Episode 262: Like A Dragon, Touched For The Very First Time

Episode 262: Like A Dragon, Touched For The Very First Time

Author: Deep Listens April 16, 2026 Duration: 1:31:56

In this episode Gino, Em, and Pete play their first Yakuza game, Yakuza: Like a Dragon! We cover the game's bonkers story, classic JRPG combat, and rediculous characters. We also cover the game's ability to highlight marginalized people while also making violence the answer to almost every problem. Like a Dragon is a game of contrasts. Unfortunately, Em's two hour explanation of the rules of Mahjong had to be cut for time. However, I assure you it was riveting.

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Every two weeks, the Deep Listens podcast gathers around a virtual table for what feels like a lively, insightful book club, only the texts we're reading are video games. Each episode picks apart a single title, not just to review it, but to truly unpack it. Conversations wander through the narrative themes and literary devices a game employs, dig into the philosophical questions it might raise, and examine the deliberate choices in its design that shape the experience. It’s a format that treats games as rich subjects worthy of deep discussion, but the tone remains consistently warm and humorous-more like friends hashing out their passions than a dry academic lecture. You'll come away hearing your favorite games discussed in a new light, appreciating the layers of thought and craft that can often go unnoticed during play. This podcast is for anyone who believes that the games we love are more than just entertainment; they're complex stories, fascinating systems, and art that merits a closer look. Thoughts and suggestions for games to cover are always welcome.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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