Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth's Dondoko Island: A Minigame's Unexpected Expansion Through Asset Reuse

The surprisingly expansive Dondoko Island minigame in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a testament to clever asset management. Lead designer Michiko Hatoyama revealed insights into its development in a recent interview with Automaton.

Initially conceived as a smaller feature, Dondoko Island's scope dramatically increased during development. Hatoyama stated that it "grew larger before we knew it," largely due to the addition of numerous furniture recipes.

This expansion was achieved through the strategic reuse and modification of existing assets from the Yakuza series' extensive library. Hatoyama highlighted the team's ability to create individual furniture pieces "in a matter of minutes," a stark contrast to the days or even months typically required for new asset creation. This efficient approach allowed for the rapid integration of a vast array of furniture options.

The decision to expand Dondoko Island and its furniture selection stemmed from a desire to provide players with fresh and engaging gameplay. The sheer scale of the island and the extensive list of craftable furniture items offer players significant freedom and enjoyment in transforming the initial garbage dump into a luxurious resort.

Released on January 25, 2024, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (the ninth mainline Yakuza title) has been well-received. Its success, coupled with the rich legacy of assets from the Yakuza series, ensures that RGG Studio has a wealth of resources for future projects. Dondoko Island stands as a prime example of how efficient asset utilization can elevate even a minigame to a substantial and rewarding player experience, offering countless hours of island-building fun.