The ‘Yakuza’ franchise, (‘Ryū ga Gotoku’ in Japan) in its second updated era as ‘Like a Dragon’ was first released in Japan for the PlayStation 2 in December 2005. The origins of the series date back to the plan by Toshihiro Nagoshi, a designer who wanted create a game that explores the life of the yakuzathe Japanese mafia, and its culture.
The birth of a legend
The first game, ‘Yakuza’, introduced Kazuma Kiryu, the protagonist who became a symbol of the franchise. The story follows him as he navigates Japan’s criminal underworld, facing challenges that combine action, drama and elements of everyday life. The game was very well received behind closed doors for its rich narrative and detailed depiction of life in the fictional city of Kamurocho, based on the famous Kabukichō district in Tokyo.
Yakuza/Like a Dragon and the mafia (in Japanese)
In its native Japan it grew with sequels and spin-offs, each delving into Kiryu’s narrative and introducing new characters and gameplay mechanics. ‘Yakuza 2’ (2006) continued the story, followed by other chapters exploring different aspects of yakuza life. With each delivery, The series has evolved to include more mini-games, side quests, and an open-world experience.which has broadened its appeal. However, ‘Yakuza’ did not gain relevance in Spain until the release of ‘Yakuza 0’ (2015), which acted as a prequel and attracted an interesting number of new players. This installment, along with the localization of those previously published, helped cement a fan base that has spread throughout the world.
With the premiere of the series ‘Like a Dragon: Yakuza‘ in Amazon Primethe franchise opens to the world showing the powerful career of its most emblematic characters. Below, we explore the main titles of the series and how they have evolved over time, allowing us for two decades to immerse ourselves in an urban Japan full of drama, action and a touch of surrealism.
Yakuza 0
Original release: March 2015 (PS3, PS4)
Considered as the ideal starting point for new players‘Yakuza 0’ takes place in 1988 and tells the story of how Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima become involved in the world of the yakuza. This game explores the ambition and violence of the era, all set in the vibrant settings of Tokyo and Osaka. In addition to its dark narrative of crime and redemption, it is packed with mini-games and side activities that offer a unique contrast to the main story. Partially adapted to appeal to a Western audience, this title features more current and accessible mechanics, which helped cement the franchise’s popularity in the international market.
Yakuza
Original release: December 2005 (PS2)
Remastered version: ‘Yakuza Kiwami’ – January 2016 (PS4)
Originally released in 2005, the first title in the series was remastered as ‘Yakuza Kiwami’. The term “Kiwami”, meaning “extreme”reflects the effort to improve the technical aspects of the original without losing its essence, making this remastering an excellent gateway for new players. This version offers improved graphics and updated mechanics. In the game, Kazuma Kiryu is released from prison after being convicted of the murder of a rival leader, only to become embroiled in conspiracies that threaten his clan, the Tojo. The Tokyo setting and characteristic combat style are maintained, offering an experience rich in action and narrative.
Yakuza 2
Original release: December 2006 (PS2)
Remastered version: ‘Yakuza Kiwami 2’ – December 2017 (PS4)
In ‘Yakuza 2’, Kazuma Kiryu faces a new threat to the Tojo clan, this time related to the Chinese mafia. Set a year after the events of the first game, the plot is remembered for its narrative and character development. The Kiwami version updates the original game with modern graphics and an improved combat system. ‘Yakuza 2’ is essential for those seeking to understand the progression of characters and the development of rivalries that shape the narrative of the series.
Yakuza 3
Original release: February 2009 (PS3)
Remastered version: ‘Yakuza 3 Remastered’ – August 2020 (PS4)
After the intense events of the previous games, ‘Yakuza 3’ takes Kazuma Kiryu to Okinawa, where he tries to leave his criminal life behind to run an orphanage. However, the past catches up with him when dark interests threaten his new home, forcing him back into action. The remastered version features improved graphics and is crucial to understanding Kiryu’s emotional evolution. This title shows a more human side of the protagonist and highlights the sense of responsibility that he develops over the years.
Yakuza 4
Original release: March 2010 (PS3)
Remastered version: ‘Yakuza 4 Remastered’ – August 2020 (PS4)
In ‘Yakuza 4 Remastered’, the story expands by introducing four playable protagonists, each with their own combat style and narrative. The plot revolves around a murder that endangers peace in Kamurochoand the characters must join forces to solve the mystery. This installment was innovative by diversifying the protagonists, expanding perspectives on the yakuza underworld. The variety of characters and play styles makes ‘Yakuza 4’ a unique experience, enriching the mythology of the franchise.
