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Top Pirate Coliseum Crew Strategies in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza Hawaii

Authore: ClaireUpdate:May 08,2025

In *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii*, mastering the Pirate Coliseum requires not only skillful naval combat but also strategic crew formation. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best crew formations that will boost your chances of success in the Pirate Coliseum.

Pirate Yakuza: Crew Formations, Explained

The Crew Management System in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

When strategizing your crew aboard the Goromaru, focus on three key positions that significantly impact your performance in naval combat:

  • First Mate: This role is crucial as Goro's second-in-command, offering either an offensive or defensive boost to your ship during naval battles.
  • Squad Leader: Leading a section of your boarding party, this position enhances your team's capabilities during hand-to-hand combat. You can upgrade your ship to have up to four Squad Leaders, allowing for up to 20 crew members to board and fight alongside Goro.
  • Support Squad: These crew members don't engage in combat but provide critical stat boosts, such as enhanced attack and defense or healing, which can turn the tide of battle.

The Best First Mates For Your Crew Formation in Pirate Yakuza

Different battles may call for different strategies, so consider these top First Mates:

Daisaku Minami

The Crew Formation stat screen for Minami in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Daisaku Minami, Goro Majima's lifelong friend, joins your crew at the end of Chapter 4. His "Sink King Kiwami" trait significantly boosts damage to enemy sterns, making him an invaluable asset in high-stakes Pirate Coliseum matches where speed is essential.

Nishida

The Crew Formation stat screen for Nishida in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Nishida, recruited alongside Minami, enhances the Goromaru's durability by providing two additional repair uses. His defensive capabilities are crucial in battles against multiple enemy ships, ensuring your vessel stays in the fight longer.

Captain Beef

The Crew Formation stat screen for Captain Beef in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Captain Beef, an early recruit, is perfect for those seeking immediate offensive power. His "Sink King Kiwami" trait, despite lower boarding stats, makes him a strong choice for early game naval combat.

Misaki

The Crew Formation stat screen for Misaki in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Misaki, driven by a quest for revenge, offers the "Master of Stealth Kiwami" trait, granting two more smoke screen uses. This can be a game-changer in stealth-based strategies, allowing you to attack without detection.

Related: How To Upgrade Cannons in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

The Best Squad Leaders For Your Crew Formation in Pirate Yakuza

Squad Leaders play a pivotal role in hand-to-hand combat. Here are the best options to lead your boarding party:

Kazuma Kiryu

The Crew Formation stat screen for Kazuma Kiryu in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Kazuma Kiryu, a pre-order bonus, significantly boosts attack and charges the voltage gauge faster, making him an excellent choice for those who own the deluxe version of the game.

Jason

Jason, recruited early in the story, enhances both attack and defense with his "Former Hunter’s Knowledge" trait, perfect for early encounters in the Pirate Coliseum.

Daigo Dojima

Daigo Dojima, a DLC character, speeds up health recovery and charges the heat gauge, enabling devastating attacks. His "Wisdom King’s Divine Protection" trait is a game-changer in intense battles.

Ono Michio

The Crew Formation stat screen for Ono Michio in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Ono Michio, a beloved mascot, boosts attack and charges the madness gauge with his "The Idol of Onomichi" trait, making him a worthwhile addition from the DLC pack.

Masaru

Masaru, the first recruit in the main story, provides a slight edge in hand-to-hand combat with his "Marine Cuisine" trait, making him a solid second Squad Leader.

Taiga Saejima

Taiga Saejima, joining in the second-to-last chapter, significantly boosts both attack and defense with his "Veteran" trait, making him a formidable Squad Leader.

The Support Squad Members For Your Crew Formation in Pirate Yakuza

While not directly engaging in combat, Support Squad members can shift the battle's momentum with their skills:

Noah

Noah, the first Support Squad member, provides medium health recovery with his "Rallying Cry" skill. His presence and skill upgrades are crucial for surviving tougher battles.

Goro

Noah's pet tiger, Goro, boosts the damage of your boarding party with his "Goro’s Mighty Roar" skill. Keeping him in your formation ensures his skill's effectiveness increases over time.

Nancy-Chan

Nancy-chan, from the Ichiban DLC pack, enhances attack with her "Pincers of Pain" skill, synergizing well with Goro's Mighty Roar to deliver devastating blows.

These are the optimal Pirate Coliseum crew formations in *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii*. Strategize wisely and conquer the seas!

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