Yakuza Games Order Guide: Expert Timeline

The Yakuza franchise stands as one of gaming’s most compelling story-driven experiences, blending intense narrative drama with visceral combat and quirky side activities. Whether you’re a newcomer curious about where to start or a returning player planning your journey through Kamurocho and beyond, understanding the Yakuza games in order is essential for maximum enjoyment. This comprehensive guide breaks down the entire franchise timeline, helping you experience the stories exactly as their creators intended.

With over two decades of gaming history, the Yakuza series has evolved from a niche PlayStation 2 title into a global phenomenon. The franchise masterfully weaves Japanese crime drama with heartfelt character development, creating unforgettable moments that resonate long after the credits roll. Each game builds upon previous entries while introducing new mechanics and deepening the lore of Japan’s criminal underworld.

Chronological Release Order

Understanding the release chronology helps contextualize how the series evolved mechanically and narratively. The franchise debuted on PlayStation 2 in 2005 and has since expanded across multiple platforms including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Here’s the definitive release timeline:

• Yakuza (2005) – Original PS2 title, Japan-exclusive initially
• Yakuza 2 (2006) – PS2 sequel
• Yakuza 3 (2009) – PS3 exclusive
• Yakuza 4 (2010) – PS3 title with multiple protagonists
• Yakuza 5 (2012) – PS3 exclusive, Japan-only for years
• Yakuza 0 (2015) – Prequel, PS4/PS3
• Yakuza Kiwami (2016) – PS4 remake of original
• Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2018) – PS4 remake of Yakuza 2
• Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (2018) – PS4 exclusive
• Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020) – PS4/Xbox/PC, turn-based combat revolution
• Yakuza: Infinite Wealth (2024) – Latest mainline entry

Story Timeline Explanation

The Yakuza narrative spans decades of Japanese organized crime history. The story timeline differs significantly from release order, which can confuse newcomers. The actual chronological story progression begins in 1980 with Yakuza 0, establishing the foundations of major character relationships and the Tojo Clan’s power structure.

From 1980 to 2006, the main timeline covers transformative periods in the lives of Kazuma Kiryu, Haruka Sawamura, and countless other characters. Understanding this single-player gaming experience requires patience with the overarching narrative, as each entry builds upon previous revelations. The series masterfully employs flashbacks, character returns, and plot twists that reward longtime fans while remaining accessible to newcomers.

The narrative complexity intensifies as the series progresses, with Yakuza 4 introducing multiple playable protagonists whose stories interweave. By Yakuza 5, the plot reaches epic proportions, exploring the consequences of previous games’ events across Japan’s major cities. The shift to turn-based combat in Like a Dragon signals not just mechanical evolution but narrative maturation as well.

Where to Start Playing

This question divides the community, with valid arguments for multiple starting points. For newcomers, we recommend either Yakuza 0 or Yakuza: Like a Dragon. Yakuza 0 serves as a prequel requiring no prior knowledge while introducing the franchise’s tone perfectly. Like a Dragon modernizes the formula with turn-based combat, making it accessible to players unfamiliar with real-time brawling systems.

If you’re interested in cooperative gaming experiences, note that mainline Yakuza games focus on single-player narratives, though some spin-offs offer multiplayer elements. The franchise prioritizes story over competitive gameplay, making it ideal for dedicated narrative enthusiasts.

For returning fans of the PS2 era, playing the Kiwami remakes offers modernized versions of the classics with updated graphics and mechanics. These remakes preserve the original stories while making them feel contemporary. However, jumping directly to Yakuza 0 provides superior production values and a fresh entry point.

Original Series (PS2 Era)

The PlayStation 2 trilogy—Yakuza, Yakuza 2, and Yakuza 3—established the franchise’s core identity. These games follow Kazuma Kiryu’s journey from an idealistic yakuza to a reluctant protector of those he loves. The original game introduces Kamurocho, a fictionalized Tokyo district that becomes the series’ spiritual home.

Yakuza introduces the Dragon of Dojima, establishing Kiryu’s legendary status within the criminal underworld. The story explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the cost of living by the yakuza code. Yakuza 2 deepens this narrative, introducing the Kansai yakuza and expanding the world beyond Kamurocho. Yakuza 3 shifts focus to Okinawa, exploring Kiryu’s desire for a peaceful life while being inexorably drawn back into conflict.

These original entries feature real-time combat with satisfying impact and brutal finishing moves. The side activities, though simpler than modern entries, establish the series’ signature blend of serious storytelling and absurd diversions. Mini-games ranging from karaoke to pachinko provide perfect tonal breaks from the heavy narrative.

Modern Entries and Remakes

Yakuza 0 revolutionized how players experienced the franchise. Released in 2015, this prequel covers 1980 Japan, before Kiryu’s rise to prominence. The game explores the yakuza world during its golden age, featuring Kiryu and Goro Majima as dual protagonists. Their contrasting perspectives create a richer understanding of the series’ themes.

