The Best ‘Yakuza’ Video Games Ranked
Whether you’re a long time fan or entirely new to the series, there’s never a bad time to jump into one of these Yakuza games.
Yakuza: Judgement
This is more of a spinoff of Yakuza games, so many don’t consider it a true part of the series. But it absolutely takes place within the same world and general location as the rest of the games. You play detective Takayuki Yagami as he investigates a series of crimes throughout town. This brings him into contact with a series of Yakuza members throughout his investigation. Good writing, solid combat, and a well-crafted sense of mystery make this a fantastic addition to the franchise- even if it’s a little jarring to be on the other end of the law this time around.
Yakuza Kiwami
This game and its sequel, Kiwami 2 are both remakes of the first and second game in the series. But Kiwami is so much more than a one-for-one remake of an older game. This game is an evolution of an older pretty-good game, not only improving the technical aspects of gameplay but the plot as well. Characters who were one-dimensional before becoming their own fully fleshed-out individual and the mediocre crime drama is transformed into an engaging story about finding your way back in the world.
Yakuza Kiwami 2
Despite this being a “two,” it’s perfectly enjoyable as a standalone game. It’s also a remake of Yakuza 2 using the Dragon Engine, making for a smoother, and more refined feeling game. It takes a game that everybody already agreed was pretty darn good and brought it up to a more modern standard. But it’s also not entirely re-hashed and remade. There are new subplots and more features than in Yakuza 2. This game works as the next step in your organized crime adventures, or an introduction to the entire series and will give you an original experience whether you’ve come to the franchise for the first time or after playing through some of the older titles already.
Yakuza 0
Between its 80’s setting and its nature as a prequel, Yakuza 0 would be one of the best places for a new player to jump into the series. This is also the last game before the series switched over to the more advanced “Dragon Engine.” The story follows two playable characters both trying to make a name for themselves in the big scary world of organized crime. This one is a fan favorite with its complex storyline, high stakes, and campy feel, and is easily one of the most enjoyable games in the franchise.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
I know this isn’t the most popular Yakuza game. I know it’s different from the entire rest of the Yakuza series both in tone and design. But I genuinely believe this is one of the most fun games ever made. Unlike the rest of the series, it’s turn-based and the absolute ridiculousness that are the side quests, classes, and battle outfits make me wonder if 90% of everything in this game is happening in your character’s head. At one point you become president of the most powerful corporation in the country and then try not to sleep through art films by playing controller DDR while the REM-Rams try to lull you to snooze land. I recognize that this may all sound like nonsense. And it is. But it’s also one of the most enjoyable games and different games that I have ever encountered.
What is your favorite Yakuza game? Do you prefer more serious stories, or when things are able to go a little off of the wall? Which of the mechanics used by Yakuza over the years was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Happy Adventuring!
