what is next for Ichiban!
If you read this, this game is a MAJOR DEPARTURE from the other games in the Yakuza franchise. This is a JRPG. And the rest of the games are open world brawler/beat-em-up games.
Ive recently played Y7 and met Ichiban Kasuga. All my life Ive felt like a disposable piece of equipment, someone abandonded by everyone and loved by no one due to how I am. I began hiding myself away, trying to act in rash and reclusive manners, hurting those who do love me... And then I met Ichiban Kasuga. I met him and his story spoke to me from such a deep personal level its a bit silly to think about. He made me see a version of myself I need to be, strive for and become. The version of myself I was hiding for many years and hurt others because of it... Then Ichiban kicked the door down, gave his pinky for me and showed me the path I must take. I celebrate you, Ichiban Kasuga, rock bottom dragon. For showing me who im meant to be, and be that version of myself with a smile. I'll never forget you, or this game. Take flight, for whom we celebrate, WELCOME ICHIBAN!
This comment made me tear up a bit to be honest. Because I feel the same thing. Ichiban instantly became a role model to me and I wished that he was real. But nevertheless he made me become a better version of myself everyday
I'm glad to see us moving past Kiryu as a protagonist but I am just not sure about this Ichiban guy. He looks like a dork that is trying too hard to be cool. *Watches this video* I haven't known Ichiban for long but if something happens to this lovable oaf then I will bomb the millennium tower and then myself.
well I believe that is the point though, him being seen as a disposable loser that is long forgotten by his so called "family" he was a part of for years.
Real talk, I have never experienced a character as likable as Ichiban in anything. I've watched a lot of movies, played a lot of games, read a lot of books, and I haven't found anyone as effortlessly likable as him. Ichiban is the kinda guy you always want to have your back in a fight, but he's also the person to help you get over life shit and relax. Just an incredibly solid dude all around even with his faults. It's impossible to hate him.
Kiryu was better in my opinion but i definitely see ichiban as a worthy successor..... and i also hope there will be some spin off yakuza games where kiryu is playable again.
@@Mrvanleeuwen I mean it's obvious everyone's going to prefer Kiryu, that's the problem with most series that are long-running and switch to a new protagonist usually, the switch back by the next game. Kiryu has the benefit of being in 7 games, Ichiban doesn't, at least not yet. From Everything I've seen of ichiban, he's going to be one that I really want to play as for good long while in the franchise's future.
Damn it always gets me at the "Live a wonderful life" where Ichiban has had such a shitty life but he's still strong enough to comfort Saeko at her time of need. Or when he forgave Nanba in the game.
Been listening to this daily since my dad had a stroke on 10/06/2022. I moved back home 3 weeks before. Replaying Yakuza 7 while he was in the hospital helped. Even after he died. Reaching for the sky, fired as hell!
Y'know, all talked-about good things aside I personally feel that THE best thing that ichiban does is that he is a childish optimist and just fucking goes at the world. Too many series focus on stuff like "oh you can't be a child anymore in this grim world" or "it's okay to keep your inner child" or at best "try your hardest to preserve your inner child!" and they almost always end on the (valuable, but boring) moral that you must reconcile your inner child with the real world. Ichiban? He just doesn't give a flying fuck and stays with one foot in fantasy land while making the whole world better. And while-again-it isn't necessarily realistic or a good moral, it's NOT a game for children and we are NOT supposed to emulate the in-game characters entirely in our lives. It trusts us that we can enjoy some actual, entirely adult wholesomeness (something I can't say I've ever enjoyed, I mean give this game to a kid and it will barely speak to them) and for THAT I believe it is worth of note and success.
I think thats just half of it. Personally what really makes him great is that, not only does he acknowledge that he is not a very smart person, he also knows when to shut the fuck up and actually listen to other people and admit he us wrong. He knows where and when to be optimistic. When he gave that speech to the homeless people about how they should "move out of their comfort zones" and find a job and strive to make a better life, Nanba promptly scold his ass for how rude, insensitive and naive he is. And guess what, Ichiban apologizes and took that to heart. Any other hot blooded anime/jrpg protagonist would stubbornly force their ideals onto others and the plot will say he is right to do so all along.
@@samazam4221 yeaaaaah that moment was awesome! It addressed a bias many people have about the homeless and beggars. Sadly to me it can't really speak because in my country street begging is literally a profession and profitable and it angers me because I can't give in good faith since I don't want to encourage the people taking money away from those that need it more (one particular example I can't forget is when I was at an atm and a beggar approached me. I gave her a coin and wemt back to taking out whatever money I had left on my card to buy a token gift for someone because that was about what I could afford and the beggar was like "ay won't you gimme one a' those?" Pointing with a fucking cheeky smile at a bill 20x the value of that coin). But I kinda disagree that he is dumb. After all he worked together with every party member to deduce bits of information. He obviously deferred to people's expertise when it came to things they would be more.knowledgeable of, but that's exactly it. Just because someone knows more than you in a field and you're surrounded by those multiple somebodies doesn't mean you are any lesser intellectually than them. I'm very knowledgeable when it comes to games and chemistry and can do pretty quick math operations in my head. With that being said, I have the social skills of a hungry honey badger, my knowledge of history and geography outside mythology is woeful and I lack the discipline and patience necessary to code, among many other skills I have or severely lack. that makes me no worse or better than a lawyer, a musician or doctor, ya feel?
I was 15 at the time of playing Y7 and I didn't see as 'some game with characters' like most games are these days. I saw Y7 and the entire yakuza series as a world with people with their own lives. It may sound edgy as me now being 16 but I think I wasn't complete without the yakuza games I know it's weird and all but Ichiban is an inspiration to me. Any time I lost a fight in Y7 I'd think of the optimism that Ichi radiates and I'd reload a save and grind for hours just beat one boss (cough cough Majima cough) I know no one might see this but if it wasn't for Ichiban and the entire yakuza cast I might have killed myself. I'm sorry if that sounds edgy.
@@courierofthemojave5235 Ay don't worry. It's not an uncommon experience, the game that filled that role for me was persona 3. I guess friendships just speak to some people at that age. Naturally, for me it taught me a precious perspective on life, just going with the flow of change. How relationships ebb, wither, are rekindled and all that. I don't think I was ever outright suicidal though. I found that living is a far better way to spite a world that made me even think about the possibility of suicide. But yes, I can understand the experience of finding a piece of media that just makes something click inside you. Don't worry, yakuza isn't (and shouldn't be) the only one to help you change closer to the person you hope to be. Actually I hope you will come to see that life itself just changes in general. Sure, you might feel a certain way but either ever so slowly or just in a flash your world can change. You can realize you've evolved beyond something that felt too big for you, you can find the rug pulled from under your feet, you can find a fire lights up in your heart...the world, the people and most importantly yourself can always surprise you. Things never stay the same, and the people who fight against it are always, whether openly or deep inside sad and broken, hoping something they lost can be regained if they just do the thing in the circumstances they know. But they are wrong, and they are pitiable. And you need to find it in yourself to grow past them. Just like everyone has their struggles, I believe everyone has it in them to help themselves past them-whether alone or by asking the right people for help. I understand your age too well. I honestly do. Try to keep in your heart who you are now so you may have the same understanding when you can try to help. And I won't lie and say it gets better, because from where you're standing I don't think you would agree if you had my experiences. I don't know if I agree with myself. But what I do know is that I have learned to look for the strength I need when challenges are too much. To take a loss, rest up and have at it again when I'm too tired. And I don't know if I can explain how to do it. But I trust that you have the ability to learn it by yourself. You're still young, and who you are is still an exciting mystery for yourself. So just relax, lean back, take a deep breath and just take things as they come; no faster or slower ok? You will become better :)
The song actually doesn't mention Ichiban by name, but instead uses its meaning "number 1" so the song works without the context of the game. Same for 2:33, while the singer says "Kasu ga Ichiban", official lyric word it as a "dregs of society taking the top", making it double-meaning/word-play on Ichiban's name.
