Start with Yakuza 0, then Kiwami, Kiwami 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and finally Like a Dragon. This is the most narratively satisfying way to play the Yakuza games.
So, you’re eager to dive into the world of Kamurocho and experience the saga of Kiryu Kazuma and Ichiban Kasuga. You’re probably wondering, what order should i play the yakuza games? It’s a fair question, since the series spans multiple titles across different platforms.
The Yakuza series tells a complex, ongoing story with deep connections between the games. Playing them in a specific sequence lets you appreciate the character development and plot intricacies. Going out of order may lead to spoilers and confusion regarding the plot.
What Order Should I Play the Yakuza Games?
So, you’re diving into the world of Yakuza, huh? That’s awesome! It’s a fantastic series full of drama, action, and surprisingly heartwarming moments. But with so many games, knowing where to start can feel like a boss fight in itself. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you navigate the sometimes complicated world of the Yakuza series and figure out the best way to experience the epic story of Kazuma Kiryu and his friends.
The Core Saga: Kiryu’s Journey
The main Yakuza series centers around Kazuma Kiryu, a tough but kind-hearted former yakuza. Following his story in order is the most common and often the most satisfying way to play these games. Think of it like reading a really long book series – starting with the first one helps everything make sense. This is where most players should begin.
Yakuza 0: The Perfect Starting Point
Even though it came out later, Yakuza 0 is actually a prequel. This means it tells the story before the very first Yakuza game. Many fans and newcomers alike agree that starting with Yakuza 0 is the best way to go. It introduces you to the world, characters, and gameplay style in a very good way. Plus, it has an amazing story that will hook you right from the start. It shows us both Kiryu and Majima’s story, which make it more appealing. In Yakuza 0, we see young Kiryu and Majima before they become the legends we know in later games, which provides a nice amount of context.
- Why start here? It’s a prequel, so there are no spoilers for other games.
- Characters: You get to know young Kiryu and Goro Majima.
- Story: A captivating story that easily pulls you in.
- Gameplay: A great introduction to the combat and world of Yakuza.
Yakuza Kiwami: Remake of the First
After Yakuza 0, you should jump into Yakuza Kiwami. This is a remake of the very first Yakuza game. It uses the gameplay and style of Yakuza 0, making it a nice transition. It continues Kiryu’s story and builds on what you learned in Yakuza 0. It also introduces some important characters that reappear in other games. The main story in this game isn’t too long and does a great job of introducing you to the world of Kamurocho, a fictional red-light district in Tokyo.
- Why play it next? It’s the next chapter in Kiryu’s story.
- Gameplay: Feels familiar after playing Yakuza 0.
- Story: Continues the main narrative with twists and turns.
Yakuza Kiwami 2: Another Great Remake
Yakuza Kiwami 2 is a remake of Yakuza 2. Like Kiwami, this game features updated graphics and gameplay and continues Kiryu’s saga. The story is more complex and the stakes are higher. It introduces some more intense battles and a big cast of characters. The game uses the “Dragon Engine,” which you will see in future games as well. By this point, you’ll be very invested in Kiryu’s world.
- Why play it now? It’s the next step in the core story.
- Engine: First game that uses the Dragon Engine.
- Story: A deeper and more complex narrative.
Yakuza 3: Stepping into the PS3 Era
Yakuza 3 is where we begin to see the original games, as it is not a remake. It may feel a little dated in terms of visuals, especially after playing Kiwami and Kiwami 2. However, this game is crucial to Kiryu’s growth and introduces us to his orphanage in Okinawa, another key location in his life. The story focuses on protecting the kids and his peaceful life in a new setting. The gameplay shifts a bit, and you may find it more challenging, but it is an important story to experience.
- Why play it after Kiwami 2? Follows the direct storyline after Kiwami 2.
- Setting: Introduces Okinawa and Kiryu’s new life.
- Gameplay: Gameplay shifts from the dragon engine.
Yakuza 4: Multiple Perspectives
Yakuza 4 does something really special: it introduces three new playable characters in addition to Kiryu. It allows you to see the story from different perspectives. This approach enhances the narrative and adds a whole new dimension to the experience. Each character has a distinct story and fighting style, which adds variety to the gameplay. We see the return of fan-favorites, but with a new spin. This is definitely a great entry in the series.
- Why play it next? It enhances the narrative from different viewpoints.
- Multiple Characters: Introduces three more playable characters.
- Story: It gives a fresh take with its perspective.
Yakuza 5: The Most Ambitious
Yakuza 5 is known for being huge and ambitious. It allows you to play as not three, not four, but five playable characters. It is the longest game in the main series, with each character getting a good amount of time to develop. This game takes you to even more locations, which is very interesting. The story is very complex, but everything comes together in the end. This is definitely one of the longer Yakuza games.
