The Ultimate Guide to the Evolution of the Yakuza Series: In What Order Should You Play?

The Yakuza series is a critically acclaimed video game franchise known for its captivating storyline, intriguing characters, and intense action-packed gameplay. With over a dozen games released since the series’ inception, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this guide, we will explore the evolution of the Yakuza series and provide insights into the recommended order to play the games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the franchise, this guide will help you navigate the world of Yakuza and ensure you get the most out of your gaming experience. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the thrilling world of the Yakuza series!

The Origins of the Yakuza Series

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The Yakuza series, also known as Ryū ga Gotoku in Japan, was first introduced in 2005 by Sega. The series was created by Toshiro Nagoshi and Daisuke Satō, and is known for its unique blend of action, drama, and humour. The first game in the series, simply titled “Yakuza,” was released on the PlayStation 2 console and followed the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza member who is drawn back into the world of crime and violence.

The Yakuza series is set in the fictional city of Kamurocho, Tokyo, which is based on the real-life district of the same name. The series has since expanded to include multiple spin-offs and sequels, with the latest release being “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” in 2020.

The series has been praised for its strong narrative, memorable characters, and engaging combat system. It has also been recognized for its representation of Japanese culture and its depiction of the yakuza lifestyle. The series has spawned numerous adaptations, including anime, live-action dramas, and films.

The First Yakuza Game: Yakuza 1

Yakuza 1, also known as Ryū ga Gotoku 1 in Japan, was the first installment in the Yakuza series. Developed and published by Sega, the game was released in 2005 for the PlayStation 2. Set in the fictional city of Kamurocho, Tokyo, the game follows the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza member who becomes embroiled in a power struggle within the Tojo clan, one of the most prominent yakuza organizations in Japan.

Storyline

The story of Yakuza 1 revolves around Kazuma Kiryu’s attempt to protect Haruka Sawamura, the daughter of his former yakuza boss, from the machinations of rival gangs and corrupt police officers. Kiryu must navigate the complex world of the yakuza, using his martial arts skills and street smarts to survive and protect those he cares about.

Characters

The game features a diverse cast of characters, including Kiryu’s allies and enemies within the yakuza world. Notable characters include Goro Majima, a fan favorite who becomes a close friend and ally to Kiryu, and Akira Nishikiyama, a rival yakuza member who serves as a foil to Kiryu’s character.

Gameplay

Yakuza 1 is an action-adventure game that combines elements of beat ’em up gameplay with RPG mechanics. Players control Kiryu as he explores Kamurocho, engaging in battles with rival gangs and completing side quests to earn money and experience points. The game also features a unique “Babysitting” mini-game, in which players must protect Haruka from harm while she performs various tasks around the city.

Reception

Yakuza 1 was well-received by critics and fans alike, with many praising its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and unique gameplay mechanics. The game spawned several sequels and spin-offs, solidifying its place as a beloved classic in the action game genre.

The Second Yakuza Game: Yakuza 2

The Yakuza series, also known as the Ryū ga Gotoku series in Japan, has been a beloved staple of gaming since its debut in 2005. The franchise, developed by Sega, revolves around the Japanese crime syndicate known as the Yakuza and the battles for power and control within the organization.

The second installment in the series, Yakuza 2, was released in 2006 for the PlayStation 2. It serves as a sequel to the original Yakuza game and follows the continuing story of series protagonist, Kazuma Kiryu, as he navigates the criminal underworld of Japan.

One of the standout features of Yakuza 2 is its branching storylines, which offer players multiple paths to follow and different endings depending on the choices they make. This added layer of complexity and player agency sets the game apart from its predecessor and paves the way for future installments in the series.

Additionally, Yakuza 2 introduces a number of new features and gameplay mechanics, including enhanced fighting and battling systems, expanded mini-games, and a more immersive world to explore. These enhancements further solidify the series’ commitment to blending action, drama, and humor in a unique and engaging package.

In conclusion, Yakuza 2 is a pivotal entry in the series that builds upon the foundation established by the first game while introducing new elements and mechanics that would come to define the Yakuza franchise.