The scene where he gets out of the shop goes for the cigarret and laughs at himself when he sees he's out of cigs, dunno why I like this scene, kinda wholesome like things never really work for him but he can still derisively laugh at himself.
It's also the opposite of a lot of Kiryu's scenes. He always has a cigarette ready when the moments are heavy. I think it's another great way of showing how different Ichi is from Kiryu
When you know the context its even better in my opinion. Not going to spoil for those who haven't played yet but its such a dorky response for the situation
@@themanofconstantsorrowelia1929 trust me mate I got it on Christmas. I actually beat it like an hour ago. What a thrill huh? That last fight is so hard if you don't poison or spam Orbital laser like a loser
The lyrics gain so much meaning when you know the guy's story, this is a man with barely any education that spent 20 years in prison and got released in his 40's. It happens, and people have reasons to consider their life ruined at that point. Ichiban managed to find his way with the help of his new friends, achieved so many feats in his first game, and will be the new protagonist of the yakuza series from now on. He's in his 40's, but his life begins now.
This song was the thing that brought me from kind of uninterested in Yakuza 7 to being hyped for it. It kind of perfectly represents Ichiban's nature compared to Kiryu and is a wonderful welcome to a new Dragon. We welcome you and hope you do lead a wonderful life, Ichiban!
@@JHenry-nz7hy lmao same. Definitely worth playing this game, Ichi has toppled kiryu and now Is my fave character. Especially the final scene with a certain young master. That got a tear rolling down my cheek
The awful life he's spent. Orphan, imprisoned, thrown into oblivion, shot and left for dead. And yet he still loved one and every of the characters that made his life dreadful. At one point I thought that if it would have been me, I would have had a massive revenge against all of them but Ichi proved me wrong. He's indeed the best.
I think Ichiban was made to celebrate us as players and noble spirits altogether. We are the kind of people who step up this generation by changing a lot of old stereotypes about how to deal with the world we are facing everyday. We usually relate everything to videogames and try our best to find happyness in between chaos and sorrow. Ichiban is like a part of us trying to finf new adventures and helping people because we had been raised by noble videogames philosophies that take us appart from anger, envy and other nasty stuffs most of grow up people are full inside nowadays. This is my fist yakuza game and even when im pretty sure they are all awesome, i think i won't be able to imagine these games without Ichiban and his pure kindness and imagination... this game is going straight forward to my top 10 favorite games of all times.
You know, I usually don’t really like songs that do nothing but talk about how awesome a new character is, as I find it to be similar to pandering, but in this instance, Ichiban absolutely earned it. He’s such an amazing character and the fact that he’s so kind and thoughtful towards everyone else makes him instantly lovable. A perfect person to head the franchise.
Ichi is proof that you can still do the "right" thing even tho he is "obligated" to follow the codes of system hes a part of (the Yakuza). He chooses conpassion and selflessness despite everyone and everthing around him tells him "thats just the way it is"
Just finished the game, so I come back to this. Man, this game just instantly leaped into Top 3 Yakuza games for me. Ichiban is great, his story is great, they made good with making a very likeable main character that, while opposite to Kiryu, has more or less the same morals of seeing the best in people. The party is great, by the mid point through the end, you feel like they're a tight knit cast and where as Kiryu excels in being a loner, Ichiban has his party members and relying on his friends to fight with him isn't a weakness. I can't wait for Yakuza 8!
With are your favorite Yakuza games? My first game was Judgment (absolutely love it, amazing game 10/10), now I finished Yakuza 7. I already did download Y0 on my ps5 and played like 30min. But Im missing the eng. Dubbing already... I must say the eng. Dubbing in Judgment and Y7 was amazing, the japanese is probably even better but its hard to watch a 30min. sometimes around 1h long cutscenes and need to read them instead of focusing on the actuall cutscene and whats happening. So Im forcing myself a little to play Y0.
Now that Yakuza 7: Like a Dragon has been out in English for a little while (and I hope all of you have gotten the chance to play it), what lyric of this song do you like/sticks with you the most? For me personally its the last line of the song: Screw it all! You may have nothing! Yet you have the bravery to go forth and lead a wonderful life! I just think its cool this song ends on such a positive note, and honestly in a year like 2020 its such a great reminder of what we all can accomplish if we are brave enough. But enough from me, I want to know what you all think about the song!
Soar Up in the Shining Future to the Day you become a Legend. Echoes a lot of what kiryu told him. He's not quite there yet but he's on the path to becoming as big of a legend as Kiryu despite not being as physically strong.
its definetly the Chorus and specifically welcome Ichiban and we accept you ichiban. considering where this track actually plays in game it resonates so hard with not only the post credits scene but the entire fanbase who came to really love Ichiban through the journey
just finished the game... now i feel empty and i miss ichiban’s story :’( this is the kind of game you wish you could forget to experience it again and again and again
Ichiban as a character just inspires the fuck out of me. Trying to do things right no matter how low in life he has to start, and inspiring the people around him to do the same, I think this is perfect for his dream of being a hero. I'm glad I played this game despite me never having finished any RPG, but how could I not with this amazing cast of characters and storyline? playing it was just 50h of fun and I feel like this song at the end of the game was the perfect celebration of that. I love ichiban and can't wait for his next adventure.
You know, this song had made me realize how much I absolutely adore Ichiban as a character. While Kiryu has been my favorite, Ichiban is beginning to test that. I enjoy the sheer amount of badassness that Kiryu has, Ichiban is just a nice guy who wants to be a hero to people. And I love that about him so much. He started from the bottom, and slowly, he is rising to the very top, and helping everyone he meets along the way. He really is a hero
I mean, Ichiban is the complete oposite of what Kiryu is. Ichiban is cheerful, smiles and always brightens the mood of those around him, he surounds himself with his friends and fights alongside them. All the while Kiryu is a silent and cold guy who doesn't smile much, he's always looked up to and his past is always chasing him, Kiryu fights alone to not endanger those who he love. But even that, i love Ichi since he's just a really good boy.
I can't wait to play as Ichiban. From what I've seen in videos, and from what I've read from people who already played the game, he's totally awesome. Yes, he isn't as strong as Kiryu, but he makes up for it with a totally amazing personality. He's the opposite of "I never smile" Kiryu. Heck, if Kiryu was unintentionally goofy, Ichiban embraces being goofy (although he's not a total clown at all). I love it. Can't wait for November.
I recently completed Yakuza 7, I’m not disappointed to say I like Ichiban a tiny bit more than Kiryu, he’s a realist while maintaining a optimistic view in life, despite the hand he’s been given in life, despite how much he’s been treated like an underdog, he always continues to push forward and keep living his own way with his friends by his side, I truly accept Ichiban as the new official protagonist
Ryo Aoki: Are you lecturing me again about how important family is? Ichiban: No! It's not a lecture! Did you ever stopped to think why Arakawa-san, Captain Sawashiro and I never gave up on you no matter how much bad shit you dragged us into? Let me tell you... It wasn't easy. But we did it anyway because we're all connected deep inside our hearts! You see things in black and white, but family is not that simple! No one appreciated you for who you are!? BULLSHIT! We were always there for you! We would've done anything for you, gone to hell and back. All you had to do was ask! When will you believe me when I say the three of us loved you? Or are you just gonna keep pointing that gun at your head like a dumbass!? Masato: Ichi... Ichiban: This is not what you want to hear. But you know... I consider you my brother, man. That means something to me. Don't make me watch my brother die. Please? I can't do it. Masato? I'm begging you.
When this song released with the Japanese version of the game I quit a job that was giving me a really hard time, this on the pandemic peak. I was home taking online lessons and I remember crying and smiling at this song believing I would live a better life. I tried staying positive just like Kasuga. Today I feel alive having a stable job I always dreamed of. NEVER stop believing in yourselves. Take Ichiban's flashy spirit with you, you will have your time! Not even in games there's a permanent game over.