Yakuza 5
Original release: December 2012 (PS3)
Remastered version: Yakuza 5 Remastered – August 2020 (PS4)
Originally released in 2012, ‘Yakuza 5’ continues the trend of multiple protagonists and features five playable characters with distinct stories and motivations. The plot takes place in five cities in Japan, addressing themes of family, loyalty and ambition, which are central to the series. With its expansive approach and varied gameplay, it is one of the most complex titles in the franchise and offers a multifaceted look at the culture and social realities of Japan.
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life
Original release: December 2016 (PS4)
‘Yakuza 6’ marks the final chapter in the saga of Kazuma Kiryu, who sets out in search of answers about his adopted daughter, Haruka, and the reasons for her disappearance. The narrative explores the consequences of the protagonist’s decisions throughout his journeyoffering an exciting ending to his story. This title represents a worthy conclusion to Kiryu’s journey, with improved graphics and more modern mechanics paving the way for new protagonists and stories.
Judgment
Original release: December 2018 (PS4)
‘Judgment’ is a spin off of the series that focuses on Takayuki Yagamia former lawyer turned detective who investigates a series of murders in Kamurocho. Amid conspiracies in the yakuza underworld, Yagami seeks redemption and justice as he uncovers crime scenes and pursues suspects in intense combat. This game offers a unique perspective on the Yakuza universe, focusing on investigation and mysteries, while maintaining the drama and intense atmosphere that characterize the series.
Lost Judgment
Original release: September 2021 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S)
The sequel, ‘Lost Judgment’, follows Yagami as investigates a complicated stalking case that involves even darker crimes. Set in Kamurocho and Yokohama, the game balances themes of justice and revenge, with combat and investigation mechanics that include chases and clue gathering. This sequel expands its own universe, providing new combat abilities and minigames. The video game offers a darker look at the Yakuza universe, exploring moral dilemmas and the darker side of justice.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Original release: November 2020 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC)
In 2020, ‘Yakuza: Like a Dragon’ marked a milestone by introducing a new era in the franchise. The series is reinvented with a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and features a shift towards turn-based combat. Abandoned by his former yakuza group, Ichiban seeks revenge and finds himself immersed in a story full of betrayals and discoveries. This innovative approach, along with the inclusion of numerous references to previous games, offers an experience that combines nostalgia and innovation, appealing to new players and veterans alike.
Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name
Original release: 2023 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC)
The franchise continues to expand with ‘Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name’, a title that was released in 2023. This game delves into the story of Kazuma Kiryu, tying in events from ‘Yakuza 6’ and ‘Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth’. With a focus on action, the title offers around 30 hours of content, providing an intense and immersive experience.
Like a Dragon: Ishin!
Original release: 2023 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC)
‘Ishin!’ takes us to Japan in the 1860sfollowing the story of Sakamoto Ryoma, a samurai who seeks revenge after the murder of his mentor. Infiltrating the Shinsengumi group, Ryoma seeks to unravel the corruption and uncover the truth behind the crime. With a combat system that combines sword, gun and hand-to-hand combat, this title maintains the characteristic action of the ‘Yakuza’ series while presenting a historical setting rich in details.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Original release: January 2024 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC)
Finally, ‘Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth’ has proven to be the most ambitious installment of the series. With Ichiban and Kiryu as protagonists, this game expands the open world and presents new exploration and interaction systems. The story begins when Ichiban receives information about his biological mother, Akane Kishida, whom he believed to be dead. His search takes him to Honolulu, where he joins up with Kiryu, who is also on the island looking for Akane. Together they must take on various local criminal organizations, while Kiryu deals with his own personal conflict related to his health.
a long journey
Completing the journey through the ‘Yakuza’ franchise is like completing an emotional marathon that reveals the heart of urban Japan and the complex dramas of its characters. The series delves into themes of loyalty, power and sacrifice in the underworld of the Japanese mafia,
With main titles, spin-offs like ‘Judgment’ and the evolution with ‘Like a Dragon’, the franchise has taken directions that allow us to explore interesting stories combining action, comedy and moments of introspection. No matter where you start, it always surprises, offering an unforgettable combination of drama, action and a touch of surrealism. A journey through a universe that not only reveals the complexities of the Japanese criminal underworld, but also invites us to reflect on universal themes such as loyalty, sacrifice and redemption.
The titles are available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. But, you can also enjoy the series ‘Like a Dragon: Yakuza’ now on Amazon Prime, where the powerful career of these emblematic characters is exposed. If you’ve been intrigued by the franchise’s rich history, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in this ruthless world.