The Third Yakuza Game: Yakuza 3

In 2009, the Yakuza series reached a pivotal point with the release of its third installment, Yakuza 3. This game marked a turning point for the franchise, introducing new gameplay mechanics, storylines, and characters that would shape the series moving forward.

New Gameplay Mechanics

Yakuza 3 introduced several new gameplay mechanics that would become staples of the series. These included:

• Mini-games: The series’ famous mini-games returned in Yakuza 3, but with new additions like “Pocket Racing” and “Golf.” These mini-games were not only a fun distraction from the main story, but they also helped to flesh out the game’s world and provide a more immersive experience.
• Heat: The heat system from Yakuza 2 returned in Yakuza 3, but with some changes. In Yakuza 2, heat was based on the player’s actions, but in Yakuza 3, heat was generated by completing missions and interacting with the game’s world. This made the heat system more dynamic and allowed for more spontaneous gameplay.
• Combat: Yakuza 3 introduced a new combat system that allowed players to use various fighting styles, weapons, and special moves. This system added a new layer of depth to the game’s combat and allowed players to tailor their fighting style to their own playstyle.

New Storylines and Characters

Yakuza 3’s story followed Kazama Kiryu as he navigated the complicated world of the Japanese Yakuza. The game’s story was split into three different narratives, each centered around one of the game’s main characters: Kiryu, Haruka, and Akiyama.

Kiryu’s story followed his efforts to stop a gang war between the Tojo Clan and the Omi Alliance. Haruka’s story focused on her life as a college student and her efforts to distance herself from the Yakuza world. Akiyama’s story centered around his attempts to bring down a corrupt police officer and protect his own interests.

These storylines introduced several new characters that would become important figures in the series moving forward, including Goro Majima, a fan-favorite character who would go on to star in his own spin-off games.

Impact on the Series

Yakuza 3 was a turning point for the series, introducing new gameplay mechanics, storylines, and characters that would shape the franchise moving forward. The game’s split narratives allowed for a more varied and engaging story, while the new combat system and mini-games added new layers of depth to the gameplay. The introduction of characters like Goro Majima also helped to expand the series’ universe and make it more interesting and dynamic.

Overall, Yakuza 3 was a crucial entry in the series’ history, setting the stage for the franchise’s future evolution and establishing it as one of the most beloved and enduring video game series of all time.

The Legacy of the Early Yakuza Games

The Yakuza series has been a staple in the gaming industry for over two decades, and its impact on the medium has been significant. The series has evolved over the years, with each game building upon the one before it to create a rich and complex narrative. In this section, we will explore the legacy of the early Yakuza games and how they laid the foundation for the series as a whole.

The Birth of the Yakuza Series

The Yakuza series was first introduced in 2005 with the release of the first game simply titled “Yakuza.” The game was developed by Sega and Am7 and was directed by Toshiro Nagoshi. The game was a critical and commercial success, and it established the series as a must-play for fans of the action-adventure genre.

Building the Foundation

The first two games in the series, “Yakuza” and “Yakuza 2,” were set in the world of Japanese organized crime and followed the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza member who is trying to leave his criminal past behind. These games established the core gameplay mechanics that would be present in subsequent installments, including the unique blend of fighting, exploration, and narrative-driven gameplay.

The Evolution of the Story

The early Yakuza games laid the groundwork for the series’ narrative, introducing key characters and plot points that would be explored in later games. The story of Kazuma Kiryu and his struggles with the yakuza was compelling and engaging, and it drew players into the world of the series.

The Impact on the Gaming Industry

The early Yakuza games had a significant impact on the gaming industry, particularly in Japan. The series helped to popularize the action-adventure genre in the country and paved the way for other games in the same vein. The series also helped to establish Sega as a major player in the gaming industry, and it remains one of the company’s most successful franchises to this day.

In conclusion, the early Yakuza games laid the foundation for the series as a whole and established it as a staple in the gaming industry. The series has continued to evolve over the years, with each game building upon the one before it to create a rich and complex narrative. Whether you are a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer looking to jump in, the early Yakuza games are essential playing for anyone interested in the evolution of the series.