It’s amazing to see this series grow as much as it has from the PS3 days where trying to get people to look at these games for more than a second was an impossible task, now it’s such a strong community of humor, thirsty fans, emotions and optimism.
Idk if I'll be a huge fan of the turn based combat of the game but I can look past game mechanics for a good story and a good set of characters. Looks like this one will have both of the latter.
NSKR DarkTalon I’m a big JRPG fan so the change is great for me. But yeah, Ichiban is a huge Dragon Quest fan so he sees his fights as a turn based battle. I love it
Honestly yakuza fights have always felt like they're turn-based. Particularly boss fights, since many of them have hyper armour so you can't really grapple them more than to quickly execute a heat action. The only thing this game really removes is the option to dodge, but since you can heal in-combat it's pretty close to the same thing.
They really delivered with Ichiban. I love his character and his companions. Kiryu was great but Ichiban strikes you in a much more sympathetic way. What a lovable dork.
God it's been months since I beat the game but I'm still sobbing over that ending and then playing this theme over the credits fucking made me wail like a toddler
You are here because: 1. The ending song was a "banger." 2. You found the song on UA-cam. 3. You read the lyrics and are getting emotional, like I am. 4. You then read the comment section AND YOU get EMOTIONAL TOO 😭
Finished the game yesterday, it ripped my heart appart. So many emotions, cannot really say a thing now. It is just simply pure perfection. The best game of 2020 by far. Nothing comes close.
@@maheeppanwar4756 and why is that? just because its not a tekken character like kiryu? in this game they are trying to showcase other kind of strenght, he is supposed to be the opposite of kiryu and fits the themes of the story, and selfish? are we playing the same videogame? he puts others in front of him so often that its comical, after all that happened to him he HAD THE RIGHT to be selfish and he didnt it was his naiveness, kindness and selflessness that attracted every member of his party, like an JRPG(?) DRAGON QUEST(?), you know the whole point of this game being called LIKE A DRAGON
I just finished the game. Ichiban has won me over, like damn. Kiryu will always have a special place in my heart, but Ichi is making a real good case too. HOLY hell that ending sequence.
I hope Ichiban stays as the main character of future Yakuza games. I like the idea of the game starting and developing Kiriyu's story to its ending and starting anew as Ichiban as the main character
At first, I didn't want to play this game because it was an rpg and kiryu wasn't the main character anymore. But playing this game made me love ichibans character. Waiting for the next game in his story
One thing I noticed after randomly translating both "Ichibanka" and "Ichiban ka" through google is that the title has a double meaning. "Ichibanka" or "一番下", the actual title Shounanno Kaze and Yasutaka Nakata used, is translated as "The bottom". I'm pretty confident on its meaning cause it's verified by Google Translate Contributors. While "Ichiban ka" or "いちばん か" is translated as "The best". It reflects Ichiban's journey from literally the bottom of society, to "The Best", or at least the best person he can become.
The actual title (as shown with the music video and on their website) is "一番歌" which means "The Ichiban Song," since the song is of course about Ichiban XD
I watch this vid like three times a week minimum cuz it really has Ichibans best highs and lows so I don’t have to replay the entire game to get the best parts again haha great work
![[UA] Eternal Fire проти NAVI | EPL Season 20 Malta](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/chvlsDygrZM/mqdefault.jpg)
thanks for 420 likes!!!
edit: Thanks for 4200 likes!!!!
Finish the Tanimura mod bakayaro
Wow, it is metman98uk! I am a very big fan of your work, and look forwards to host Tanimura mod!
@@au-198 soon™ if you keep asking I'm gonna volley your nan down the stairs at mach 3 like the dustbag she is, aho.
Ok, but when haruka c- 2?
Edit: thanks for 1 (one) likes guyzzz love y'all XOXOX
Edit [2]: 2 (two) ((one + one)) likes
@@metman98uk you wanna get banned from the server ahotare? Cause that might happen kono kisan ga
One of the best things about ichiban is how he's 42 and didn't get to live half his life free. He's an example of how it's never too late to do something great.
He looks early 30's too.
@@MariusBoss11458 keeping in shape keeps you looking you younger, as well as his enthusiastic mindset :)
@@Man.of.Tomorrow I gotta be careful man. 15 and people think I'm an adult. Gotta drop this weight and Hit da Gym.
@@MariusBoss11458 start slowly my guy. Jump rope, start walking little by little and don't compare yourself to Instagram celebrities. Be patient as hard work is a gradual process, not overnight. Everyone's genetics are different, you'll figure out what works for you in due time.
"You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you." Psalm 128:2
Take up a martial art, maybe jiu jitsu, muay thai, boxing. God bless, PBUY and I pray your journey goes well friend.
@@Man.of.Tomorrow Thanks buddy. You know. I keep looking at my uhh. "Triceps brachii" 💪 And I wonder what it'll be like without the meat. It feels strong.
Ichiban is a character I honestly wish was a real person
Everybody needs a Ichiban Kasuga in their life.
Someone who brightens the mood even when you feel down. Even if people have wronged him, he looks past that and see the good in them.
I loved Ichi he's the video game embodiement of myself our birthdays are also close together lol.
It's so much true, especially during this year I found Ichiban the one who saved me from all the bad stuff life gave us. I really admire him now and forever, I want him to be welcomed today and and every day after!
The holy trinity of adoptive bros:
The father - Uncle Iroh
The son - Ichiban
The holy spirit - Speedwagon
yeah I honestly I think he's relatable character
The real reason why Ichiban isn't a dragon yet is that he's busy taking his friends with him to the top of the waterfall
He is not a dragon because he is just like a dragon.
Ichiban has to be one of the most positive characters in history. And its not even in an unrealistic manner. You see him smile a lot but he does have other emotions. He can feel sad, angry or conflicted. The fact the mothertrucker spent 18 years in a cell and came out with a smile is just... wow. Ichiban takes the "my friends are my strength" thing and makes it believable. We need people like ichi.
Sora would be proud
Legit man….if ichiban was a real person he’d be my best friend. The kudos to his voice actor made it so true to life and honest
Ichi best boy
You can really see it at the end, too. All the anger and sadness he has finally overflows and he ends up crying his heart out when he realizes he might lose what little family he has left, even if that family was terrible to him
one of the best characters ever
Discovering yakuza was one of the best things I've done
Same here. I will forever cherish this series.
Me too
Same , sniff sniff noises
you said it!
Yep. When I discovered it I was shocked as to how unknown this series was. Luckily it has been getting more and more attention over the course of the last year, but it still doesn't get nearly as much praise as it deserves (at least outside of the fandom).
Kiryu's Story: What it is to be a man.
Ichi's Story: What it is to be a friend.
A man looks out for his friends and family and does the right thing.
@@Dreamfillah kiryu did that all the time.
the difference is that kiryu put it all on himself to fix the problem. Ichiban relies on his friends along the way.
I think that Ichi and Masato/Aoki are just Kiryu and Nishiki's personality types flipped. 7 really mirrored 1 in a lot of ways and I quite enjoyed it.
@@silverwolfe3636 true Ichiban as Kiryu 2.0 and Aoki/Masato as Nishiki 3.0 (Nishiki 2.0 was Mine)
@@silverwolfe3636 I love that it’s shown in their clothes too since kiryu wears a white suit with a red dress shirt while ichiban wears a red suit with a white dress shirt which I feel reflects that they are somewhat opposites in their personality but still retain the same love for their friends and family
*_"You're my BROTHER, man."_*
Instant tears.
I cried ugly manly tears. Im going to brutalize THAT little weasel each time I can in my next run.
You know which one
@@bongosmcdongos4190 We know, my brother. We know.
Unfortunately, there's no DLC, no post-credit story about what's happening to that fu- I mean, "little weasel".
But if the game let us did something about it, that little weasel can expect to get his face done in by..."things".
Spiky baseball bat included.
