The Yakuza series is a critically acclaimed and beloved franchise by fans worldwide. With its immersive storyline, engaging characters, and intense action sequences, it has become a staple in the gaming industry. But for those who are new to the series, the question remains: how long would it take to complete the Yakuza series? This comprehensive guide will explore the evolution of the Yakuza series, providing insights into the number of games, their length, and the recommended playtime for each title. Get ready to dive into the world of the Yakuza and discover the answer to this intriguing question.
The Origin of the Yakuza Series
The Beginning: Yakuza (2005)
The Yakuza series, developed by Sega, is a critically acclaimed franchise that has been entertaining gamers for over a decade. The first game in the series, simply titled “Yakuza,” was released in 2005 and served as the foundation for all subsequent installments. This section will delve into the details of the game that started it all.
Plot and Setting
Yakuza is set in the fictional Japanese city of Kamurocho, which is loosely based on Tokyo’s red-light district of the same name. The story follows the journey of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza member who is dragged back into the world of organized crime after spending ten years in prison for a murder he did not commit. The game’s narrative revolves around Kiryu’s efforts to protect those close to him and uncover the truth behind his incarceration.
Characters
Kazuma Kiryu is the central character in Yakuza, and his journey serves as the backbone of the game’s story. He is portrayed as a complex, honorable, and compassionate individual who is constantly grappling with his past and the choices he has made. The supporting cast of characters includes other members of the Tojo clan, the yakuza family Kiryu used to belong to, as well as a variety of colorful individuals who inhabit Kamurocho.
Gameplay
Yakuza is an action-adventure game that incorporates elements of brawlers, beat ’em up, and role-playing games. Players control Kiryu as he fights his way through various enemies and bosses using a variety of punches, kicks, and combos. The game also features a branching storyline with multiple endings, depending on the player’s choices and actions throughout the game.
Legacy
Yakuza was well-received by critics and players alike, and its success spawned a series of sequels that continue to explore the world and characters of the franchise. The game’s blend of action, drama, and humor, along with its deep narrative and well-developed characters, have made it a staple of the action-adventure genre.
The Evolution: Yakuza 2 (2006) and Yakuza 3 (2009)
Yakuza 2 (2006) and Yakuza 3 (2009) marked a significant turning point in the Yakuza series, with numerous advancements in both gameplay and storytelling.
Enhanced Combat System
In Yakuza 2, the developers introduced a more sophisticated combat system, which included the addition of heat moves and a revamped enemy AI. Heat moves allowed players to unleash powerful and cinematic attacks when their heat gauge was filled, adding a new layer of excitement to the fights. Meanwhile, the improved enemy AI made battles more challenging and engaging, as foes became more adept at evading attacks and countering the player’s moves.
Yakuza 3 further refined the combat system by introducing new fighting styles, allowing players to customize their characters’ abilities and techniques. This added depth and versatility to the combat mechanics, enabling players to tailor their approach to each encounter.
Expanded RPG Elements
Yakuza 2 and Yakuza 3 also expanded the role-playing game (RPG) elements within the series. In Yakuza 2, the addition of a mini-games and side quests added a new layer of depth to the game world, while also providing players with a variety of activities to engage in outside of the main story. Yakuza 3 continued this trend, offering an even wider array of side content, including a robust property management system where players could invest in and upgrade various businesses.
Richer Storytelling
In terms of storytelling, Yakuza 2 and Yakuza 3 continued to build upon the series’ established narrative themes, while also introducing new characters and plotlines. The games delved deeper into the complexities of the Japanese criminal underworld, exploring the motivations and relationships of the various factions and characters. This increased focus on story and character development added emotional weight to the player’s actions, making the Yakuza universe feel more immersive and realistic.
Graphical Improvements
Lastly, Yakuza 2 and Yakuza 3 also featured noticeable graphical improvements over their predecessors. The games boasted improved character models, textures, and lighting, resulting in a more visually appealing experience for players. This enhanced presentation further contributed to the sense of immersion and realism in the series.