The Rise of Kiryu Kazama

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Kiryu Kazama is the protagonist of the Yakuza series, a popular action-adventure game developed by Sega. The series revolves around Kiryu’s journey as a member of the Yakuza, a Japanese organized crime syndicate.

Kiryu’s story begins in the first Yakuza game, which was released in 2005. In this game, Kiryu is a mid-level member of the Tojo Clan, one of the most powerful Yakuza families in Japan. Kiryu is sent to the city of Kamurocho, Tokyo’s red-light district, to settle a dispute between two rival gangs.

Kiryu quickly becomes embroiled in a complex web of crime and violence, as he tries to navigate the dangerous world of the Yakuza. Along the way, he meets a cast of colorful characters, including his mentor, Haruto Arai, and the beautiful hostess, Yumi Saito.

As Kiryu rises through the ranks of the Tojo Clan, he is constantly challenged by rival gangs and corrupt police officers. He must use his fists, his wits, and his honor to survive in this brutal world.

In the subsequent Yakuza games, Kiryu continues to fight for his place in the Yakuza hierarchy, while also trying to protect the people he cares about. He faces off against powerful enemies, including the ruthless leader of the Omi Alliance, Ryuji Shinada, and the enigmatic crime boss, Majima Goro.

Throughout the series, Kiryu’s character evolves as he confronts his past, grapples with his sense of honor, and struggles to find his place in a rapidly changing world. He becomes a symbol of the Yakuza’s code of conduct, fighting for what he believes is right, even when it puts him at odds with his own organization.

In conclusion, the rise of Kiryu Kazama is a central theme in the Yakuza series, as he navigates the treacherous world of the Yakuza and strives to find his place in it.

Yakuza 4: The Birth of a Legend

A New Chapter in the Yakuza Series

• Introducing Kiryu Kazama as the main protagonist
• Expanding the game’s story beyond the Japanese underworld
• A more diverse cast of characters, including a mix of returning favorites and new faces

A Deeper Look into Kiryu’s Origins

• Delving into Kiryu’s past and the events that led to his involvement in the yakuza
• Uncovering the truth behind the Majima Family’s power struggle
• A focus on Kiryu’s relationships with other characters, including his surrogate father figure, Kamurocho’s premier crime boss, and a young, ambitious politician

The Gameplay Evolution Continues

• Improved combat system, including new techniques and weapons
• More varied side activities, such as hosting hostess clubs and participating in the stock market
• A more expansive world to explore, including the return of Kamurocho and the addition of Sotenbori, Osaka’s own neon-lit district
• The introduction of the “Dragon of Dojima” difficulty setting, which challenges players to complete the game without relying on excessive violence or cheap tactics

A Turning Point in the Series

• Yakuza 4 marked a turning point for the series, as it moved away from its roots in the Japanese underworld and began to explore new territories both narratively and geographically
• The game’s success paved the way for future installments to continue this expansion, resulting in a series that is both beloved and critically acclaimed

Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return

Introduction to Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return

Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return is the fifth installment in the Yakuza series and was released in 2012 for the PlayStation 3. The game takes place six years after the events of Yakuza 4 and follows the story of Kiryu Kazama as he navigates the criminal underworld of Tokyo.

Plot Summary

The plot of Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return revolves around Kiryu’s efforts to protect his surrogate daughter, Haruka Sawamura, from the criminal organization known as the “Tojo Clan.” Kiryu must navigate the complex web of relationships within the Yakuza to ensure Haruka’s safety and prevent a gang war from erupting.

New Features and Mechanics

Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return introduced several new features and mechanics to the series, including the ability to play as multiple characters and the addition of a “Dragon of Dojima” storyline.

Playable Characters

For the first time in the series, players can control multiple characters throughout the game. In addition to Kiryu, players can also take control of Goro Majima, a fan-favorite character from previous Yakuza games. Each character has their own unique abilities and fighting styles, adding a new level of depth to the gameplay.

Dragon of Dojima

The “Dragon of Dojima” storyline follows Kiryu as he tries to take down the Tojo Clan from within. This storyline is separate from the main story and offers a new perspective on Kiryu’s journey.