@@nickypenn5841 seriously when I saw the little fucker appear i knew it was already to late
"Don't make me watch my brother die"
*UGLY SOBBING INTENSIFIES*
*"No one ever appreciated you for who you are?! BULLSHIT!"*
Middle aged schizophrenic with no job, friends, or family.
Instantly the most relatable videogame character in existence.
in the end he was just happy schizophrenic with like 10 jobs at the same time with buttloads of friends that turned family
Totally me in the future
Don’t forget he’s a gamer, too!
@@masterofbloopersLife is a Dragon Quest adventure.
He's a schizo? When doʻes it say that?
@@Gun_Metal_Grey You're gonna make it bro, good luck!
I love how this song isn't just about ichiban's journey, but it's welcoming him into the whole yakuza franchise
It's so wholesome
If only everyone was welcoming to Ichiban. He dug right into my heart
@@mokaza40 everyone who give a chance to play or watch the entire game love him tho.... Take me for example
Welcome ichiban cant wait for your story to go on i like you so much :)
@@culturedgentleman752 i love this game. Side quest and all. Ichiban is a true bro!
What I respect about Ichiban is how much he perseveres no matter what life throws at him and still keeps his head up. To quote Daisuku Kuze "The man who gets beat down isn't the loser. The guy who can't tough it out to the end, he's the one who loses".
In a way, Ichiban inheriting the pure essence of the old-school Yakuza spirit without the toxicity and violence associated with it.
@@Dreamfillah truly fitting for the next to uphold the yakuza mantle
I got so much respect for Kuze that I can easily replace him with Kume during the infamous punch scene.
Man, I wish Kiryu would pass down the exact quote of Kuze's in Yakuza 8, like he teaches the new dragon the words that carried him said by his "mentor"
After finishing the game, lyrics strikes comepletely different. We're truly welcoming you, Ichiban, Fish Dragon of Rock Bottom, Savior of Yokohama.
Just finished it now and it got me in tears. listening to this song does not help stop the tears.
In a fucked up way, this song is probably the meaning behind his "kyoudai's" parting words.
@@WadeWilsonKPop oh don't you dare make me sob again
nvm just teared up a bit
You know chapter 5? You know how it's called?...The DRAGON of Yokohama
@@omrizubary his actual nicknames the "Dragon of rock bottom" you know? He's not even a dragon, he's a dragonfish. However like he said, his tattoo shines brighter than a dragon
Ngl, Ichiban is literally my role model in life now. I know it sounds silly but his selflessness, ability to look on the brightside, kindness, friendly-ness, perseverance and always trusting of others despite all the BS he's gone through is very admirable. It really makes me want to strive to be like him even though I know I will never 100% be there.
Not silly bro!
,,Go forth and lead a wonderful life"
This hits diferent now
"Keep living, Ichi."
@@ghosthuntermike2592 "Live long and stay happy, for both of us."
I just finished this game yesterday and man , this makes me cry...
Just realized his outfit is an inverse of kiryu’s color wise
Fat Albert I wonder if anyone’s gonna make fun of it like kiryu
omg ur right i never noticed it i more tought it was similar to nishiki because nishiki had a red one in yakuza 0
@@rancersweirdness Ichiban has the voice actor as Nishiki im pretty sure
@@MeatyThigh yeah I heard about that too
If you played the game and think about it, his personality is opposite of Kiryu's as well. Personally I believe Ichiban's personality is between Kiryu and Nishiki, fills in the gap and perfectly balanced.
"Kasuga's tattoo covers most of his back and ends just above his thighs. It depicts a koi dragon (龍魚, ryūgyo), the in-between state of the koi in the legend of the koi, and the dragon. It represents the strength and perseverance of the koi as it struggles upstream, but also a greater destiny that lies ahead, as the koi has not fully finished its transformation into a dragon."
Interesting explanation. I always thought it was just a reference to Kiryu and Nishiki's tattoos from the first Yakuza, but this theory sounds about right.
@@virgilthemob1242 this is from the Yakuza Wiki
@@virgilthemob1242 actually ichi has the same va as Nishiki
@@virgilthemob1242 well it is and it isnt, its the same story. kiryu was warned part way through 1 that nishiki, the koi, was working is way up the stream and if he reaches the top(become a dragon) kiryu would find him difficult to stop.
@@megababe3000 The way that arc played out, I thought a lot about what kind of future Nishiki saw ahead of him when he got the koi tattoo to begin with (pre-0). Did he and Kiryu get theirs at the same time? Was Kiryu's dragon his goal even back then? Did he even think it was possible to be his equal?
It's been six damn games since 1 and I'm still hung up on those two tbh.
Before yakuza 7: Man this rocks
After yakuza 7: Why can't stop my tears
"ah fuck so that's what they meant"
The end damn the feels
Also the game has banger songs
Waka!!! That scene then plays this song on the credits is just heavy.
I specifically avoided this video just in case of spoilers, but got hooked on the official music video. Came back here for the translation after beating it and God it hits so much harder.
masato's fucking last words man
Ichiban is an amazing protagonist because his story carries a simple but powerful message- it's never too late to start putting your life back together.
Just finished the game, what a masterpiece
Totally agree. I'm in love with this game. The game of the year for me
@@Lenesita this and Hades for sure
Game easily deserved rpg of the year but instead we got stuck with the lazy remake FF7 getting the title lol not even a finished game yet beat Yakuza 7
@@disregard7275 To be fair the FF7 remake was still a good game just not a 10/10
Yep 200 hours says it was well worth the trip and I wanted to stay a wile
“The one nobody wants”
Excuse me sir or madam, I’ll take him
Ichiban is kinda cute 😳
NeoArmstrongCycloneJetArmstrongCannon justaway
“””kinda”””
Kiryu is handsome and cute.
Ichiban is cute ( not to say yagami isn't but he's mostly handsome)
Yagami is handsome ( not to say ichiban isn't but he's mostly cute)
You get it?
Both of them are a split of kiryu
Ichiban representing kiryu's wholesome goofy self
Yagami representing kiryu's badass goofy self
You can also that ichiban and yagami are the "actual" twin dragons
@@authorbhattacharjee4957 Of course, only a fusion between 2 super badass men can even START to compare to Kiryu's beauty
Not long after that. * BREAKING NEWS* Some random dude defeat a whole family of mafia
I'm crying. I love Ichiban so much and I didn't think I'd love him this much, so quickly. His character is so likeable and relatable with everything he does. I cannot wait to see what will be next for him
i watched ur video and all walkthrough
I was hesitant at first but I grew to love him more then Kiryu
i knew you for yakuza games and i like all your playthrough!!! what surprise finding you here!! the love for yakuza characters make united people jaja
I watched your gameplay !!! Was awesome thank you!
あなたの実況好きでした
A perfect character to carry the yakuza series after the legend kiryu himself
Kiryu can finally step down and give the mantle to ichiban.
I am going to miss having Kiryu as the main character, but we have Ichiban. The perfect man to fill the mantle, we welcome you Ichiban!
I'll just pretend that Ichiban is Nishiki reincarnated.
@@angelusvastator1297 hope he dosent turn into nishiki
@@mwplayer3778 he's Nishiki: the good ending.
@@angelusvastator1297 Nishikiyama was disgusting man. Don't compare him to Ichi
Who knew a 42 year old shonen protagonist would be this great
goku is also 41 lmao
@@Iiveichibanreaction in super yes but he grew progressively with the series, he was around 20-30 for most of dbz. With ichiban he was around 20 for only one chapter and a kid in flashbacks
Personally, I love it. we need more adult protagonists like Kiryu, Yagami and Ichiban. I dont know why but I'm getting into more office comedy/ romance like Wotakoi as well.
I always thought older shonen protagonists work beautifully. I'd go as far to say a lot of shogen stuff would be improved if the protagonist was aged up.