In conclusion, Yakuza 2 and Yakuza 3 were instrumental in shaping the evolution of the Yakuza series. With enhanced combat mechanics, expanded RPG elements, richer storytelling, and improved graphics, these games set a new standard for the franchise and laid the groundwork for future installments.
Key Features of the Yakuza Series
The Birth of Kiryu Kazama
The Yakuza series revolves around the story of Kiryu Kazama, a former gang member who rises through the ranks of the Tojo Clan to become one of its most respected leaders. Kiryu’s journey begins in the first Yakuza game, which was released in 2005.
Kiryu Kazama was created as a representation of the traditional Japanese Yakuza member. He is portrayed as a man of honor, who follows a strict code of conduct known as “Yakuza Bushido”. This code dictates that Yakuza members must always act with dignity and respect, even in the face of adversity.
One of the defining characteristics of Kiryu is his incredible strength. He is depicted as a powerful fighter, who can take on numerous opponents at once and emerge victorious. This strength is attributed to his rigorous training regimen, which includes regular visits to the local boxing gym.
Another key aspect of Kiryu’s character is his unwavering loyalty to his friends and family. Throughout the series, he goes to great lengths to protect those closest to him, often putting himself in harm’s way to do so. This loyalty is a central theme in the Yakuza series, and is often used to drive the plot forward.
In addition to his physical strength and loyalty, Kiryu is also known for his intelligence and strategic thinking. He is able to analyze situations quickly and come up with effective solutions to difficult problems. This ability is often called upon in the heat of battle, where Kiryu must use his wits to outmaneuver his opponents.
Overall, the birth of Kiryu Kazama is a crucial moment in the evolution of the Yakuza series. He serves as the central protagonist throughout the series, and his story arc is one of the driving forces behind the game’s popularity. His combination of physical strength, loyalty, and intelligence make him a compelling character, and his journey is one that fans of the series have come to love.
The Rise of Majima Goro
One of the most notable aspects of the Yakuza series is the evolution of Majima Goro, a character who starts as a minor antagonist but eventually becomes a beloved member of the cast. Here’s a closer look at the rise of Majima Goro:
- From Enemy to Ally: In the early games, Majima Goro serves as a foil to the protagonist, Kazama Kiryu, and is portrayed as a ruthless yakuza boss. However, as the series progresses, he becomes more of an anti-hero, working alongside Kiryu to take down common enemies. By the time we reach Yakuza 6, Majima is fully established as a member of the main cast and a key player in the story.
- Comedic Relief: Along with his evolving role in the story, Majima Goro also becomes a source of comedic relief in the series. His eccentric personality and bizarre hobbies (such as running a cabaret club and participating in cosplay contests) add a lighthearted touch to the often-serious storylines.
- Character Development: Throughout the series, Majima Goro undergoes significant character development. We see him struggle with his past mistakes and attempt to make amends for his wrongdoings. He also grapples with his identity as a yakuza member and questions whether or not he wants to continue down that path.
- Spin-off Games: In addition to his appearances in the mainline Yakuza games, Majima Goro also stars in several spin-off titles, such as the Kamurocho Dungeon and Onimichi games. These titles allow players to explore Majima’s backstory and see how he became the character we know and love.
Overall, the rise of Majima Goro is a testament to the strong writing and character development in the Yakuza series. By taking a minor character and fleshing him out into a fully-realized personality, the series has added depth and complexity to its storytelling.
The Inclusion of Mini-Games
One of the defining features of the Yakuza series is the inclusion of mini-games. These games range from classic arcade titles to more modern and innovative offerings, and they are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the game world.
Classic Arcade Games
The earliest Yakuza games featured a number of classic arcade titles, such as Virtua Fighter and Out Run, which were playable within the game world. These games served as a fun diversion from the main story, and they helped to flesh out the world of the Yakuza series.
