In Yakuza: Like a Dragon, there are many collectibles, currencies, and resources that play an important role in character development and overall progression. One of the most notable of these is the Tojo Crest. This small but significant item ties directly into the game’s lore, rewards system, and party enhancement mechanics. Though easy to overlook at first, Tojo Crests become extremely valuable as you dive deeper into the game’s features. Understanding where to find them, what they are used for, and how to make the most out of each one is essential for players who want to unlock powerful gear and form strong bonds with characters from the Tojo Clan legacy.
What Are Tojo Crests?
Tojo Crests are collectible items that players can find throughout the city of Ijincho and other areas in Yakuza: Like a Dragon. They are marked with the Tojo Clan emblem, reflecting the game’s deep connections to the previous entries in the Yakuza series. Unlike ordinary loot, Tojo Crests serve a unique purpose: they are used to unlock returning characters and powerful bonuses through a special in-game system.
Key Features of Tojo Crests
- Special collectible item with limited quantity per playthrough.
- Used to redeem character-related rewards and upgrades.
- Tied to the legacy of the Tojo Clan, one of the major crime families in the Yakuza universe.
- Usually hidden in corners, rooftops, alleys, and other less-traveled parts of the map.
Tojo Crests aren’t just for fun or collectibles they have practical value that directly affects gameplay.
Where to Find Tojo Crests
Finding all the Tojo Crests in Yakuza: Like a Dragon can take time. They are scattered across the world, and unlike traditional quest markers, they don’t appear on the map until you get close to them. This encourages players to explore every nook and cranny of the game’s detailed environments.
Common Locations
- Isezaki Ijincho: The majority of crests are found in this main city area. Check rooftops, alleyways, parking lots, and behind vending machines.
- Yokohama Underground Dungeon: Some crests can be found while exploring the dungeon floors. They may appear in side rooms or near loot containers.
- Sotenbori and Kamurocho: During certain chapters, you’ll visit these locations. Keep your eyes open for hidden spots with crests.
You can increase your odds of finding Tojo Crests by enabling the camera zoom function and regularly scanning areas with the first-person camera. Sparkles on the ground often indicate collectibles, and Tojo Crests usually shine subtly when approached.
What Tojo Crests Are Used For
The main use for Tojo Crests is to redeem them at a specific NPC who offers valuable rewards. This character is located at the secret Tojo Clan Remnants hideout within the city. Once unlocked, you can trade crests to summon allies or receive special gear upgrades.
Tojo Clan Hideout Redemption
Here’s what you can do with your crests at the redemption point:
- Recruit Legendary Allies: Unlock returning Yakuza characters like Goro Majima and Taiga Saejima for battle assistance through Poundmates.
- Exchange for Gear: Receive powerful equipment or upgrade materials that help during the late-game phases.
- Character Bonding: Some redemptions affect story bonds and interactions with specific characters linked to the clan’s history.
This system rewards longtime fans of the series while also giving newcomers a fun incentive to explore the lore and gain tangible gameplay benefits.
Best Strategies for Farming Tojo Crests
Although there are a limited number of Tojo Crests in a single playthrough, you can plan your route and use specific methods to ensure you collect as many as possible. Some players miss out simply because they don’t revisit earlier locations or ignore rooftops and back alleys.
Tips to Maximize Crest Collection
- Explore Thoroughly: Always check dead ends, rooftops, and hidden alleys. Many crests are placed out of view intentionally.
- Use Online Maps: If you’re struggling, community-created maps often show exact locations of all known crests, making it easier to track them down.
- Return After Upgrades: After unlocking the ability to climb fences or access locked areas, return to previous districts to find new crests.
- Mark as You Go: Keep track of which areas you’ve fully explored to avoid backtracking too often.
With careful navigation and a methodical approach, you can collect nearly all crests before the final chapter of the game.
Which Poundmates Require Tojo Crests?
Poundmates are a combat summon system in Yakuza: Like a Dragon, allowing players to call powerful allies for one-time battle effects. Some of the most powerful Poundmates can only be unlocked using Tojo Crests.
Notable Tojo Crest Poundmates
- Goro Majima: A fan favorite who deals massive area-of-effect damage with his wild combat style.
- Taiga Saejima: Known for his brutal strength, perfect for taking down bosses and tanky enemies.
- Daigo Dojima: Offers defensive buffs and crowd control effects that help keep your team alive.
These characters not only bring nostalgic appeal but also play vital roles in tackling difficult late-game content and optional boss fights.
Are Tojo Crests Missable?
Generally, most Tojo Crests can still be collected later in the game, even if you miss them the first time. However, certain story chapters lock you out of specific regions temporarily. It’s recommended to be thorough while exploring each chapter to avoid extra backtracking.
Missable Crest Warning
- During Chapter 12 and Chapter 14, some areas become inaccessible for a while.
- If you’re aiming for 100% completion or Platinum trophy, start collecting early and regularly.
- Premium Adventure mode (New Game Plus) allows full access again if you need to mop up remaining items.
Being proactive ensures that you won’t miss any important crests or delay access to powerful rewards.
Tojo Crests
The Tojo Crest system in Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a fantastic blend of exploration, fan service, and gameplay reward. Each crest found brings you closer to unlocking legendary allies and powerful enhancements. By investing the time to locate and redeem them, players not only gain a combat advantage but also get to interact with beloved characters from the series’ past. Whether you’re a returning fan or new to the franchise, collecting Tojo Crests adds an exciting side activity that deepens the RPG experience. Don’t ignore these small yet valuable items as you fight your way through Yokohama’s underworld each one has the power to shift the tide of battle in your favor.