I absolutely love Icbiban’s character. He’s the kind of guy who’s gone through terrible things and has had a terrible life, but tries his best to make the present his own and absolutely rocks living, treating every hardship with vigour and enthusiasm no matter how bad. He takes control of his life and tries to live it as best as he can. He controls his destiny fearlessly. He’s the kind of character you’d see defy fate in a story. Characters like Ichiban are amazing, and I love him
I agree, and the fact that I'm around the same age as him made his love of life, his heart, his unabashed dorkiness, and especially his willingness to take chances and start over no matter how hard he got knocked down really hit me when I was playing.
He's such a loveable shonen protagonist. Protect him and his squad at all costs.
I mean let’s face it, he’s basically following the example of the jrpg characters he loves.
I wish he was real :(
I just finished the main story and Ichiban has cemented himself as one of my favorite protagonists. Truly ichiban
I haven't played since Yakuza 2 and this game is fucking amazing.
i just found this series, still on yakuza 0. when does ichiban show up?
@@rameztwal8424 this is yakuza 7
The best indeed
@@rameztwal8424 this is the latest yakuza so you have to play till 6 fiest and play judgment too and it's sequel is coming on 24th Sept judgment is very good same creators of yakuza try it too
When you find yourself at rock bottom, the only way forward is up. There's no shame in being at the bottom. All that matters is how you crawl your way back up. There's always a ray of hope up there.
My hats off to Ichiban, the shoes he has to fill are huge.
But the reception to his character seems to go above and beyond.
i love how Yakuza 7 is like a mixture of anime setting (spiky hair hero, gathers friends in order to save the world) he rises his magical abbilities, learn his friends backstories etc. All with superb magical battles!
Except all of this is set in world of politics, struggling with economic crisis, people searching for comfort in joining manipulative groups, politicians pulling uncomfortable laws,
Two settings that normally shouldn't work together, worked perfectly xD
The best part is the magical battles are all in Ichiban's head. He's a huge Dragon Quest fan so he imagines the fighting as a turn-based system like DQ.
tbh i have played many old fantasy JRPGs with the same plot - just in medieval times ^^
which is not bad, just saying..
@@gaminggoddess85 yeah I wonder if it's in kiryu prespective, just fucking tiger drop them all
@@fumomofumosarum5893 yeah but this is cool cause it adapts that type of story to a more modern world with realistic shit that we deal with from day to day
Agreed
Ichiban is one of the most inspirational, heartwarming characters in videogame history. A middle aged dork who aspires to be a hero, I think that speaks to most of us gamers.
To be fair... he didn't really change during those 18 years, he's 42 but acts more like 24.
@@girloninternet1188Doesn't change the fact that he's 42. Some people figure themselves out early, and remain true to that their whole lives.
I don't know how they nailed so perfectly with Ichiban's character. This whole video is such a great proof of his character progression and I hope we get to see more of him soon. I already miss him and his team.
Me too. I love all the characters....Saeko, Adachi, Namba, Zhao, Joon, Eri.....I love them too much
you guys shut the fuck up
stop making me crying bruh :''
Keep Ichi's positivity in your heart and hold your head high for 8 in 2024 now
ITS ALMOST HEREEEEEEE
Yakuza 8: ichiban sits around in quarantine
All he does is play Final Fantasy games
@@ThatWeirdGuyFromWork I would play that honestly
@@neoarmstrongcyclonejetarms6680 same
Actually, I could see that being used as the backdrop for the 8th game, dealing with the fallout of such an event in Japan and how people over there, good, bad, and between, deal with it.
@@manuelalbertoromero9528 Hell maybe a new faction took advantage of the chaos to build themselves up
At first, his character design didn't much impress me. I thought he would be cocky. Gosh I was WRONG. After watching all cutscenes, I truly love his character and his positive altitude
That’s a fantastic way to describe it. He’s definitely got a sprinkling of shonen protagonist but he’s just so much more than that.
I didn't playe the dub, so I can't comment on the acting in it. But his Japanese VA absolutely KILLS it.
@@Taractis his english VA is awesome too
He has such a shit eating grin in all of the promo material, but he’s just a big loveable character with a childlike spirit.
@@Taractis absolutely. I was crying during that scene. A LOT.
Yakuza completely changed my life and views on everything god im grateful for discovering this series it just isn't a game itself, but how life really is with the goofiness, seriousness, sadness, and manliness nothing beats yakuza
I honest to god love rgg's protagonist, despite the hand they're dealt with in life, all of them have shown the willingness to help and care for the person next to them regardless of the trouble they're in. I wish more people would write characters like that instead of one dimensional protagonists who can't be bothered to look at the people down on their luck
Kiryu, of Dojima, the Dragon, his Wrath and Strength unstoppable, yet ever Noble and Majestic, now Sleeping.
Nishiki, the Carp, ever in Perseverance and Determination, always near and chasing after, swam upstream to cross the Dragon Gate, in bid to be a new Dragon, only to fall from grace, in Redemption.
Ichiban, DragonKoi, a new uprising, from the Yellow River toward the Heaven, Herald of new Era, long awaited.
Majima, the Dog, to his Friend ever Loyal, to his Lover a thankless Protector, to his Rival longlasting Competitor, and to his Enemies rabid Mad.
Fuck man, that's rad
Majima tattoo is Demon not dog
Majima's title is "Mad Dog Of Shimano".
The proper term is Haniya, which is Majimas tattoo
I wrote this with their overarching theme in mind,not tattoo specifically.
Its highlighted in zero that kiryu become The dragon of Dojima after defeating xxx boss of dojima henchman with an un-inked dragon tattoo .although he initially cearly dont give a fish about it,eventually lives up to the title.
In kiwami 1 before the confrontation with xxxxiki kiryu got his tattoo re inked to strengthen his resolve before the fight.
In kiwami 2 the confrontation highlighted that the sky cannot accomodate 2 dragons.
Nishiki theme fits the lore as well, while he is close to kiryu, he is always overshadowed and as the cruel fate would have it,put him against his bestfriend. The carp wish to be the new dragon.
Ichiban i dont have much to go on with apart from the trailer and character design since i havent play the new Y7 hence the small description.but it fits.a new character.new game.filling the absence of kiryu as new protag.
Majima tattoo is an Oni or Hannya, that punish evil while being evil themselves.which doesnt fit his theme much.understandble that while he is a big character,he was never meant to be a MC or main villain either in the original yakuza but due to fan's favorite, pick up a much deserved gametime and character development. And zero somewhat explained his character development and action in the subsequent yakuza games, which is much fitting the title mad dog of shimano. Sometimes his nice,but there no telling when he will bite.
Hope that clear everything up.
Just finished Like A Dragon and forgive me for sounding ignorant as this is my first entry into the Yakuza series but this is the greatest story I've ever experienced in a video game. I'm going to start the older Yakuza games soon but holy hell am I eager to see what is next for Ichiban!
If you read this, this game is a MAJOR DEPARTURE from the other games in the Yakuza franchise. This is a JRPG. And the rest of the games are open world brawler/beat-em-up games.
Ya should play the previous games too. Trust me they are good too
Like a dragon is definitely a great game to start with, wonderful cast, fun combat, and a great story overall
Yakuza 0. Best fucking game story almost ever in my opinion
@@Hiroakiarai88 wise words, traitor
Ive recently played Y7 and met Ichiban Kasuga.
All my life Ive felt like a disposable piece of equipment, someone abandonded by everyone and loved by no one due to how I am.
I began hiding myself away, trying to act in rash and reclusive manners, hurting those who do love me... And then I met Ichiban Kasuga. I met him and his story spoke to me from such a deep personal level its a bit silly to think about.
He made me see a version of myself I need to be, strive for and become. The version of myself I was hiding for many years and hurt others because of it... Then Ichiban kicked the door down, gave his pinky for me and showed me the path I must take.
I celebrate you, Ichiban Kasuga, rock bottom dragon. For showing me who im meant to be, and be that version of myself with a smile.
I'll never forget you, or this game.
Take flight, for whom we celebrate,
WELCOME ICHIBAN!
I also hope to take some of what I learned and apply it to my life. Good luck brother we’ll all make it
hell yeah here's to rising from rock bottom!!
