11 Best Yakuza Games in 2026: The Ultimate Guide for Fans
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Yakuza 0 is the best starting point for anyone new to the series. It combines a gripping origin story with fast brawler combat and vibrant 1980s Japanese streets, which sets up the rest of the franchise perfectly
The best Yakuza game captures everything fans love about the series: intense action, deep storytelling, and unforgettable characters set in Japan’s criminal underworld.
This guide ranks the standout entries based on story, gameplay, and lasting impact, which makes it an easy entry point for newcomers and a nostalgic trip for veterans.
Each game on this list has its own energy and reason to revisit, showing how the series evolved from humble beginnings to a modern cult favorite. Keep scrolling, and you’ll see which titles truly define the Yakuza legacy.
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Our Top Picks for Yakuza Games
Among all the available games you can download and play right now, there are a few top options to highlight. Check out the selection of the top 10 games and keep reading to learn more.
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Buy nowYakuza 0 2015The perfect starting point for anyone diving into the series. Set in 1980s Japan, it follows Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima before they became legends. Yakuza 0 captures everything that makes the franchise iconic: style, chaos, and emotional depth.
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Buy nowLike a Dragon: Infinite Wealth 2024Ichiban Kasuga returns for his wildest adventure yet, this time across Japan and Hawaii. The turn-based combat gets deeper, the world feels bigger, and the humor never lets up.
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Buy nowYakuza Kiwami 2 2018A full remake of Yakuza 2, built on the stunning Dragon Engine. Kiryu faces Ryuuji Goda, a fierce rival aiming to unite the Yakuza under one banner. The story hits hard, the combat feels smoother than ever, and the side activities make it impossible to put down.
Each of these picks shows why the Yakuza series stands out: gritty stories, wild action, and characters you won’t forget. If you’re ready to explore how the rest of the series stacks up, keep reading to discover where each game shines and which one deserves the top spot.
How We Ranked the Best Yakuza Games
Ranking the Yakuza games isn’t easy because every entry brings a wild mix of gritty crime drama and hilarious side content. We evaluated each title based on narrative depth alongside combat mechanics, while keeping newcomer friendliness in mind for players jumping in for the first time.
Overall replay value and series importance played huge roles in our choices too, since minigames and side stories give these games their unique flavor. We looked at how each release holds up today so you get the absolute best recommendations.
11 Best Yakuza Games Every Fan Should Play
Almost every game in the Yakuza series tells the story of members of the Japanese mafia. These are truly wild stories that resonate well with players who enjoy such action-packed genres. You can expect a complex plot, intense fights, and, beneath it all, deep and emotional narratives.
1. Yakuza 0 [Best Yakuza Game for New Players]
| Our Score | Enebameter 10/10
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| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2015 (Japan), 2017 (Worldwide) |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~30 hrs |
Yakuza 0 is the perfect starting point for newcomers who haven’t played any of the series’ games yet. This game tells the backstory of the events in the earlier parts, showing the young Kiryu and Majima as they start their criminal paths in the Yakuza. It features one of the most gripping stories, full of intrigue, betrayals, and unexpected twists.
The gameplay is also quite diverse, with various fighting styles that you can switch between during battles. There’s also a large world, with numerous side quests and even the chance to manage your own nightclub.
Thanks to a strong storyline, spectacular fights, and an incredible 1980s atmosphere, Yakuza 0 can be considered one of the best games in the series. It’s one of those games where every minute of gameplay is meant to be fully enjoyed, and even the side missions are worth completing.
My Verdict: Yakuza 0 is the purest entry point for anyone curious about the series. It’s bold, stylish, and full of energy, the perfect gateway to everything that makes this franchise unforgettable.
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2. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth [Best Yakuza Game for Open-World Exploration]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.5/10
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| Platforms | PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2024 |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~57 hrs |
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth expands Ichiban Kasuga’s journey as he travels across sunny Hawaii alongside Kazuma Kiryu. Sega officially dropped the Yakuza name in favor of Like a Dragon to match its Japanese title, Ryu Ga Gotoku, which marks a fresh chapter for the franchise.
Turn-based combat returns with much deeper tactical freedom, so you can freely move party members around the battlefield and use environmental objects for hilarious knockback attacks. Exploring the streets of Honolulu brings huge open areas filled with fun mini-games alongside wild side quests.