Clan Creation

Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return also introduces the ability to create and manage your own Yakuza clan. Players can recruit members, expand their territory, and engage in battles with rival clans.

Legacy and Impact

Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return received critical acclaim for its story, characters, and gameplay mechanics. The game was praised for its unique blend of action, drama, and humor, as well as its expanded gameplay features.

The success of Yakuza 5: Kiryu’s Return helped solidify the Yakuza series as a staple of the Japanese gaming industry and paved the way for future installments in the series.

Yakuza 0: The Prequel

Yakuza 0 serves as the origin story for the franchise’s protagonist, Kiryu Kazama, and marks the beginning of his journey in the world of the Yakuza. The game takes place in the late 1980s, ten years before the events of the first Yakuza game, and follows Kiryu as he rises through the ranks of the Tojo Clan.

The game is set in two cities: Kamurocho, Tokyo, and Sotenbori, Osaka. Players take control of both Kiryu and his friend, Majima, as they navigate the criminal underworld and engage in turn-based combat.

One of the unique features of Yakuza 0 is the “Dragon of Dojima” storyline, which follows Kiryu’s rise through the ranks of the Tojo Clan. Players must complete various side quests and missions to unlock new abilities and gain the respect of their allies.

In addition to the main story, Yakuza 0 also features a variety of mini-games, including the popular “Cabaret Club” and “Real Estate” modes. These games provide a break from the main story and offer a chance to earn money and build relationships with other characters.

Overall, Yakuza 0 is a critical entry in the series, as it sets the stage for the events that follow and introduces players to the world of the Yakuza. It is recommended that players start with this game before moving on to the other titles in the series.

Yakuza 6: Kiryu’s Final Chapter

• Yakuza 6: Kiryu’s Final Chapter serves as the conclusion to the story of Kiryu Kazama, the series’ protagonist.
• The game takes place ten years after the events of Yakuza 5 and follows Kiryu as he tries to distance himself from the yakuza lifestyle and live a peaceful life in Okinawa.
• However, Kiryu is drawn back into the world of the yakuza when his adoptive daughter, Haruka, goes missing and he must once again take up arms to protect those he cares about.
• Yakuza 6 features a unique battle system that incorporates the use of the Dragon Style, a powerful fighting technique that Kiryu learns over the course of the series.
• The game also features a strong cast of supporting characters, including the enigmatic detective Kiwami and the fierce warrior Shigenori.
• Players will also get to explore the beautiful island of Okinawa, complete with its own unique set of mini-games and side-quests.
• With its emotional story, engaging combat, and stunning setting, Yakuza 6: Kiryu’s Final Chapter is a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

The New Era of Yakuza

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With the release of Yakuza 0 in 2015, the series underwent a significant transformation. This game marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise, introducing a younger and more adventurous Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima as the main protagonists. This shift allowed the series to expand its narrative scope and appeal to a broader audience.

In this new era, the games became more action-oriented, with a focus on fast-paced combat and exploration. The series also began to incorporate RPG elements, such as character progression and skill trees, which added a new layer of depth to the gameplay.

Furthermore, the new era of Yakuza saw the introduction of several memorable side characters, such as the fan-favorite hostess, Mina, and the enigmatic Mad Dog of Shimano. These characters added a sense of camaraderie and humor to the series, making it more enjoyable for players.

The shift in tone and gameplay mechanics was met with critical acclaim, and the series continued to grow in popularity. As a result, the Yakuza franchise has become a beloved staple of the gaming industry, with a dedicated fan base that eagerly awaits each new release.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon

In 2019, the Yakuza series made a significant departure from its traditional gameplay mechanics with the release of “Yakuza: Like a Dragon.” This new entry marked a turning point for the franchise, moving away from the brawler-style gameplay that had defined the series for over a decade.

A New Direction for the Series

With “Yakuza: Like a Dragon,” the series’ developer, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, took the franchise in a bold new direction. Instead of focusing on the traditional beat ’em up gameplay, the game introduced a turn-based RPG-style battle system. This change was a risky move, but it paid off, as “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” was met with critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.