This comment made me tear up a bit to be honest. Because I feel the same thing. Ichiban instantly became a role model to me and I wished that he was real. But nevertheless he made me become a better version of myself everyday
@@shinoharuv2519Ichiban is real. Don't you see? He's already all of us, all of us rock bottom dragons... He was always real and with us.
I'm glad to see us moving past Kiryu as a protagonist but I am just not sure about this Ichiban guy. He looks like a dork that is trying too hard to be cool.
*Watches this video*
I haven't known Ichiban for long but if something happens to this lovable oaf then I will bomb the millennium tower and then myself.
well I believe that is the point though, him being seen as a disposable loser that is long forgotten by his so called "family" he was a part of for years.
You just summed up around 90% of the fans who were skeptical about Ichi at first.
its fucking normal for the millenium tower to explode,explode serena,at least you'll get to meet kiryu
Aw man, I lost it at the Millennium Tower remark hahahaha
He’s an amazing character
Real talk, I have never experienced a character as likable as Ichiban in anything. I've watched a lot of movies, played a lot of games, read a lot of books, and I haven't found anyone as effortlessly likable as him.
Ichiban is the kinda guy you always want to have your back in a fight, but he's also the person to help you get over life shit and relax. Just an incredibly solid dude all around even with his faults. It's impossible to hate him.
anyone else just love Ichiban's facial expressions?
In general, this main cast seems to be super expressive all around.
Honestly it's refreshing not to see Kiryu's constant stoic face. And I love Kiryu. I can't really explain but Ichi just radiates wholesome energy.
It was hard to see kiryu smiling, but damn, Ichiban has a happy aura around him
He's like a puppy.
That ending just left me just sitting there in pure shock for a good 10 minutes
"Keep living, Ichi"
*UGLY SOBBING INTENSIFIES*
I ugly cried twice: the ending, and then the phone call after the night out with Arakawa.
I haven't even played the game, but God I love Ichiban Kasuga so much by the stuff I seen so far. He got it all.
Kiryu was better in my opinion but i definitely see ichiban as a worthy successor..... and i also hope there will be some spin off yakuza games where kiryu is playable again.
@@Mrvanleeuwen I mean it's obvious everyone's going to prefer Kiryu, that's the problem with most series that are long-running and switch to a new protagonist usually, the switch back by the next game. Kiryu has the benefit of being in 7 games, Ichiban doesn't, at least not yet. From Everything I've seen of ichiban, he's going to be one that I really want to play as for good long while in the franchise's future.
The G Podcast PSVR/PS4 Reviews i really hope yakuza 8 will have the old fighting system back. Instead of turn based rpg.
Riley Vl Wouldn’t mind either really. Both are really fun. Though the normal gameplay had been going for so long, it’s good to try new styles
@@alezarde211 i was getting bored of the old gameplay so changing it this game was a plus for me
Tbh when you know English lyrics this song is even better in my opinion
I agree
Tbh and opinion
Oh please
Eavy Eavy
Ichiban disapproves of your negativity
@@eavyeavy2864 what
Alright.
It has been 7 months since I've made this comment.
I've completed this game today
It's great. 10/10 goty for me
Ichiban taught me it's never to late to start over.
Damn it always gets me at the "Live a wonderful life" where Ichiban has had such a shitty life but he's still strong enough to comfort Saeko at her time of need. Or when he forgave Nanba in the game.
A shonen protagonist in a seinen manga
Been listening to this daily since my dad had a stroke on 10/06/2022. I moved back home 3 weeks before. Replaying Yakuza 7 while he was in the hospital helped. Even after he died.
Reaching for the sky, fired as hell!
I am so sorry for your loss man, it's great you are holding up and moving forward, and he would be happy to know you are doing so. :)
@@samtheboy8277 Thanks. My cat died about two weeks ago too, so…rough year
@@jlshel42 Aw man...well, when it's rock bottom, you can only really look up, right?
Y'know, all talked-about good things aside I personally feel that THE best thing that ichiban does is that he is a childish optimist and just fucking goes at the world. Too many series focus on stuff like "oh you can't be a child anymore in this grim world" or "it's okay to keep your inner child" or at best "try your hardest to preserve your inner child!" and they almost always end on the (valuable, but boring) moral that you must reconcile your inner child with the real world. Ichiban? He just doesn't give a flying fuck and stays with one foot in fantasy land while making the whole world better. And while-again-it isn't necessarily realistic or a good moral, it's NOT a game for children and we are NOT supposed to emulate the in-game characters entirely in our lives. It trusts us that we can enjoy some actual, entirely adult wholesomeness (something I can't say I've ever enjoyed, I mean give this game to a kid and it will barely speak to them) and for THAT I believe it is worth of note and success.
And he gamer 😎
I think thats just half of it. Personally what really makes him great is that, not only does he acknowledge that he is not a very smart person, he also knows when to shut the fuck up and actually listen to other people and admit he us wrong. He knows where and when to be optimistic. When he gave that speech to the homeless people about how they should "move out of their comfort zones" and find a job and strive to make a better life, Nanba promptly scold his ass for how rude, insensitive and naive he is. And guess what, Ichiban apologizes and took that to heart. Any other hot blooded anime/jrpg protagonist would stubbornly force their ideals onto others and the plot will say he is right to do so all along.
@@samazam4221 yeaaaaah that moment was awesome! It addressed a bias many people have about the homeless and beggars. Sadly to me it can't really speak because in my country street begging is literally a profession and profitable and it angers me because I can't give in good faith since I don't want to encourage the people taking money away from those that need it more (one particular example I can't forget is when I was at an atm and a beggar approached me. I gave her a coin and wemt back to taking out whatever money I had left on my card to buy a token gift for someone because that was about what I could afford and the beggar was like "ay won't you gimme one a' those?" Pointing with a fucking cheeky smile at a bill 20x the value of that coin).
But I kinda disagree that he is dumb. After all he worked together with every party member to deduce bits of information. He obviously deferred to people's expertise when it came to things they would be more.knowledgeable of, but that's exactly it. Just because someone knows more than you in a field and you're surrounded by those multiple somebodies doesn't mean you are any lesser intellectually than them. I'm very knowledgeable when it comes to games and chemistry and can do pretty quick math operations in my head. With that being said, I have the social skills of a hungry honey badger, my knowledge of history and geography outside mythology is woeful and I lack the discipline and patience necessary to code, among many other skills I have or severely lack. that makes me no worse or better than a lawyer, a musician or doctor, ya feel?
I was 15 at the time of playing Y7 and I didn't see as 'some game with characters' like most games are these days. I saw Y7 and the entire yakuza series as a world with people with their own lives. It may sound edgy as me now being 16 but I think I wasn't complete without the yakuza games I know it's weird and all but Ichiban is an inspiration to me. Any time I lost a fight in Y7 I'd think of the optimism that Ichi radiates and I'd reload a save and grind for hours just beat one boss (cough cough Majima cough) I know no one might see this but if it wasn't for Ichiban and the entire yakuza cast I might have killed myself. I'm sorry if that sounds edgy.
@@courierofthemojave5235 Ay don't worry. It's not an uncommon experience, the game that filled that role for me was persona 3. I guess friendships just speak to some people at that age. Naturally, for me it taught me a precious perspective on life, just going with the flow of change. How relationships ebb, wither, are rekindled and all that. I don't think I was ever outright suicidal though. I found that living is a far better way to spite a world that made me even think about the possibility of suicide. But yes, I can understand the experience of finding a piece of media that just makes something click inside you. Don't worry, yakuza isn't (and shouldn't be) the only one to help you change closer to the person you hope to be.
Actually I hope you will come to see that life itself just changes in general. Sure, you might feel a certain way but either ever so slowly or just in a flash your world can change. You can realize you've evolved beyond something that felt too big for you, you can find the rug pulled from under your feet, you can find a fire lights up in your heart...the world, the people and most importantly yourself can always surprise you. Things never stay the same, and the people who fight against it are always, whether openly or deep inside sad and broken, hoping something they lost can be regained if they just do the thing in the circumstances they know. But they are wrong, and they are pitiable. And you need to find it in yourself to grow past them. Just like everyone has their struggles, I believe everyone has it in them to help themselves past them-whether alone or by asking the right people for help.
