Which Yakuza Game is the Best?
The Yakuza series, now known as Like a Dragon in its more recent installments, has built a cult following with its unique blend of gritty crime drama, over-the-top action, and surprisingly heartwarming stories. For newcomers, or even long-time fans looking to revisit, the question inevitably arises: Which Yakuza game is the best? This isn't a question with a single, universally agreed-upon answer, as different entries resonate with players for various reasons. However, we can break down the most celebrated titles and explain why they stand out.
The Reigning Champion: Yakuza 0
If there's one game consistently hailed as the pinnacle of the series, it's Yakuza 0. Released in 2015 (2017 in the West), this prequel plunges players into the neon-drenched streets of 1980s Kamurocho and the grittier Sotenbori. It masterfully sets the stage for the entire saga, introducing us to a younger, more vulnerable Kazuma Kiryu and the unforgettable Goro Majima.
Why Yakuza 0 Reigns Supreme:
- Dual Protagonists: Playing as both Kiryu and Majima offers incredibly distinct gameplay styles and narrative arcs. Kiryu’s journey is one of a young, rising yakuza trying to clear his name, while Majima’s story is a tragic tale of a charismatic but imprisoned mad dog.
- Incredible Storytelling: Yakuza 0’s narrative is a sprawling, intricate crime thriller filled with twists, betrayals, and deeply human characters. It perfectly balances the serious yakuza drama with the series' signature absurd humor.
- Vibrant 1980s Setting: The retro aesthetic is a huge draw. The music, the fashion, the arcades (featuring playable classics likeOut Run and Space Harrier), and the overall atmosphere are incredibly immersive and stylish.
- Deep Gameplay Systems: The combat is fluid and satisfying, with each protagonist having multiple fighting styles that can be upgraded. The sheer amount of side content, from managing a cabaret club to running a real estate empire, is staggering.
Yakuza 0 isn't just a great Yakuza game; it's a phenomenal game, period. It’s the perfect entry point for new players and a beloved masterpiece for veterans.
The Emotional Core: Yakuza 5
Often cited as one of the most ambitious and expansive entries, Yakuza 5 (released in 2012, 2015 in the West) is a true epic. It features five playable protagonists, each with their own interconnected stories and unique gameplay segments, spread across five distinct Japanese cities.
The Grandeur of Yakuza 5:
- Unparalleled Scope: The sheer scale of Yakuza 5 is breathtaking. You’ll experience the gritty underbelly of Kamurocho, the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido, the bustling streets of Osaka, the vibrant nightlife of Fukuoka, and the quiet desperation of Nagoya.
- Diverse Playable Characters: Beyond Kiryu, you step into the shoes of Masayoshi Tanimura (a detective), Shun Akiyama (a loan shark), Taiga Saejima (a powerhouse), and the legendary Tatsuo Shinada (a former baseball star). Their stories are compelling and varied.
- Deeply Personal Narratives: While the overarching plot involves a looming yakuza war, the heart of Yakuza 5 lies in the personal struggles and triumphs of its characters. Themes of redemption, family, and the search for meaning are explored with profound depth.
- Enriching Side Activities: From managing a baseball team to hunting in the wilderness, the side content in Yakuza 5 is more varied and integrated than ever before, offering dozens of hours of additional gameplay.
While some might find its length daunting, Yakuza 5 offers an incredibly rich and emotionally resonant experience that showcases the series at its most ambitious.
The New Direction: Yakuza: Like a Dragon
For a significant shift in gameplay and protagonist, Yakuza: Like a Dragon (released in 2020) is a must-play. This entry introduces Ichiban Kasuga, a new protagonist who is as endearing and goofy as Kiryu is stoic. Crucially, it transitions the series from its signature brawler combat to a turn-based RPG system.
The Spark of Ichiban:
- A Charismatic New Hero: Ichiban Kasuga is a breath of fresh air. His unwavering optimism, his love forDragon Quest, and his genuine desire to do good make him an incredibly lovable character.
- Engaging Turn-Based Combat: The shift to RPG combat might surprise some, but it's executed brilliantly. It's strategic, fun, and perfectly fits Ichiban's personality, with "crazy” summons and unique job classes.
- A Fresh Perspective: Set in the fictional Yokohama district of Isezaki Ijincho, the game offers a new and vibrant environment to explore, filled with its own unique characters and challenges.
- Heartfelt Story of Underdogs: The narrative follows Ichiban and his ragtag group of friends as they navigate a complex conspiracy, fighting for their place in a harsh world. It’s a story about loyalty, found family, and overcoming adversity.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon proved that the series could evolve and thrive. It's an excellent starting point for those new to the franchise and a delightful change of pace for long-time fans.
The Definitive Remake: Yakuza Kiwami & Yakuza Kiwami 2
The Kiwami entries are fantastic remakes of the original PlayStation 2 titles, Yakuza and Yakuza 2. They modernize the gameplay, graphics, and even expand on the stories, making them accessible and enjoyable for today's audience.
Why the Kiwami Games Shine:
- Modernized Classics: They bring the foundational stories of Kiryu and the yakuza world to modern consoles with updated visuals and smoother gameplay.
- Expanded Narratives: The Kiwami games flesh out the original stories, adding new cutscenes and gameplay segments that offer more context and character development.
- Bridging the Gap: Yakuza Kiwami, in particular, serves as an excellent introduction to Kiryu's journey, detailing his expulsion from the Dojima Family and his rise from a nobody.
- Yakuza 2's Gem: Yakuza Kiwami 2 is arguably the stronger of the two, built on the powerful Dragon Engine, which also powers Yakuza 6 and Like a Dragon. Its story, involving the Omi Alliance and the infamous Ryuji Goda, is a series highlight.
If you want to experience the origins of Kiryu’s legend with modern polish, the Kiwami games are your best bet.
Conclusion: Which is Truly "Best"?
Ultimately, the "best" Yakuza game is subjective and depends on what you value most:
- For a perfect blend of story, characters, and gameplay in a stylish setting: Yakuza 0
- For the most epic, sprawling narrative with diverse gameplay: Yakuza 5
- For a fresh start with an amazing new protagonist and turn-based combat: Yakuza: Like a Dragon
- For modernized classics and the origins of Kiryu's story: Yakuza Kiwami & Yakuza Kiwami 2
No matter where you start, the Yakuza series offers an unforgettable journey filled with action, heart, and more side-splitting humor than you’d ever expect from a crime drama. Dive in, and you’re sure to find your own favorite dragon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I get started with the Yakuza series?
The most recommended starting point for newcomers is Yakuza 0. It’s a prequel, meaning you don't need any prior knowledge of the series to enjoy its incredible story and gameplay. It perfectly sets up the events of later games.
Why is the Yakuza series so unique?
The Yakuza series stands out due to its unparalleled ability to seamlessly blend intensely serious and emotional crime drama with utterly bizarre and hilarious side content. You can be in the middle of a life-or-death yakuza battle one moment, and the next you're singing karaoke or playing a vintage arcade game with an eccentric character.
Is the gameplay in Yakuza games always the same?
No, the gameplay has evolved significantly. The core of the original series and many subsequent titles features real-time, beat-'em-up combat. However, Yakuza: Like a Dragon marked a major shift by adopting a turn-based RPG combat system, and the franchise continues to explore different gameplay styles.