The Characters We Love

One of the defining features of the Yakuza series has always been its memorable cast of characters. “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” was no exception, introducing a new set of protagonists that players quickly came to love.

The game’s main character is Kazuma Kiryu, the former leader of the Tojo Clan and a fan-favorite character from previous Yakuza games. Alongside Kiryu is a cast of new characters, including Ichiban Kasuga, the game’s protagonist, and a host of supporting characters that each have their own unique personalities and stories.

A New City to Explore

Another hallmark of the Yakuza series has always been its vibrant, detailed worlds. “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” continued this tradition, introducing a new city for players to explore: Ise-Shima.

Ise-Shima is a beautiful, picturesque city located on the southern coast of Japan. It’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and landmarks, as well as a diverse cast of characters for players to interact with. The city is also home to a variety of side quests and mini-games, making it a joy to explore.

A Deeper Story

While previous Yakuza games had always had strong narratives, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” took the series’ storytelling to new heights. The game’s story is a deep, emotional tale of family, friendship, and redemption, and it’s one that will keep players invested from start to finish.

In addition to the main story, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” also features a variety of side quests and substories that delve even deeper into the game’s characters and world. These side quests are some of the best in the series, and they provide a wealth of additional content for players to enjoy.

Overall, “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” is a bold, exciting new direction for the series. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and detailed world, it’s a must-play for fans of the Yakuza series and RPGs alike.

Yakuza: Dead Souls

Yakuza: Dead Souls is the first game in the Yakuza series to deviate from the traditional open-world gameplay that fans had come to know and love. Instead, the game takes on a more action-focused approach, featuring a mix of both beat ’em up and shoot ’em up gameplay mechanics.

Plot

The story follows the protagonist, known only as “Kunio,” as he sets out on a mission to defeat a group of zombies that have taken over Tokyo. Along the way, he is joined by a cast of memorable characters, including a young girl named Rin and a talking head named Mr. Shakedown.

Yakuza: Dead Souls introduces a unique blend of action gameplay mechanics, including a “dragon” and “tiger” system that allows players to switch between two different fighting styles on the fly. The game also features a cover system, allowing players to take cover behind objects and pepper enemies with gunfire.

The game is broken up into several stages, each with their own unique enemies and boss battles. Players will need to utilize all of their skills and abilities to survive the onslaught of undead enemies that they will face.

Yakuza: Dead Souls was met with positive reviews from critics, who praised the game’s unique blend of action gameplay mechanics and the memorable cast of characters. The game’s soundtrack was also praised for its catchy and memorable tunes.

However, some critics felt that the game was too short and that the story could have been fleshed out more. Additionally, some players felt that the game’s deviation from the traditional open-world gameplay of previous Yakuza games was a step backward.

Overall, Yakuza: Dead Souls is a solid entry in the Yakuza series that offers a unique blend of action gameplay mechanics and memorable characters. While it may not be the best entry point for newcomers to the series, it is a must-play for fans of the franchise.

Yakuza: Kenzan!

Yakuza: Kenzan! is a unique entry in the Yakuza series that deviates from the traditional gameplay style. It was released in 2018 for the PlayStation 4 and is set in the Sengoku period of Japan, taking place 10 years after the death of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

In this title, players take on the role of protagonist Kage, who is on a quest to find his missing wife, Yumi. Kage is a skilled samurai and must use his swordsmanship to defeat enemies in combat.

One of the unique features of Yakuza: Kenzan! is the absence of minigames and the addition of a new combat system that focuses on realistic sword fighting. Players must strategically use different stances and attacks to defeat their opponents.

The game also features a unique visual style that blends traditional Japanese art with modern graphics. The character designs are particularly striking, with detailed clothing and facial expressions that help bring the characters to life.

In terms of story, Yakuza: Kenzan! is a standalone title that does not directly tie into the main Yakuza series. However, it does feature a few characters from the main series, including Goro Majima and Ryota Shinjo.

Overall, Yakuza: Kenzan! is a great addition to the Yakuza series for fans who are looking for something different. Its unique combat system and beautiful visuals make it a standout entry in the franchise.

Yakuza: Ishin!