The Kiwami remakes deserve special attention. Yakuza Kiwami (2016) and Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2018) reconstruct the first two games using Yakuza 0’s engine. This modernization makes the originals feel contemporary without compromising their stories. These remakes are ideal for players wanting to experience the definitive versions of Kiryu’s earliest adventures.

Yakuza 4 introduces multiple protagonists—Kazuma Kiryu, Taiga Saejima, Shun Akiyama, and Masayoshi Tanimura—whose individual stories converge spectacularly. This structure deepens the Tojo Clan lore and explores different facets of yakuza life. Yakuza 5 continues this approach, expanding the playable cast and scale of the narrative.

Yakuza 6: The Song of Life marks a significant shift toward modernization. Released exclusively on PS4, it features enhanced graphics and refined combat mechanics. The story brings Kiryu’s primary arc toward conclusion, focusing on his relationship with Haruka and his role as a father figure.

Infinite Wealth and Beyond

Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020) represents the franchise’s most dramatic evolution. The introduction of turn-based combat shocked longtime fans, yet the new system feels natural and strategic. This entry introduces Ichiban Kasuga as the new protagonist, passing the torch from Kiryu while maintaining narrative connections to the original series.

Like a Dragon expands the setting to include Honolulu, Hawaii, broadening the franchise’s geographical scope. The story explores themes of identity, second chances, and found family. Ichiban’s optimism contrasts sharply with Kiryu’s stoicism, offering a refreshing perspective on yakuza life.

Yakuza: Infinite Wealth (2024) continues Ichiban’s journey, introducing new locations and deepening relationships established in Like a Dragon. This latest mainline entry confirms the franchise’s direction toward turn-based combat while maintaining the signature blend of serious storytelling and eccentric side content. For those building a gaming PC specifically for these experiences, check out our gaming PC build guide for optimal performance recommendations.

The modern entries showcase remarkable production values. Character animations, environmental detail, and cinematography rival major Hollywood productions. Voice acting, particularly in English localization, has reached exceptional quality levels. These improvements make the narrative-heavy Yakuza experience more immersive than ever.

Side Games and Spin-offs

Beyond the mainline series, numerous spin-offs expand the Yakuza universe. Yakuza 0: The Business explores Kazuya Akiyama’s money-lending enterprise through a strategic gameplay lens. Judgement series (Judgement and Lost Judgment) features Takayuki Yagami, a disbarred lawyer investigating crimes in Kamurocho. These detective-focused games maintain Yakuza’s storytelling excellence while offering different gameplay mechanics.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon—Ishin! remakes the historical spin-off set during Japan’s Bakumatsu period. Like a Dragon: Gaiden—The Man Who Erased His Name provides a side story featuring Kiryu during his years away from the spotlight. Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has demonstrated remarkable versatility in expanding the franchise beyond traditional yakuza narratives.

These spin-offs range in importance to the overall canon. Some serve as optional content providing additional context, while others significantly impact mainline story understanding. Before diving into spin-offs, complete the primary series to fully appreciate their narrative significance.

Similar to exploring indie gaming alternatives, spin-offs offer unique experiences within the established universe. They experiment with different genres—detective work, business simulation, historical drama—while maintaining the franchise’s narrative quality.

FAQ

What’s the best order to play all Yakuza games?

For maximum narrative impact, play in this order: Yakuza 0, Yakuza Kiwami, Yakuza Kiwami 2, Yakuza 3, Yakuza 4, Yakuza 5, Yakuza 6, then Yakuza: Like a Dragon and Yakuza: Infinite Wealth. This follows the story chronologically while incorporating modern remakes for superior presentation.

Can I start with Yakuza: Like a Dragon?

Yes! Like a Dragon features a new protagonist and story arc, making it accessible to newcomers. However, you’ll miss context about Kazuma Kiryu and the Tojo Clan’s history. For maximum appreciation, experience at least Yakuza 0 and Kiwami first.

Are the Kiwami remakes worth playing?

Absolutely. Kiwami and Kiwami 2 modernize the original stories with contemporary graphics, improved combat, and refined mechanics. If you’ve played the originals, they’re still worthwhile for experiencing the updated presentation. For newcomers, they’re the definitive versions.

Do I need to play spin-offs?

Spin-offs enhance your understanding but aren’t mandatory. Judgement series stands alone excellently. Like a Dragon: Gaiden provides valuable context for Infinite Wealth. Start with mainline entries; explore spin-offs based on interest.

Which platform should I play on?

Modern Yakuza games are available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. PC versions offer superior graphics and performance. PlayStation versions provide the full experience with all features. Choose based on your preferred platform—the stories remain equally compelling.

How long does the complete series take?

Completing all mainline games requires approximately 200-300 hours depending on completion percentage. Individual games range from 30-50 hours. Many players enjoy completing side content, extending playtime significantly.

What makes Yakuza games special?

The franchise combines cinematic storytelling with interactive gameplay, creating emotional investment in characters and their journeys. The tonal balance between serious drama and absurd humor makes the series uniquely memorable. Few franchises achieve such narrative depth while maintaining accessibility.