The massive story balances absurd humor with heavy emotional beats, especially as Kiryu reflects on his past achievements and relationships. Fans will love seeing familiar faces return while new characters bring fresh energy to the plot.
My Verdict: Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth hits peak open-world chaos and charm. It stands as a rewarding RPG adventure made for players who crave massive worlds and emotional story payoffs.
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3. Yakuza Kiwami 2 [Best Yakuza Remake]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.7/10
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| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2018 |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~18 hrs |
Yakuza Kiwami 2 brings serious visual polish through the Dragon Engine, so playing on Xbox Series X/S or PC gives you smooth performance during heavy action scenes. This full remake rebuilds the classic Yakuza 2 storyline for modern gaming platforms with impressive graphical detail and seamless cutscenes.
Battle encounters feel punchy due to heavy Heat Actions and destructible environment objects, while street brawls happen seamlessly without loading screens as you explore both Kamurocho and Sotenbori. You can easily throw enemies through shop windows or grab heavy bicycles during street fights.
Kazuma Kiryu goes head-to-head with Ryuji Goda, who stands out as a fierce rival trying to unite the underworld under his own banner. This intense rivalry keeps the narrative engaging throughout the campaign, while side activities like the Cabaret Club Grand Prix add tons of fun depth.
Exploring neon streets leads to hilarious side quests alongside entertaining karaoke minigames, which helps balance out the dark crime drama when you need a quick break.
My Verdict: Yakuza Kiwami 2 hits all the right notes for a modern remake because it combines tight brawling with impressive Dragon Engine visuals for a memorable experience.
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4. Yakuza: Like a Dragon [Best Yakuza Game for Turn-Based Combat]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9.2/10
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| Platforms | PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2020 |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~45 hrs |
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is not just another game in the series, but a true revolution. Unlike other games that used a real-time combat system, here you’re offered a turn-based combat style. Ichiban Kasuga, the new main character, attracts attention with his charisma and complex backstory, which hooks you from the first moments.
Like a Dragon also boasts many new characters, as well as a completely unique mechanic – instead of the usual fighting styles, each character can use special “classes,” just like in role-playing games, which adds a strategic element to the gameplay.
The city of Isezuki, where all the events take place, is full of mini-games and side activities. If you’re looking for a game with a deep story, this is the one for you. This game is perfect for players who want to experience one of the best RPG games in the Dragon game universe.
My Verdict: Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a wild shift that actually works; a heartfelt RPG rebirth that keeps the series’ soul alive. Perfect for anyone who loves strategy and story in equal measure.
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5. Yakuza Kiwami [Best for Classic Yakuza Fans]
| Our Score | Enebameter 9/10
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| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2016 (Japan), 2017 (Worldwide) |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~18 hrs |
Yakuza Kiwami is a remake of the original game, where the developers updated the graphics, worked on the gameplay, and added some additional scenes to provide a better story immersion. Relive the events of the first game, but with a more modern treatment. Discover all the moments of Kiryu’s legendary story.
One of the key features is the introduction of the Majima Everywhere system, which allows Majima to attack Kiryu at any moment. This keeps players on their toes, always having to watch for combat and adapt to what’s happening on screen.
If you love powerful stories, charismatic characters, and spectacular fights, Yakuza Kiwami is a great choice.
My Verdict: Yakuza Kiwami captures the raw spirit of the original with modern polish. It’s ideal for players who want the classic crime drama experience in its sharpest form.
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6. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life [Best Yakuza Game for a Satisfying Conclusion]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.8/10
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| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2016 (Japan), 2018 (Worldwide) |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~18 hrs |
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life is one of the most emotionally charged games in the series. Here, Kiryu’s story reaches its climax, and his past collides with the present. It’s a true, gripping, and emotional crime drama. The game can easily be classified as one of the best story games. The plot revolves around his adoptive daughter Haruka, and this time, the stakes are incredibly high.
The gameplay is even smoother thanks to the Dragon Engine, the fights are more spectacular, with improved and realistic physics, and there’s the ability to interact with the environment. Several unexpected mechanics have also been added, such as the option to hire a gang of fighters for large-scale street brawls with rivals. Kamurocho and the new city of Hiroshima are meticulously detailed. If you’re interested in Kiryu’s complete story, skipping this chapter is simply impossible.
