Since then, the Japanese media franchise has worked towards releasing eight main chronological games.
Out of these, some were great hits, while others fairly missed the mark.
Thankfully, more recent games are now being released in the West, propelling its well-deserved acclamation worldwide.
In case youd like to play previous games, Yakuza fans have made translations available.
Lets dive right in.
Unlike the main releases,Judgmentintroduced a new lawyer-turned-detective protagonist whose drive for justice reels you right in.
Fans and critics alike commend the attention to detail in the new story.
Gamers get to experience the hands-on action-adventure gameplay comparable to previous main releases.
The only notable con is the lost opportunity in a more satisfying detective gameplay.
It is the seventh main entry in the Yakuza franchise, and follows the chronological format of Yakuza games.
In a bid to advance gameplay and graphic styling, Sega used the brand-new Dragon Engine.
On the other hand, Yakuza 6 focused entirely on bringing a satisfying ending to Kazuma Kiryus story.
As a result, the game took away screen time from its other fan favorite characters like Goro Majima.
Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2017)
Yakuza Kiwami 2is a remake of the second main entry in the franchise.
Without a doubt, the remake does not disappoint.
Beyond refining graphics and combat styles, Sega went further to introduce a new city in addition to Kamurocho.
Additionally, the game adds a new story for the fan-favorite Majima Goro.
Fans and critics alike commend Yakuza Kiwami 2 for refining its previously confusing storylines.
The game allows players to try their hands on a remake matching the standards of todays game play mechanics.
On the downside, Yakuza Kiwami 2 falls short on its attempt to remake Yakuza 2s shortcomings.
Therefore, Kiryus accomplishment may seem insignificant to later editions and the final chapters a little rushed.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)
Segas latest eighth release of the Yakuza franchise ranks highly.
Mainly because of its innovation in introducing anew protagonist and advancing its combat style.
You will experience a full-on role playing game style with a new turn-based combat system.
You will also develop your ultimate team of secondary heroes with unique skills and abilities.
Like a Dragon also features a new setting that shifts the franchise to Yokohama and Isezaki Ijincho.
Yakuza 0 (2015)
Yakuza 0is probably the entry that introduced you to the franchise.
Yakuza 0 was first released in Japan.
Fans and critics alike praised the detail in the games Tokyo of 1988.
It inspired the low beginnings of popular Kiryu Kazumas life as a debt-collector and his nemesis, Goro Majima.
So there you go, the five best Yakuza games of all time, ranked.
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When not writing, he can be found playing video games or watching F1.