New Mini-Games
With each new installment in the series, the mini-games have become more varied and sophisticated. For example, Yakuza 0 introduced a full-fledged golfing game, while Yakuza 6 added a realistic fishing simulation. These games are not just simple diversions, but fully-realized experiences that add depth and richness to the world of the Yakuza series.
The Dragon of Dojima
In Yakuza 5, the mini-game “The Dragon of Dojima” was introduced. This game is a turn-based RPG that follows the adventures of a young Kazama as he rises through the ranks of the Tojo Clan. It is a fully-realized game within a game, with its own story, characters, and gameplay mechanics.
Painting and Decorating
Yakuza 4 introduced a mini-game called “Painting and Decorating,” which allowed players to customize the homes of the game’s characters. This mini-game was expanded upon in later games, with Yakuza 6 featuring a full-fledged home decorating simulator.
The Evolution of Mini-Games
Overall, the inclusion of mini-games has been a key part of the evolution of the Yakuza series. These games have helped to flesh out the world of the series, providing players with a range of experiences that go beyond the main story. As the series has evolved, so too have the mini-games, with each new installment introducing new and innovative offerings that push the boundaries of what is possible in a video game.
The Progression of the Yakuza Series
Yakuza 4 (2010) and Yakuza 5 (2012): Expanding the Narrative
Yakuza 4 and Yakuza 5, both released in the early 2010s, marked a significant turning point in the Yakuza series’ narrative development. These two games introduced new playable characters, each with their unique stories and perspectives, significantly expanding the overall narrative of the series.
New Characters and Stories
In Yakuza 4, players were introduced to four new protagonists: Shun Akiyama, Masayoshi Shimano, Taiga Saejima, and Haruka Sawamura. Each character had their own storyline, which intertwined with the main story, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Players could switch between characters at any time, allowing them to experience the game from multiple perspectives.
Yakuza 5 continued this trend by introducing three new protagonists: Kazama Kiryu, Goro Majima, and Akiyama Shun. These characters had previously appeared in earlier Yakuza games, but now players could control them throughout the game. Each character had their own storyline, which added to the overall narrative of the series.
Impact on the Yakuza Series
The introduction of new characters and stories in Yakuza 4 and Yakuza 5 significantly expanded the overall narrative of the series. Players could now experience the game from multiple perspectives, gaining a deeper understanding of the world and its characters. The narrative became more complex and nuanced, as players could see how different characters’ stories interconnected.
These games also introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the “Dragon of Dojima” and “Mad Dog of Shimano” styles, which added more variety to the combat system. Additionally, both games featured a robust side-quest system, providing players with a wide range of activities to engage in outside of the main story.
In conclusion, Yakuza 4 and Yakuza 5 marked a significant turning point in the Yakuza series’ narrative development. By introducing new characters and stories, these games significantly expanded the overall narrative of the series, providing players with a more complex and nuanced understanding of the world and its characters.
Yakuza 0 (2015): A Prequel with New Features
Yakuza 0 marked a significant turning point in the series as it served as a prequel to the entire storyline. Set in the late 1980s, the game follows the early years of Kiryu Kazama and Goro Majima, two protagonists who would later become central figures in the Yakuza series. The game was released in 2015 and introduced several new features that set it apart from its predecessors.
One of the most notable features of Yakuza 0 is its inclusion of multiple playable characters. Players can switch between Kiryu and Majima at any time, allowing them to experience the game from two different perspectives. Each character has their own unique abilities and fighting styles, adding an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.
Another significant addition to the series is the inclusion of a revamped battle system. Yakuza 0 features a more fluid and dynamic combat system, allowing players to perform a variety of moves and combos. The game also introduces a new feature called “Heat Actions,” which allows players to perform special moves when their Heat gauge is filled.
In addition to the new features, Yakuza 0 also features a robust side quest system. The game’s side quests are not simply filler content, but rather are integrated into the main storyline and provide insight into the characters and world of Yakuza. Completing these side quests also rewards players with valuable items and experience points.