• Introduction to Yakuza: Ishin!
  • Release date: February 2014
  • Available on: PlayStation 3
  • Developed by: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
  • Genre: Action role-playing game
  • Setting: 19th century Japan, in the city of Hakata, during the Bakumatsu period
• Storyline and characters
  • Players take on the role of Sakamoto Ryoma, a historical figure and samurai
  • Key characters include:
    • Akechi Mitsuhide: a famous samurai and ally of Sakamoto Ryoma
    • Saito Hajime: a member of the Shinsengumi and rival of Sakamoto Ryoma
    • Takasugi Shinsaku: a prominent figure in the Choshu clan and leader of the anti-shogunate movement
  • Story revolves around the Battle of Toba-Fushimi and the fall of the Edo period
• Gameplay and mechanics
  • Combat system: incorporates both gun and sword fighting
  • Side quests and mini-games:
    • Coin-tossing game: “Ishin-gura”
    • Fishing minigame: “Ishin Fishing”
    • Batting cage: “Ishin Baseball”
  • Additional features:
    • Dynamic weather system
    • Day-night cycle
    • Seasonal events
    • Interactive environment: players can explore the city of Hakata and interact with NPCs
• Reception and impact on the series
  • Critical reception: praised for its story, characters, and setting
  • Sales: exceeded 500,000 units worldwide
  • Impact on the series: marked the beginning of a new era for the Yakuza franchise, expanding its scope beyond the crime-ridden streets of Tokyo and exploring new historical settings and characters

The Future of the Yakuza Series

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Since the release of the original Yakuza game in 2005, the series has come a long way. With each subsequent game, the franchise has continued to evolve and expand, incorporating new features, mechanics, and gameplay elements. The future of the Yakuza series is looking bright, with new games in development and plans for expansion into new markets.

In this section, we will take a closer look at the future of the Yakuza series, including what fans can expect from upcoming games and the franchise’s plans for growth and expansion.

What to Expect from Upcoming Yakuza Games

Sega has announced plans to release several new Yakuza games in the coming years, including a remake of the original Yakuza game, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, and a new spin-off game, Yakuza: The Business of Fate.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a remake of the original Yakuza game, which was first released in 2005. The remake will feature updated graphics and gameplay mechanics, as well as a new storyline that takes place after the events of the original game.

Yakuza: The Business of Fate is a new spin-off game that takes place in a parallel universe to the main Yakuza series. The game follows a new protagonist, who is a young businessman looking to make a name for himself in the world of business.

New Features and Mechanics

In addition to new games, the Yakuza series is also set to introduce new features and mechanics in upcoming releases. These include:

• Improved combat system: In Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the combat system has been overhauled to incorporate new mechanics and features, including a dynamic battle system that allows players to use a variety of weapons and abilities.
• Expanded customization options: The upcoming games in the Yakuza series will feature expanded customization options, allowing players to personalize their characters with a wide range of clothing, accessories, and tattoos.
• New minigames: Each new Yakuza game will introduce new minigames for players to enjoy, including a new karaoke minigame in Yakuza: Like a Dragon.

Expansion into New Markets

The Yakuza series has traditionally been a Japan-only franchise, but Sega has announced plans to expand the series into new markets. This includes a localization of Yakuza: Like a Dragon for Western audiences, as well as plans to release future games in the series in other regions.

The expansion into new markets is part of Sega’s larger strategy to grow the Yakuza franchise and reach a wider audience. The company has also announced plans to develop new IPs and expand into new genres, indicating that the Yakuza series may not be the only franchise to bear Sega’s unique blend of action, drama, and humor.

Conclusion

The future of the Yakuza series is looking bright, with new games in development, new features and mechanics on the horizon, and plans for expansion into new markets. Whether you are a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer looking to dive into the world of Yakuza, there has never been a better time to get involved.

Upcoming Games and Expansions

As the Yakuza series continues to evolve, fans can look forward to several upcoming games and expansions. While details are still scarce, here’s what we know so far:

Yakuza: Like a Dragon

The next mainline entry in the Yakuza series, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, is set to release in Japan on December 11, 2019, and in the West in 2020. The game will feature a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, a former yakuza member who has been in prison for 18 years. The game will also introduce a new combat system, which will use a turn-based RPG-style battle system instead of the brawler-style combat of previous games.

