Goro's Top Early Upgrades in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

In *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii*, players take on the role of Goro Majima, the Mad Dog of Shimano, who starts his journey as an amnesiac ex-yakuza with a single fighting style. As you progress through the game's captivating narrative, Goro unlocks new weapons and the Sea Dog fighting style, which introduces a fresh upgrade tree. The game offers four distinct skill trees: Overall Stats, Shared Abilities, Mad Dog, and Sea Dog. Here are the best early upgrades for Goro to help you navigate through the challenges of *Pirate Yakuza* efficiently.

Max Health Boost (Overall Stats)

One of the first upgrades you should prioritize is the Max Health Boost. Given the intensity of boss fights surrounded by numerous henchmen, a higher health bar is crucial. This upgrade ensures Goro can withstand hits while effectively managing crowds, making it indispensable for success in *Pirate Yakuza*.

Attack Boost (Overall Stats)

Another essential early upgrade is the Attack Boost. This enhancement significantly increases the damage output of Goro's base attacks, aligning perfectly with the return to the traditional *Yakuza* melee combat style. Consider also investing in the Attack Boost Plus for smoother future playthroughs, despite its higher cost in in-game currency and points.

Knockdown Evasion (Shared Abilities)

When facing multiple adversaries, Knockdown Evasion becomes vital. This upgrade allows Goro to quickly recover from heavy attacks or melee weapon hits, enabling an immediate return to offensive play. It's a game-changer in maintaining the momentum during chaotic battles.

Quickstep Strike (Shared Abilities)

The Quickstep Strike upgrade enhances Goro's ability to attack after dodging, making every encounter smoother and more manageable. This skill is particularly useful in early boss fights, providing additional ways to trigger Goro's heat gauge attack and gain an edge in combat.

Grapple Counter (Shared Abilities)

Crowd control is made easier with the Grapple Counter upgrade. It not only prevents damage from grab attacks but also allows Goro to retaliate effectively, turning defensive moves into offensive opportunities.

Serpent Trick (Mad Dog)

The Mad Dog Style, Goro's pirate-inspired fighting technique, includes dual swords, a flintlock pistol, and a grappling hook. The Serpent Trick upgrade is a must-have early on, as it enables Goro to launch enemies into the air, setting up devastating combos and leaving foes vulnerable.

Frenzy Trick (Mad Dog)

Another crowd control gem in the Mad Dog style is the Frenzy Trick. This spin attack can knock down multiple enemies, proving invaluable in the game's naval combat side quests, where you often face waves of pirates.

Catch ‘n’ Slash (Sea Dog)

Already available when you unlock the Sea Dog style, the Catch ‘n’ Slash upgrade enhances Goro's projectile combat. It extends the throw duration and allows immediate follow-up attacks, enabling longer and more effective combos.

Charge ‘n’ Shoot (Sea Dog)

The flintlock pistol in the Mad Dog style can be a game-changer with the Charge ‘n’ Shoot upgrade. This enhancement reduces the charging time and increases the weapon's effectiveness, allowing Goro to shoot multiple enemies and knock them back, making it a practical choice in his arsenal.

These upgrades are the best early investments for Goro Majima in *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii*, helping you conquer the challenges and enjoy the thrilling pirate-themed adventure to the fullest.

*Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*