Finally, Yakuza 0 also introduces a new feature called “Majima Everywhere,” which adds an extra layer of challenge to the game. Majima, who is portrayed as a comedic relief character, becomes a recurring boss throughout the game, popping up unexpectedly and challenging the player to a battle. Defeating Majima rewards players with valuable items and experience points.
Overall, Yakuza 0’s new features and enhancements to the series set a high standard for the subsequent games in the series. The game’s multiple playable characters, dynamic combat system, and robust side quest system add depth and complexity to the gameplay, while the inclusion of Majima Everywhere adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement.
Yakuza 6 (2016): Kiryu’s Final Chapter
A Bittersweet Farewell to Kiryu Kazama
- In Yakuza 6, players embark on Kiryu Kazama’s final journey as the series’ main protagonist.
- Set ten years after the events of Yakuza 5, Kiryu faces his most personal challenge yet: saving his adopted daughter, Haruka Sawamura, from a sinister fate.
- As Kiryu, players will engage in a variety of familiar and new activities, including brawling, street racing, and exploring the city of Kamurocho.
The End of an Era: Kiryu’s Retirement
- Throughout the game, Kiryu grapples with the decision to retire from the yakuza life and leave Japan behind.
- This inner turmoil adds an emotional depth to the story, as players witness Kiryu’s growth from a young, ambitious gangster to a seasoned patriarch.
- Players will encounter familiar faces from the series, such as Goro Majima and series antagonist, Ryuji Goda, as they navigate the complex world of the yakuza.
The Legacy of Kiryu Kazama
- Yakuza 6 marks the end of Kiryu’s story, but his impact on the series and the characters within it will be felt for years to come.
- As players progress through the game, they will uncover secrets about Kiryu’s past and his relationship with Haruka, leading to a heart-wrenching climax.
- Despite its somber tone, Yakuza 6 is a fitting send-off for Kiryu, providing a sense of closure while leaving the door open for new adventures in the Yakuza universe.
The Influence of the Yakuza Series
Popularity and Critical Acclaim
The Yakuza series has gained a significant following since its inception in 2005. The series has received critical acclaim for its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and unique blend of genres.
Widespread Appeal
The Yakuza series has a widespread appeal, attracting fans from all over the world. The series has gained popularity in both Japan and the West, with each installment garnering positive reviews and building a dedicated fan base.
Critical Acclaim
The Yakuza series has been praised by critics for its exceptional storytelling, strong characters, and engaging gameplay. The series has received numerous awards and recognition, solidifying its place as one of the most influential and beloved video game franchises of all time.
The Yakuza series has left a lasting legacy in the gaming industry, inspiring countless other games and franchises. Its unique blend of action, adventure, and RPG elements has paved the way for other games to explore new genres and storytelling techniques. The series has also inspired numerous spin-offs, sequels, and adaptations, further solidifying its place as a staple in the gaming world.
Impact on Japanese Culture
The Yakuza series has had a significant impact on Japanese culture since its inception in 2005. The series, also known as “Ryū ga Gotoku” in Japan, has become a cultural phenomenon that has influenced everything from popular culture to politics.
Popular Culture
The Yakuza series has had a significant impact on Japanese popular culture. The series has spawned numerous spin-offs, including games, anime, and movies. The series has also inspired a dedicated fan base, known as “Yakuza Fans,” who have become deeply invested in the world of the series.
Politics
The Yakuza series has also had an impact on Japanese politics. The series has been used as a tool to educate people about the realities of organized crime in Japan. The series has also been used to raise awareness about social issues, such as domestic violence and child abuse.
Japanese Society
The Yakuza series has also had an impact on Japanese society as a whole. The series has been credited with helping to change the way that Japanese people view organized crime. The series has also been credited with helping to promote a more open and tolerant society.
Overall, the Yakuza series has had a significant impact on Japanese culture. The series has influenced everything from popular culture to politics, and has helped to shape the way that Japanese people view organized crime and social issues.