- Why play it? It is the longest game in the series, very deep.
- Playable Characters: Features five playable characters.
- Story: It’s complex, but everything connects well.
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life – Kiryu’s Finale
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life is Kiryu’s final chapter. The story is very emotional, as it is the last time you get to play as him. The game features updated gameplay with the Dragon Engine. It’s an important game to play for the emotional conclusion of Kiryu’s saga. If you have been following Kiryu since Yakuza 0, you’ll feel a big emotional connection with the characters and story in this entry. This game also sets up the next chapter for the Yakuza series.
- Why play it last? It’s the final chapter of Kiryu’s story.
- Engine: It uses the Dragon Engine.
- Story: Emotional conclusion to Kiryu’s saga.
The Spin-offs and Side Stories: Expanding the World
After playing through the main series, there are still more Yakuza games to play! These spin-offs and side stories provide more of the world and characters in different perspectives.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon: A New Protagonist
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a big change for the series. You don’t play as Kiryu anymore, instead, you control Ichiban Kasuga, a new hero with a very different personality. Unlike the other games, it has a turn-based combat system, similar to old RPGs. This game is a very good entry point for new players. Even if you are not new to the series, it still gives you a fresh perspective, along with a new main protagonist.
- Why play it? It features a brand new story and protagonist.
- Combat: Uses turn-based combat system.
- Story: A fresh story that is not connected to the Kiryu saga.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name – Back to Kiryu
Yakuza: Like a Dragon Gaiden is a game that fills in some gaps for Kiryu after the events of Yakuza 6 and before his appearance in Like a Dragon. This game brings back the classic combat style that everyone loves. It lets you experience Kiryu’s story one last time as he works under a different alias. If you love Kiryu, this is a must-play!
- Why play it after Like a Dragon? Fills in Kiryu’s missing story.
- Combat: Returns to the classic action combat.
- Story: Connects to the overall series storyline.
Judgment and Lost Judgment: A Detective Story
The Judgment games are spin-offs that put you in the shoes of Takayuki Yagami, a private detective and former lawyer. These games are set in the same world as Yakuza but have a different vibe. Instead of fighting and focusing on crime organizations, you investigate cases and uncover mysteries. These games feature a lot of investigating and action sequences. Both Judgment and Lost Judgment are great games and can be enjoyed in any order.
- Why play them? Spin-off series set in the same world.
- Protagonist: Features a new hero, Takayuki Yagami.
- Gameplay: Focuses on detective work and combat.
Other Spin-offs: For the Dedicated Fans
There are other spin-offs, like Yakuza Ishin (now remade as Like A Dragon Ishin), set in Japan in the 1800s, and Yakuza Dead Souls, which is a zombie spin-off. These are often considered optional and are for those who really want to dive deep into the Yakuza universe. You can play these anytime after you are familiar with the core series.
- Why play them? Unique experiences in the Yakuza world.
- Setting: Take place in different time periods or genres.
- Optional: Can be played any time after the main series.
The Recommended Play Order
Okay, so with all that information, here’s a recommended order to play the Yakuza games:
- Yakuza 0
- Yakuza Kiwami
- Yakuza Kiwami 2
- Yakuza 3
- Yakuza 4
- Yakuza 5
- Yakuza 6: The Song of Life
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name
- Judgment (Optional, can be played any time after the main series)
- Lost Judgment (Optional, can be played any time after the main series)
- Other spin-offs (Optional, play after you’re comfortable with the main series)
This order lets you experience the main story of Kazuma Kiryu, followed by the new chapter with Ichiban, and the spin-offs. Of course, you can play the games in a different order, but this is the path most players enjoy!
Starting with Yakuza 0 provides a great introduction to the world and characters. It also does a fantastic job of building a foundation for the rest of the series. Playing through the core games chronologically allows for a smooth progression. After that, you can jump into Yakuza: Like a Dragon which provides a fresh perspective. The Judgment games are enjoyable anytime after you have a solid understanding of the main story.
The Yakuza series is something special. It’s an amazing blend of crime drama, over-the-top action, and touching moments. Playing them in the right order will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of these great games. So what are you waiting for? Pick a game, start playing and experience the amazing world of Yakuza!
How YOU Can Get Into the Yakuza Series
Final Thoughts
To experience the Yakuza series best, play in release order. Begin with Yakuza 0, then Yakuza Kiwami, Kiwami 2, 3 Remastered, 4 Remastered, 5 Remastered, 6: The Song of Life, and finally Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Following this path ensures you understand the narrative progression and character development.
This order is a must for experiencing the saga’s intricate storytelling. You’ll see how Kiryu’s legend evolves and how the gameplay changes. So, concerning ‘what order should i play the yakuza games’, follow the above recommendation to enjoy the full experience.