I understand your age too well. I honestly do. Try to keep in your heart who you are now so you may have the same understanding when you can try to help. And I won't lie and say it gets better, because from where you're standing I don't think you would agree if you had my experiences. I don't know if I agree with myself. But what I do know is that I have learned to look for the strength I need when challenges are too much. To take a loss, rest up and have at it again when I'm too tired. And I don't know if I can explain how to do it. But I trust that you have the ability to learn it by yourself.
You're still young, and who you are is still an exciting mystery for yourself. So just relax, lean back, take a deep breath and just take things as they come; no faster or slower ok? You will become better :)
The song actually doesn't mention Ichiban by name, but instead uses its meaning "number 1" so the song works without the context of the game.
Same for 2:33, while the singer says "Kasu ga Ichiban", official lyric word it as a "dregs of society taking the top", making it double-meaning/word-play on Ichiban's name.
The unmitigated support for Ichiban in the lyrics makes me really happy
It’s amazing how they managed to make a character just as lovable as Kiryu, but who feels different
The scene where he gets out of the shop goes for the cigarret and laughs at himself when he sees he's out of cigs, dunno why I like this scene, kinda wholesome like things never really work for him but he can still derisively laugh at himself.
It's also the opposite of a lot of Kiryu's scenes. He always has a cigarette ready when the moments are heavy. I think it's another great way of showing how different Ichi is from Kiryu
When you know the context its even better in my opinion. Not going to spoil for those who haven't played yet but its such a dorky response for the situation
@@themanofconstantsorrowelia1929 I imagine everyone here has beaten the game.
@@auhs6240 yes and no. Especially with people just now getting it for the holidays
@@themanofconstantsorrowelia1929 trust me mate I got it on Christmas. I actually beat it like an hour ago. What a thrill huh? That last fight is so hard if you don't poison or spam Orbital laser like a loser
The lyrics gain so much meaning when you know the guy's story, this is a man with barely any education that spent 20 years in prison and got released in his 40's. It happens, and people have reasons to consider their life ruined at that point. Ichiban managed to find his way with the help of his new friends, achieved so many feats in his first game, and will be the new protagonist of the yakuza series from now on. He's in his 40's, but his life begins now.
This song was the thing that brought me from kind of uninterested in Yakuza 7 to being hyped for it. It kind of perfectly represents Ichiban's nature compared to Kiryu and is a wonderful welcome to a new Dragon. We welcome you and hope you do lead a wonderful life, Ichiban!
It also made me go from "Meh, I'll get it later" to "Fuck it, I'm getting the day Ichi Edition"
@@JHenry-nz7hy lmao same. Definitely worth playing this game, Ichi has toppled kiryu and now Is my fave character. Especially the final scene with a certain young master. That got a tear rolling down my cheek
Ichi is 42, but he has so much youth energy that throughout the game you just never feel he's in his 40s
After playing Yakuza 7.
Yes, i wholeheartedly welcome Ichi, such a good character.
The dragon of Yokohama
The awful life he's spent. Orphan, imprisoned, thrown into oblivion, shot and left for dead. And yet he still loved one and every of the characters that made his life dreadful. At one point I thought that if it would have been me, I would have had a massive revenge against all of them but Ichi proved me wrong. He's indeed the best.
Kiryu is the man you look up too, Ichiban is the guy you want to hang out with.
Obsession ended with Goro Majima
Kasuga Ichiban is my best friend now
I think Ichiban was made to celebrate us as players and noble spirits altogether. We are the kind of people who step up this generation by changing a lot of old stereotypes about how to deal with the world we are facing everyday. We usually relate everything to videogames and try our best to find happyness in between chaos and sorrow. Ichiban is like a part of us trying to finf new adventures and helping people because we had been raised by noble videogames philosophies that take us appart from anger, envy and other nasty stuffs most of grow up people are full inside nowadays.
This is my fist yakuza game and even when im pretty sure they are all awesome, i think i won't be able to imagine these games without Ichiban and his pure kindness and imagination... this game is going straight forward to my top 10 favorite games of all times.
Beautifully said ❤
yakuza with a golden heart 💛
Boi
You know, I usually don’t really like songs that do nothing but talk about how awesome a new character is, as I find it to be similar to pandering, but in this instance, Ichiban absolutely earned it. He’s such an amazing character and the fact that he’s so kind and thoughtful towards everyone else makes him instantly lovable. A perfect person to head the franchise.
Ichi is proof that you can still do the "right" thing even tho he is "obligated" to follow the codes of system hes a part of (the Yakuza). He chooses conpassion and selflessness despite everyone and everthing around him tells him "thats just the way it is"
This songs really have some important message not only about ichiban but to the players. also a fucking banger
Just finished the game, so I come back to this.
Man, this game just instantly leaped into Top 3 Yakuza games for me. Ichiban is great, his story is great, they made good with making a very likeable main character that, while opposite to Kiryu, has more or less the same morals of seeing the best in people.
The party is great, by the mid point through the end, you feel like they're a tight knit cast and where as Kiryu excels in being a loner, Ichiban has his party members and relying on his friends to fight with him isn't a weakness.
I can't wait for Yakuza 8!
With are your favorite Yakuza games? My first game was Judgment (absolutely love it, amazing game 10/10), now I finished Yakuza 7. I already did download Y0 on my ps5 and played like 30min. But Im missing the eng. Dubbing already... I must say the eng. Dubbing in Judgment and Y7 was amazing, the japanese is probably even better but its hard to watch a 30min. sometimes around 1h long cutscenes and need to read them instead of focusing on the actuall cutscene and whats happening. So Im forcing myself a little to play Y0.
Ichiban is proof that no matter how bad you think you’ve got it, you’ve always got a path forward
Godspeed, you beautiful bastard
Just finished the game today omgggggg masterpiece 10/10
Now that Yakuza 7: Like a Dragon has been out in English for a little while (and I hope all of you have gotten the chance to play it), what lyric of this song do you like/sticks with you the most? For me personally its the last line of the song: Screw it all! You may have nothing! Yet you have the bravery to go forth and lead a wonderful life! I just think its cool this song ends on such a positive note, and honestly in a year like 2020 its such a great reminder of what we all can accomplish if we are brave enough. But enough from me, I want to know what you all think about the song!
Soar Up in the Shining Future to the Day you become a Legend.
Echoes a lot of what kiryu told him. He's not quite there yet but he's on the path to becoming as big of a legend as Kiryu despite not being as physically strong.
I don't think I can pick a specific verse, but the whole song just hits very differently now, especially with how the game ended.
its definetly the Chorus and specifically welcome Ichiban and we accept you ichiban. considering where this track actually plays in game it resonates so hard with not only the post credits scene but the entire fanbase who came to really love Ichiban through the journey
"We welcome you ichiban"
I'm Getting lot of fun on Like a Dragon on Xbox One. Man, this game is so amazing
just finished the game... now i feel empty and i miss ichiban’s story :’(
this is the kind of game you wish you could forget to experience it again and again and again
One of the best games I've ever played in my life
*HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ICHI!*
*GO FORTH AND LIVE A WONDERFUL LIFE!*
Ichiban as a character just inspires the fuck out of me.
Trying to do things right no matter how low in life he has to start, and inspiring the people around him to do the same, I think this is perfect for his dream of being a hero.
I'm glad I played this game despite me never having finished any RPG, but how could I not with this amazing cast of characters and storyline?
playing it was just 50h of fun and I feel like this song at the end of the game was the perfect celebration of that. I love ichiban and can't wait for his next adventure.