Spin-Off Games and Adaptations
Throughout the years, the Yakuza series has had a significant impact on the gaming industry. Alongside its mainline games, the series has also given rise to various spin-off titles and adaptations that have helped to expand its reach and appeal to a wider audience. In this section, we will delve into the details of these spin-off games and adaptations, exploring how they have contributed to the growth and evolution of the Yakuza series.
Offline Games
One of the earliest spin-off games in the Yakuza series is the “Yakuza: Black Panther” series, which was released exclusively in Japan for the Sega Saturn and PlayStation 2 consoles. This series, developed by AM7, focuses on the adventures of Kiryu Kazama, the protagonist of the mainline Yakuza games, as he battles against various foes using his unique fighting abilities.
Another notable spin-off game is “Yakuza: Dead Souls,” which was released for the PlayStation 3 in 2011. This game features a unique blend of action and strategy gameplay, as players control a team of characters, including Kazama and other familiar faces from the series, as they fight against hordes of zombies in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo.
Online Games
In addition to its offline spin-off games, the Yakuza series has also branched out into the world of online gaming with the release of “Yakuza Online,” a browser-based game that allows players to build and manage their own crime syndicate within the world of Yakuza. This game has been a hit among fans of the series, who enjoy the opportunity to interact with other players and build their own criminal empires within the familiar setting of the Yakuza universe.
Adaptations
Alongside its spin-off games, the Yakuza series has also inspired a number of adaptations in other mediums, including manga, anime, and live-action television dramas. These adaptations have helped to bring the world of Yakuza to a wider audience, and have allowed fans of the series to experience its unique blend of action, drama, and humor in new and exciting ways.
In conclusion, the Yakuza series has been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for over two decades, and its influence can be seen not only in its mainline games, but also in its spin-off titles and adaptations. Whether players are looking to explore the world of Yakuza in new and exciting ways, or simply want to experience the series’ unique blend of action and drama, there is something for everyone in the Yakuza universe.
The Future of the Yakuza Series
The Transition to a New Generation
As the Yakuza series continues to evolve, it has become clear that the franchise is transitioning to a new generation of gamers. This transition has been marked by a number of significant changes, including a shift in focus from the traditional Japanese setting to a more global stage, as well as a move away from the traditional turn-based combat system.
One of the most notable changes in the Yakuza series is the shift in focus from the traditional Japanese setting to a more global stage. This shift has been evident in recent installments of the series, such as Yakuza 7 and Yakuza 8, which take place in locations such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo. These new settings offer players a chance to explore a variety of different environments and cultures, which helps to keep the series feeling fresh and exciting.
Another significant change in the Yakuza series is the move away from the traditional turn-based combat system. In recent installments of the series, players have been given more control over their characters’ movements and actions, allowing for a more dynamic and engaging combat experience. This change has been particularly notable in the series’ recent spin-offs, such as Yakuza: Like a Dragon, which introduces a new turn-based combat system that allows players to control their characters in real-time.
Despite these changes, the Yakuza series remains true to its roots, with a strong emphasis on storytelling and character development. As the series continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these new elements are incorporated into the gameplay, and how they will impact the overall experience for players.
The Expansion to Other Platforms
- With the success of the Yakuza series on PlayStation consoles, it was only a matter of time before the franchise expanded to other platforms.
- In 2019, the first Yakuza game was released on PC, marking the series’ debut on a non-PlayStation platform.
- Since then, several other Yakuza games have been released on PC, and the series has also made its way to Xbox and Nintendo Switch.
- The expansion to other platforms has opened up the Yakuza series to a wider audience and has helped to maintain its popularity.
- It is likely that the Yakuza series will continue to expand to other platforms in the future, bringing its unique blend of action, drama, and humor to even more gamers.
The Continuation of the Series
- New Releases and Expansions
- The release of Yakuza 7: Like a Dragon in 2020 marked a significant turning point in the series, shifting the focus from Kiryu Kazama to a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga. This change has opened up new possibilities for the storyline and gameplay mechanics.
