The Yakuza series, developed by SEGA, is renowned for its deep storytelling, complex characters, and vivid portrayal of the Japanese underworld. This article will guide you through the Yakuza games in order, providing insights into their plots, characters, and development over the years. Whether you’re a newcomer or a returning fan, understanding the order can greatly enhance your experience of the interconnected stories and evolving gameplay.

Introduction to the Yakuza Series

The Yakuza series began in 2005 on the PlayStation 2, offering players an action-packed adventure through the fictional yet remarkably life-like district of Kamurocho, a stand-in for Tokyo’s real-life Kabukichō. The games are centered around the experiences of Kazuma Kiryu, an ex-yakuza who often finds himself dragged back into the conflicts of the criminal underworld.

The Mainline Yakuza Games in Order

1. Yakuza (2005)
   • Plot: The story starts with Kazuma Kiryu being sent to prison for a crime he didn’t commit to protect his friend. Upon release, he finds that much has changed and is drawn back into the conflicts of his past.
   • Gameplay: Combines deep narrative with beat-em-up mechanics, introducing players to the core elements that define the series.
2. Yakuza 2 (2006)
   • Plot: Kiryu faces the Korean mafia and a brewing war between the eastern and western yakuza clans, diving deeper into his complex relationships and the yakuza code of honor.
   • Enhancements: Improved graphics and combat systems, providing a more fluid gaming experience.
3. Yakuza 3 (2009)
   • Plot: Now running an orphanage in Okinawa, Kiryu is forced to confront his past to protect his new life and the children he cares for.
   • Features: Expanded play areas including the Ryukyu Islands and more in-depth side activities.
4. Yakuza 4 (2010)
   • Plot: Introduces multiple playable characters with interlocking stories, providing different perspectives on the game’s central mysteries.
   • Diversity: Players experience the narrative from different viewpoints, enhancing depth and replay value.
5. Yakuza 5 (2012)
   • Plot: An epic sprawl across five cities, offering the most expansive narrative in the series, exploring dreams, the cost of fame, and the relentless nature of the past catching up to the present.
   • Scale: Features five playable protagonists and significantly broadens its scope in gameplay and story.
6. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (2016)
   • Plot: Kiryu’s final chapter, which sees him dealing with the complications of fatherhood and his attempts to escape the life that forever entangles him.
   • Technology: Utilizes the new Dragon Engine, allowing for seamless transitions between combat and exploration.
7. Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)
   • Plot: A departure from Kiryu’s story, this game introduces a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, with a turn-based combat system that pays homage to classic RPGs.
   • Innovation: The shift in protagonist and gameplay marks a new era for the Yakuza series.

Why Play the Yakuza Series in Order?

Playing the Yakuza games in order allows you to experience the evolution of the story and its characters naturally. Each game builds upon the last, enhancing the player’s attachment to the characters and their understanding of the complex world they inhabit. Moreover, watching the game mechanics evolve over time adds a layer of appreciation for the series’ growth in scope and ambition.

Conclusion

The Yakuza series offers a unique blend of storytelling, action, and exploration, set against the vibrant backdrop of Japan’s urban landscape. With its rich narratives and compelling characters, the series has established itself as a beloved franchise in the gaming world. Playing the Yakuza games in order not only provides hours of entertainment but also a deeper understanding of the themes of loyalty, honor, and the personal cost of a life of crime.