You know, this song had made me realize how much I absolutely adore Ichiban as a character. While Kiryu has been my favorite, Ichiban is beginning to test that. I enjoy the sheer amount of badassness that Kiryu has, Ichiban is just a nice guy who wants to be a hero to people. And I love that about him so much. He started from the bottom, and slowly, he is rising to the very top, and helping everyone he meets along the way. He really is a hero
I mean, Ichiban is the complete oposite of what Kiryu is. Ichiban is cheerful, smiles and always brightens the mood of those around him, he surounds himself with his friends and fights alongside them. All the while Kiryu is a silent and cold guy who doesn't smile much, he's always looked up to and his past is always chasing him, Kiryu fights alone to not endanger those who he love. But even that, i love Ichi since he's just a really good boy.
Can’t believe Eric Andre got his own game, looks eventful
Eric Andre is bald now so it doesn’t make sense anymore sorry
@@kaiflood6061 00:49 the legend will never die
@@bobbysmiles244 nah he just covered for his family and is serving time. He'll be out of jail within 15 years and get his hair back
I cant believe the leas singer for Bradio (the group that sang Flyers for death parade) got its own game
XDDD
I can't wait to play as Ichiban. From what I've seen in videos, and from what I've read from people who already played the game, he's totally awesome. Yes, he isn't as strong as Kiryu, but he makes up for it with a totally amazing personality. He's the opposite of "I never smile" Kiryu. Heck, if Kiryu was unintentionally goofy, Ichiban embraces being goofy (although he's not a total clown at all). I love it. Can't wait for November.
I recently completed Yakuza 7, I’m not disappointed to say I like Ichiban a tiny bit more than Kiryu, he’s a realist while maintaining a optimistic view in life, despite the hand he’s been given in life, despite how much he’s been treated like an underdog, he always continues to push forward and keep living his own way with his friends by his side, I truly accept Ichiban as the new official protagonist
Ryo Aoki: Are you lecturing me again about how important family is?
Ichiban: No! It's not a lecture!
Did you ever stopped to think why Arakawa-san, Captain Sawashiro and I never gave up on you no matter how much bad shit you dragged us into?
Let me tell you... It wasn't easy.
But we did it anyway because we're all connected deep inside our hearts!
You see things in black and white, but family is not that simple!
No one appreciated you for who you are!? BULLSHIT!
We were always there for you! We would've done anything for you, gone to hell and back.
All you had to do was ask!
When will you believe me when I say the three of us loved you?
Or are you just gonna keep pointing that gun at your head like a dumbass!?
Masato: Ichi...
Ichiban: This is not what you want to hear. But you know...
I consider you my brother, man.
That means something to me.
Don't make me watch my brother die.
Please? I can't do it.
Masato?
I'm begging you.
i cry every time
Thats a spoiler you know
Edit: Srcatch that technically the video is also a spoiler so its fine
Just finished the game, man, what an ending and the credits song is just cherry on top.
This edit is fucking amazing, thanks for the hard work, dude!
When this song released with the Japanese version of the game I quit a job that was giving me a really hard time, this on the pandemic peak. I was home taking online lessons and I remember crying and smiling at this song believing I would live a better life. I tried staying positive just like Kasuga. Today I feel alive having a stable job I always dreamed of. NEVER stop believing in yourselves. Take Ichiban's flashy spirit with you, you will have your time! Not even in games there's a permanent game over.
🥲💖
It’s amazing to see this series grow as much as it has from the PS3 days where trying to get people to look at these games for more than a second was an impossible task, now it’s such a strong community of humor, thirsty fans, emotions and optimism.
Had to watch this one last time before starting Infinite Wealth. Now I'm ready to see Ichi again!
I'm already feeling nostalgic for a game i finished an hour ago
The world needs more people like Ichiban Kasuga in it
happy birthday ichi
All rise for the Ichiban birthday anthem!
Idk if I'll be a huge fan of the turn based combat of the game but I can look past game mechanics for a good story and a good set of characters. Looks like this one will have both of the latter.
Yeah I felt the exact same way
It might help if you think of the turn based combat as a reflection of Ichibans personality
NSKR DarkTalon I’m a big JRPG fan so the change is great for me. But yeah, Ichiban is a huge Dragon Quest fan so he sees his fights as a turn based battle. I love it
Alezarde honestly a really great way to build the world of Yakuza 7, it’s such a genius move
Honestly yakuza fights have always felt like they're turn-based. Particularly boss fights, since many of them have hyper armour so you can't really grapple them more than to quickly execute a heat action. The only thing this game really removes is the option to dodge, but since you can heal in-combat it's pretty close to the same thing.
Kiryu had 7 games and was still a virgin.
Ichiban had 1 game and got laid 4 times.
Ichiban is a true chad.
And that's not counting the "honk-honk".
6 not 4
They really delivered with Ichiban. I love his character and his companions. Kiryu was great but Ichiban strikes you in a much more sympathetic way. What a lovable dork.
Anyone else love that the homeless camp go to loads of effort to save Ichiban just to throw him back in the trash after he stabilises?
The true 2020 goty
God it's been months since I beat the game but I'm still sobbing over that ending and then playing this theme over the credits fucking made me wail like a toddler
I really like how his suit is a complete invert of Kiryu's
And the color of both Nishikiyama's suits
You are here because:
1. The ending song was a "banger."
2. You found the song on UA-cam.
3. You read the lyrics and are getting emotional, like I am.
4. You then read the comment section AND YOU get EMOTIONAL TOO 😭
Finished the game yesterday, it ripped my heart appart. So many emotions, cannot really say a thing now. It is just simply pure perfection. The best game of 2020 by far. Nothing comes close.
I think I'm going to enjoy playing Ichiban more than I did as Kiryu! Don't know much but from the song he feel more relatable as a character!
I love you, Ichiban Kasuga... I love you so much
I personally don't understand why anyone wouldn't like Ichiban
before playing the game maybe...
after playing it, no, its impossible no one can dislike this wholesome human puppy
@@MagnusPrimeZ one from this comment section said he is weak and selfish
@@maheeppanwar4756 and why is that? just because its not a tekken character like kiryu? in this game they are trying to showcase other kind of strenght, he is supposed to be the opposite of kiryu and fits the themes of the story, and selfish? are we playing the same videogame? he puts others in front of him so often that its comical, after all that happened to him he HAD THE RIGHT to be selfish and he didnt it was his naiveness, kindness and selflessness that attracted every member of his party, like an JRPG(?) DRAGON QUEST(?), you know the whole point of this game being called LIKE A DRAGON
@@MagnusPrimeZ he said that he takes help from his friends and he is pussy
@@maheeppanwar4756 then every single JRPG protagonist is a pussy, wow thats idiotic
I just finished the game. Ichiban has won me over, like damn. Kiryu will always have a special place in my heart, but Ichi is making a real good case too. HOLY hell that ending sequence.
I hope Ichiban stays as the main character of future Yakuza games. I like the idea of the game starting and developing Kiriyu's story to its ending and starting anew as Ichiban as the main character
He's here to stay
At first, I didn't want to play this game because it was an rpg and kiryu wasn't the main character anymore. But playing this game made me love ichibans character. Waiting for the next game in his story
One thing I noticed after randomly translating both "Ichibanka" and "Ichiban ka" through google is that the title has a double meaning. "Ichibanka" or "一番下", the actual title Shounanno Kaze and Yasutaka Nakata used, is translated as "The bottom". I'm pretty confident on its meaning cause it's verified by Google Translate Contributors. While "Ichiban ka" or "いちばん か" is translated as "The best". It reflects Ichiban's journey from literally the bottom of society, to "The Best", or at least the best person he can become.
The actual title (as shown with the music video and on their website) is "一番歌" which means "The Ichiban Song," since the song is of course about Ichiban XD
@@kaiflood6061 ah yeah a mistake on my part, it has 3 different meanings then! All equally beautiful
Well the team really thought the name and titles rather awesomely, huh?
I watch this vid like three times a week minimum cuz it really has Ichibans best highs and lows so I don’t have to replay the entire game to get the best parts again haha great work