Title: Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth Reflects Real-Life Layoff Trends in the Gaming Industry
Introduction:
Gaming has always had a knack for releasing titles that reflect the current times and resonate with players. Animal Crossing, for example, sparked joy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, the latest game to hit the market, is poised to do the same. This game specifically connects with players, especially those affected by layoffs in the gaming industry. The opening moments of the game address a trend that plagues the industry: layoffs.
Ichiban’s Unexpected Layoff:
In the game, players follow the journey of Ichiban Kasuga, who secures a job at Hello Works, an employment office aimed at helping former yakuza members find civilian jobs after the dissolution of the Tojo clan. However, Ichiban’s joy is short-lived when he unexpectedly receives a layoff notice. This mirrors the author’s own experience and is a common occurrence in the real world. Players who have faced or are currently facing layoffs will likely resonate with this depiction.
Real-World Layoff Statistics:
The gaming industry has unfortunately seen approximately 5,932 layoffs, affecting companies such as Microsoft, Riot Games, Behavior Interactive, Unity, and Twitch. The lack of transparency and abruptness in the layoff process often leaves employees without a proper explanation or farewell, causing increased emotional distress.
Parallels Between Ichiban’s Experience and Real Life:
In the game, Ichiban is given ample time to bid farewell to his colleagues, facing uncomfortable platitudes about finding new work. This mirrors the emotions and challenges individuals face during real-world layoffs, including despair, uncertainty, and the need to put on a brave face. The game effectively captures these struggles.
Freelancing and Financial Struggles:
After the layoff, Ichiban’s job changes to that of a freelancer, highlighting the growing trend of the gig economy. The game emphasizes the need to scavenge for money and items, reminiscent of the difficulty in finding employment in the real world, particularly when it comes to pitching to media outlets.
Inflation and Wage Gap:
Infinite Wealth explores the rising prices of desired weapons and support items, possibly commenting on inflation. Ichiban’s need to borrow money from a fellow character further highlights the financial struggles faced by laid-off individuals.
Themes of Guilt and Second Chances:
The game delves deep into the guilt and hope associated with layoffs and the search for new opportunities. It effectively mirrors the experiences of individuals affected by layoffs in the gaming industry, emphasizing the need for second chances and perseverance.
Finding Inspiration:
Through Ichiban’s determination and resilience in the face of adversity, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth offers inspiration to players. Those who can relate to the struggles faced by the protagonist may find motivation and strength to pursue their dreams, knowing that they are not alone.
Conclusion:
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth not only aligns with real-world layoff trends in the gaming industry but also provides an emotional and thought-provoking experience for players. The game’s depiction of layoffs, freelancing, financial struggles, and themes of guilt and second chances resonates deeply with players facing similar hardships. Through Ichiban’s story, players can find inspiration to overcome challenges and keep fighting for their dreams, reminding them that they are capable of achieving greatness even in the face of adversity.
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