Yakuza Online

Yakuza Online is a spin-off game that will be available on the PlayStation 4 and PC. The game is a card-based RPG that allows players to create their own character and interact with other players online. While the game is not a mainline entry in the series, it will feature familiar characters and locations from the Yakuza series.

Yakuza: Dead Souls

Yakuza: Dead Souls is a remake of the original Yakuza game, which was originally released on the PlayStation 2 in 2005. The remake will feature updated graphics and gameplay, as well as new content. The game will be available on the PlayStation 4 in Japan in 2020, with a Western release to follow.

Yakuza 7

Yakuza 7, also known as Yakuza: New Era, is the next mainline entry in the Yakuza series. While details are scarce, it is rumored that the game will feature a new protagonist and take place in a new location. The game is expected to release in Japan in 2021, with a Western release to follow.

These upcoming games and expansions promise to continue the evolution of the Yakuza series, introducing new gameplay mechanics and storylines while staying true to the series’ roots. Fans can look forward to experiencing the world of the Yakuza in new and exciting ways in the coming years.

The Legacy of the Yakuza Series

The Impact on Japanese Culture

The Yakuza series has had a significant impact on Japanese culture, particularly in the way it has portrayed the yakuza and their lifestyle. The series has helped to popularize the yakuza as a subject in popular culture, and has been instrumental in shaping the public’s perception of the yakuza as a whole.

The Influence on the Gaming Industry

The Yakuza series has also had a profound influence on the gaming industry as a whole. The series has set a new standard for storytelling in video games, and has inspired many other game developers to incorporate more complex and mature narratives into their games.

The Fanbase and Community

The Yakuza series has a dedicated fanbase and community, with many fans eagerly anticipating each new release. The series has a strong following in Japan, but has also gained popularity in other countries around the world, particularly in the United States and Europe.

The Future of the Series

The future of the Yakuza series is uncertain, but it is clear that the series will continue to be an important part of Japanese popular culture. With the success of the recent remasters and re-releases, it is likely that the series will continue to be a major player in the gaming industry for years to come.

It is also possible that the series will continue to evolve and grow, with new entries and spin-offs that explore different aspects of the yakuza world. Whatever the future holds, it is clear that the Yakuza series will continue to be a beloved and influential part of the gaming landscape.

FAQs

1. What is the Yakuza series about?

The Yakuza series is a Japanese role-playing game franchise developed and published by Sega. The series follows the story of the Japanese underworld, known as the Yakuza, and the struggles of various characters as they navigate the world of organized crime. The games feature a mix of action, adventure, and RPG elements, and have gained a cult following for their unique blend of Japanese culture and fast-paced gameplay.

2. How many games are in the Yakuza series?

As of 2021, there are a total of 11 mainline Yakuza games, with the most recent being Yakuza: Like a Dragon, which was released in 2020. In addition to the mainline games, there are also several spin-off titles, such as the Yakuza: Dead Souls and the Yakuza: Kenzan! series.

3. Can I play the Yakuza series in any order?

No, it is recommended to play the Yakuza series in chronological order to fully understand the story and characters. The first game in the series, Yakuza 0, takes place before the events of the other games and serves as a prequel to the entire series. After completing Yakuza 0, players can move on to the second game, Yakuza, which is the true beginning of the series. From there, players can continue to follow the story with subsequent games in the series, up to the most recent release, Yakuza: Like a Dragon.

4. How long does it take to complete a Yakuza game?

The length of time it takes to complete a Yakuza game can vary depending on the game and the player’s playstyle. On average, it takes around 20-30 hours to complete a mainline Yakuza game, although some games can be completed in as little as 10 hours, while others can take over 40 hours to finish.

5. Are the Yakuza games only available on console?

While the Yakuza series has traditionally been available on console, several of the more recent games have also been released on PC. Yakuza 0, Yakuza: Kiwami, and Yakuza: Like a Dragon are all available on PC, in addition to PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

How To Play Yakuza Games in The Right Order!