- The upcoming release of Yakuza 8 is expected to continue this shift, introducing new characters and exploring different aspects of the yakuza world.
- Anime Adaptations
- The popularity of the Yakuza series has led to the creation of several anime adaptations, including the acclaimed “Yakuza: The Animated Series” and the more recent “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” anime.
- These adaptations offer a unique perspective on the Yakuza world and its characters, and are a great way for fans to engage with the series in a different format.
- Expanding into New Markets
- The Yakuza series has a dedicated fanbase in Japan, but has also gained popularity in other parts of the world.
- To capitalize on this growing interest, the developers have announced plans to release localized versions of the games in several languages, making the series more accessible to a global audience.
- Collaborations with Other Media
- The Yakuza series has collaborated with several other media franchises, including the popular JRPG series “Persona” and the live-action drama “Yakuza: The Lost Decade”.
- These collaborations have helped to expand the Yakuza universe and offer new perspectives on its characters and storylines.
- Innovations in Gameplay
- The Yakuza series has always been known for its innovative gameplay mechanics, and the future looks bright for this aspect of the series as well.
- Developers have hinted at the possibility of introducing new mini-games and other interactive elements, as well as continuing to refine and improve existing mechanics.
- Emphasis on Social Issues
- The Yakuza series has always tackled social issues head-on, and this trend is likely to continue in the future.
- With a new protagonist in Ichiban Kasuga, the series has the opportunity to explore a wider range of social issues and offer a fresh perspective on the yakuza world.
- The Legacy of the Series
- The Yakuza series has been a beloved part of Japanese gaming culture for over a decade, and its impact has been felt far beyond its home country.
- As the series continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it adapts to changing times and remains relevant to its fans.
How Long Would it Take to Complete the Yakuza Series?
The Length of Each Game
The length of each game in the Yakuza series varies depending on the amount of content and side quests available. Generally, the main storyline of each game can be completed within 10-20 hours, while completing all side quests and content can take several dozen hours.
Here is a breakdown of the approximate playtime for each game in the series:
- Yakuza (Kiryu Kazama saga): 10-15 hours
- Yakuza 2: 10-15 hours
- Yakuza 3: 15-20 hours
- Yakuza 4: 15-20 hours
- Yakuza 5: 20-30 hours
- Yakuza 0 (prequel): 20-30 hours
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon (Ryuji Sakamoto saga): 20-30 hours
Note that these are approximate playtimes and can vary depending on the player’s pace and how much they choose to explore the game’s content. Additionally, some games in the series have additional DLC or side content that can add more playtime.
Overall, the Yakuza series offers a substantial amount of content for players to explore, with each game offering a unique experience and storyline. While completing the main storyline can take a few hours, taking the time to complete all side quests and content can offer a more complete experience for fans of the series.
The Time Required to Complete the Series
- Introduction: The Yakuza series, also known as the Ryū ga Gotoku series in Japan, is a long-running and critically acclaimed video game franchise developed by Sega. The series is known for its blend of action, drama, and comedy, as well as its unique setting in Japan’s criminal underworld. The series has a total of 10 mainline games, with numerous spin-offs and side-quests, which can make it difficult to determine how long it would take to complete the entire series. In this section, we will provide an overview of the time required to complete the Yakuza series.
- Estimating the Time Required: Estimating the time required to complete the Yakuza series can be a daunting task, given the number of games and side-quests available. However, we can provide a rough estimate based on the average playtime for each game. The average playtime for a mainline Yakuza game is around 20-30 hours, with some games taking longer to complete. If we take the average playtime of 25 hours for each game, the total playtime for the mainline games would be approximately 250 hours. However, this does not include the time required to complete the numerous side-quests and spin-offs available in each game. Therefore, the estimated time required to complete the entire Yakuza series, including all mainline and side-quests, could be anywhere between 300-500 hours or more.