My Verdict: Yakuza 6 is a powerful and emotional finale to Kiryu’s saga. It’s a mature, heartfelt sendoff that rewards every player who’s been there from the start.
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7. Yakuza 5 [Best Large-Scale Storytelling Yakuza Game]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.6/10
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| Platforms | PS3, PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2012 (Japan), 2015 (Worldwide) |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~36 hrs |
One of the most ambitious parts of the series that I had played. The main feature is the journey across five Japanese cities, each with its own cultural characteristics and atmosphere. The game also has a storyline that is told from the perspective of several characters, each with their own story and motivation for their actions. The characters also differ in their combat mechanics – each hero has a unique style that players need to adapt to.
The game is a true quintessence between the spin-offs and the main series entries. It offers powerful gameplay with free roam elements, lots of mini-games, unique fighting styles for each character, and an insane amount of content. It’s not just a game, but a whole world worth exploring.
My Verdict: Yakuza 5 is pure chaos in the best way possible: massive in scale, rich in character, and packed with stories worth chasing across every city.
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8. Yakuza 4 [Best Yakuza Game for Multiple Playable Characters]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.4/10
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| Platforms | PS3, PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2010 (Japan), 2011 (Worldwide) |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~20 hrs |
Yakuza 4 is one of the most interesting games in the series, both in my opinion and according to others who’ve already had the chance to play it. Unlike earlier releases, here you’re offered the chance to control 4 completely different characters for the first time. There are other new features as well – a completely revamped storytelling system, a new combat system. The developers successfully managed to unite 4 unique stories into one whole plot with its twists and nuances.
If you want to see how the story of the Japanese mafia unfolds from different points of view and dive into a crime drama with several main characters, Yakuza 4 will be an excellent choice.
My Verdict: Yakuza 4 shakes things up with multiple perspectives and intertwining plots. It’s a must-play for fans who love deep storytelling and layered character arcs.
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9. Yakuza 3: Remastered [Best Yakuza Game for Emotional Storytelling]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8.3/10
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| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2019 (remaster), 2009 (original) |
| Creator/s | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~20 hrs |
When I started Yakuza 3: Remastered, it felt like I was returning to the very beginning of Kiryu’s story. This installment stands out from other Yakuza games because it offers not only the usual criminal gang conflicts of the Yakuza but also Kiryu’s personal, emotional journey. Trying to leave his past behind, he runs an orphanage in Okinawa. But escaping from his criminal past is not as easy as it might seem at first.
From a gameplay perspective, the game feels somewhat outdated compared to the newer Dragon series titles, but it’s still quite engaging. The world is filled with side quests, and there are returning characters from other games in the series, making it a solid addition to the list of the best open-world games.
If you’re interested in diving into the entire series from a chronological perspective, this remaster is a great choice.
My Verdict: Yakuza 3: Remastered is the calm between storms; a slower, more personal look at Kiryu’s life that hits hard emotionally.
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10. Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name [Best Return to Classic Yakuza Combat]
| Our Score | Enebameter 8/10
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| Platforms | PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Creator/s | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~12 hrs |
Like a Dragon Gaiden is an interesting addition to the Yakuza universe, focusing on the return of a character from previous games – Kazuma Kiryu. Unlike the main Like a Dragon, this game brings us back to the traditional combat style using a real-time system. In the end, we have a classic game but with modern graphics.
One of the features of this game is its unique combination of old and new elements. Fighting styles are also present here, but now they are adapted to the new story and challenges.
Like a Dragon Gaiden perfectly recreates the old atmosphere of the series, combining it with new characters and an exciting plot. Fans of the series will definitely enjoy this part as well.
My Verdict: Like a Dragon Gaiden is an appreciation of classic Yakuza combat wrapped in modern flair. It’s short, sharp, and perfect for fans who’ve missed Kiryu’s fists.
11. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii [Best Spin-Off Yakuza Game]
| Our Score | Enebameter 7.9/10
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| Platforms | PS5, Xbox X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2025 |
| Creator | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Average playtime | ~17 hrs |
When I started the latest Yakuza game in the series: Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, it felt like a completely unexpected journey. This incredible pirate game stands out from other Yakuza games because it offers naval battles, one of the best pirate game mechanics available, and Majima’s personal, chaotic journey.
