Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games in Chronological Order:
This article outlines the Yakuza/Like a Dragon games in their chronological order of events, ideal for players who want to experience the series’ narrative arc correctly. We’ve included a brief overview of each game, highlighting key plot points, protagonists, and antagonists. This guide avoids redundancy and offers a fresh perspective on the series’ rich history.
1. Yakuza 0 (2014)
Yakuza 0, released in 2014, marks the first chronological entry in the Yakuza series, even though it was the sixth game released. Players step into the shoes of a young Kazuma Kiryu, embroiled in the turbulent 1980s, during a period of rapid economic growth. Alongside, Goro Majima, a former yakuza member, navigates the underbelly of Tokyo. The game focuses on the plot surrounding the acquisition of a crucial piece of land (the Empty Lot), leading to various conflicts and character interactions that set the stage for future Yakuza events.
2. Yakuza (2005) / Yakuza Kiwami (2016)
This game, originally released in 2005 and later remade as Yakuza Kiwami in 2016, thrusts players into the world of Kazuma Kiryu, who finds himself unjustly imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. Kiryu’s journey involves facing betrayal, loss, and the lingering shadow of a past murder. The game intricately connects to the themes of loyalty, redemption, and the challenges of the Japanese yakuza culture.
3. Yakuza 2 (2006) / Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2017)
Following Yakuza, Yakuza 2, and its 2017 remake, Kiwami 2, delves into a new set of conflicts and challenges for Kazuma Kiryu. The game explores themes of peace, war, and survival amidst the complexities of the yakuza underworld. This installment further develops the established relationships between key characters and introduces new antagonists, adding depth to the narrative. Kiryu confronts challenges in maintaining peace and order within the yakuza families, and he encounters new mysteries about the past.
4. Yakuza 3 (2009)
Yakuza 3, released in 2009, takes Kiryu on a significant detour, shifting the setting from Kamurocho to Okinawa. The game delves into the protagonist’s new life after leaving the yakuza and his struggles with newfound responsibilities and personal growth. This involves a new chapter for Kiryu, marked by a new perspective on life and the challenges of leaving a past he can’t escape.
5. Yakuza 4 (2010)
Yakuza 4, released in 2010, expands on the narrative, introducing four playable characters including Kiryu, exploring the intertwining destinies of individuals caught in the web of crime and familial obligations within the yakuza world. The game delves into diverse characters’ struggles, highlighting the interconnectedness of various yakuza families and their conflicts.
6. Yakuza 5 (2012)
Yakuza 5, released in 2012, features five different protagonists each with their unique story and motivations. The narrative intertwines their separate paths, drawing the players into a complex tapestry of conflicts, betrayals, and interpersonal dynamics within the criminal underworld. The game expands on the world-building aspect, introducing new locations and challenges for the protagonists, and exploring the complexities of their lives.
7. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (2016)
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life, released in 2016, serves as a culmination of Kiryu’s journey. It sees Kiryu grappling with his past, facing unexpected setbacks, and confronting his enemies in a final stand. The game explores themes of legacy, responsibility, and the bittersweet nature of closure.
8. Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)
Yakuza: Like a Dragon, released in 2020, marks a significant shift in the series, introducing a new protagonist and gameplay style. Players experience Ichiban Kasuga’s journey as a character who is also unjustly imprisoned for a crime he did not commit and is forced to start his life over. The game introduces a turn-based combat system and explores themes of ambition and justice in a new way. This installment also explores themes of societal change and societal values.
9. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024)
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, released in 2024, continues the story of Ichiban Kasuga’s and brings Kiryu back into the spotlight. This game explores new conflicts, with a global scope and unique characters. It explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the impact of societal changes.
How to Play the Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games by Release Date
- Yakuza (2005) / Yakuza Kiwami (2016)
- Yakuza 2 (2006) / Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2017)
- Yakuza 3 (2009)
- Yakuza 4 (2010)
- Yakuza 5 (2012)
- Yakuza 0 (2015)
- Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (2016)
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024)
How Many Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games Are There?
The Yakuza/Like a Dragon franchise includes 9 main games, with the addition of 2 critically acclaimed remakes and a growing number of spin-offs, with each adding complexity and depth to the overall narrative. The franchise boasts a diverse range of games, exploring various themes and contexts within the Yakuza world. There are multiple spin-off titles that explore different themes and settings, and with a rich history, the series offers something for every fan.
What’s Next for Yakuza/Like a Dragon?
With Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth proving a major hit, the future looks bright for the series. A new entry is in the works, which is expected to be revealed at a major gaming event in September. This new game is expected to further expand the franchise’s rich world and characters, bringing new challenges and experiences to the gameplay and narrative.
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