- Tips for Completing the Series: Completing the entire Yakuza series can be a challenging task, especially given the time required to complete each game. However, there are some tips that can help you complete the series more efficiently. One of the most important tips is to prioritize the mainline games and complete them in the order they were released. This will ensure that you get the most out of the story and character development, as each game builds on the previous one. Additionally, it is recommended to focus on the main storyline of each game and skip side-quests and minigames, unless you are particularly interested in them. Finally, it is recommended to take breaks between games to avoid burnout and maintain interest in the series.
- Conclusion: Completing the entire Yakuza series can be a significant time investment, but it is a rewarding experience for fans of the franchise. By following the tips provided above, you can complete the series more efficiently and fully experience the story and characters that make the Yakuza series so beloved.
Tips for Efficient Gameplay
If you’re planning to complete the entire Yakuza series, it’s important to be strategic in your gameplay to make the most out of your time. Here are some tips to help you play the game efficiently:
1. Focus on the Main Storylines
The Yakuza series has a lot of side quests and mini-games that can be quite entertaining, but they can also distract you from the main storylines. To make the most out of your time, focus on completing the main storylines first before diving into the side content.
2. Prioritize Mini-Games that Give Experience Points
Mini-games are a significant part of the Yakuza series, and some of them can give you valuable experience points that can help you level up faster. Prioritize mini-games that give you the most experience points and try to complete them as soon as possible.
3. Take Breaks and Rest
Playing the Yakuza series can be quite intense, and it’s important to take breaks and rest to avoid burnout. Take breaks after completing a chapter or after playing for a few hours, and use the time to relax and recharge.
4. Save Your Progress Often
The Yakuza series can be quite lengthy, and it’s important to save your progress often to avoid losing any progress in case your game crashes or your console freezes. Make sure to save your progress after completing a chapter or after playing for a few hours.
5. Utilize Fast Travel
Fast travel is a great feature that can save you a lot of time in the Yakuza series. Use fast travel to get around the city quickly and avoid walking long distances.
6. Manage Your Inventory
Managing your inventory is an important part of the Yakuza series, and it can help you save time and avoid unnecessary clutter. Make sure to manage your inventory regularly and get rid of items that you no longer need.
By following these tips, you can make the most out of your time and complete the Yakuza series efficiently.
FAQs
1. How many games are in the Yakuza series?
There are currently seven mainline Yakuza games, with the latest being Yakuza 7: Like a Dragon, 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: Kiwami series.
2. Can I play the games in any order?
The mainline Yakuza games have a numbered sequence, with each game following the story of the previous one. It is recommended to play the games in order to fully understand the story and character progression. However, spin-off titles can be played in any order.
3. How long does it take to complete a single Yakuza game?
The length of time it takes to complete a single Yakuza game varies depending on the game and the player’s playstyle. On average, it takes around 20-30 hours to complete a mainline Yakuza game, but this can range from 10-50 hours or more.
4. Can I save my progress between games?
Yes, the Yakuza series has a save system that allows you to transfer your progress from one game to the next. This means that you can pick up where you left off in the story, even if you switch between different games in the series.
5. What platforms are the Yakuza games available on?
The Yakuza games are primarily available on PlayStation consoles, with some games also available on PC via Steam. The most recent games in the series, Yakuza 7 and Yakuza: Like a Dragon, are also available on Xbox Series X/S and PC.
6. Are the Yakuza games difficult?
The difficulty of the Yakuza games varies depending on the game and the player’s skill level. Some games are more challenging than others, and there are also difficulty settings that can be adjusted in most games. However, the series is generally known for its balanced difficulty, which allows both casual and hardcore players to enjoy the games.
7. What is the recommended order for playing the Yakuza games?
The recommended order for playing the Yakuza games is as follows:
1. Yakuza
2. Yakuza 2
3. Yakuza 3
4. Yakuza 4
5. Yakuza 5
6. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life
7. Yakuza 7: Like a Dragon
This order follows the main storyline of the series, with each game building on the previous one’s narrative.