Washing up on a mysterious island with amnesia, he becomes a pirate captain navigating the waters around Hawaii. But escaping his past is never as simple as it seems.
From a gameplay perspective, the pirate mechanics feel fresh compared to previous titles. The world is filled with unique side quests, naval battles, and unexpected character interactions, making it a welcome addition to the Like a Dragon universe. The ability to recruit crew members and upgrade your ship adds depth to the traditional Yakuza formula.
If you’re interested in the latest and most outlandish spin-off in the series, this pirate adventure won’t disappoint.
My Verdict: Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is pure chaos at sea: wild, stylish, and weirdly brilliant. It’s a bold experiment that proves this series still knows how to surprise.
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In What Order Should You Play Yakuza Games?
If you’re jumping into the Yakuza game series for the first time, playing in chronological order makes sense if you’re new to the franchise. You’ll catch all the character arcs and callbacks without feeling lost.
If you want to experience the series as a long-time fan, release order is also fun because you can see how Yakuza evolved in gameplay and story over the years. Either way, you’re in for a wild ride through Kamurocho.
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Yakuza Kiwami (remake of the first game) |
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Best Yakuza Spin-Offs: Judgment & Lost Judgment
If you want a cool detective twist set on Kamurocho’s neon streets, Judgment and Lost Judgment are must-play spin-offs from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio. These games follow private investigator Takayuki Yagami as he cracks dark murder cases with martial arts alongside clever street detective work.
Judgment kicks things off with a gritty legal thriller storyline packed with crime scene investigations and parkour chases. Its sequel, Lost Judgment, builds on that base by adding smoother combat styles alongside expanded high school side stories that keep things super entertaining.
Both titles bring a fresh vibe while keeping the fast real-time brawling that long-time fans love. They stand out as top recommendations if you want to explore crime drama from a lawyer-turned-detective’s point of view.
My Overall Verdict on the Best Yakuza Games
Every Yakuza game hits a different note, and that’s what makes this series legendary. Some entries shine for their emotional storytelling, while others pull you in with wild brawls or fresh mechanics. No matter what kind of player you are, there’s a perfect starting point in Kamurocho’s neon chaos:
- For newcomers who want the true origin story → Yakuza 0. It’s the ideal starting point, packed with heart, drama, and the best mix of action and humor the series ever had.
- For fans craving a classic return to form → Like a Dragon Gaiden. It’s the modern bridge between eras, mixing the old real-time combat with slick presentation and a focused narrative around Kiryu.
- For those who love character-driven stories with real emotion → Yakuza 3. It slows things down, giving you a deeper, more personal look at Kiryu’s softer side as he tries to leave crime behind.
- For story-focused players who want closure and cinematic scale → Yakuza 6: The Song of Life. It’s a heartfelt finale that ties together years of loyalty, family, and sacrifice.
Each of these games captures a different side of what makes Yakuza unforgettable; drama, grit, humor, and heart.
FAQs
The best Yakuza game is Yakuza 0. It’s the perfect starting point for newcomers, a compelling story of Kiryu and Majima’s early years in the criminal world. With engaging combat, memorable characters, and a vibrant 1980s setting, Yakuza 0 guarantees an unforgettable Yakuza experience.
The best option for newcomers is Yakuza 0. It’s a prequel to the entire series, where you can get familiar with the story, characters, and key mechanics of the franchise. Additionally, the game offers one of the most engaging storylines, diverse fighting styles, and a rich crime drama gameplay experience.
The longest game in the series is Yakuza 5. Due to having five main protagonists and multiple cities, the story campaign can take over 50 hours to complete, and doing all the side activities can take more than 100 hours.
The most controversial game in the series is Yakuza: Dead Souls. It’s a zombie spin-off that radically differs from the main series and received mixed reviews due to weak shooting mechanics, a mediocre storyline, and the absence of traditional combat mechanics.
Yakuza 5 offers the largest in-game area. Unlike other parts, it features five cities, including Kamurocho, Sapporo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka. This makes it the most expansive game in the series in terms of open-world size.
Chronological order works best for most new players. Starting with Yakuza 0 and following the numeric releases lets you watch Kazuma Kiryu’s character arc unfold naturally over time.
