The Yakuza/Like a Dragon saga: A chronological journey through the sprawling crime drama.
Originally launched in 2005 for PlayStation 2, the Yakuza series (rebranded as Like a Dragon in 2022) has captivated players with its blend of action, melodrama, cinematic flair, and quirky humor. The series, set in the fictional Kamurocho district of Tokyo, follows the intertwined lives and conflicts of various yakuza families. While initially gaining popularity primarily in Japan, the franchise has achieved global recognition through consistent releases of localized versions, spin-offs, and new installments, including the recent Majima-centric spin-off, Like a Dragon: Pirate of the Caribbean.
Yakuza Games in Chronological Order
How Many Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games Exist?
Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have produced a substantial library: nine mainline Yakuza/Like a Dragon titles, two remakes (Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2, with a third planned), and eleven spin-offs since 2005. Initially PlayStation exclusives, the games have expanded to Xbox and PC platforms, with all new entries since Yakuza: Like a Dragon launching simultaneously across multiple systems (excluding Nintendo Switch until the October 2024 release of Yakuza Kiwami on Switch, as announced during the August 2024 Nintendo Direct).
Beyond the core games, the Like a Dragon universe boasts a diverse range of spin-offs. Kurohyō: Ryu ga Gotoku Shinsho and its sequel feature Tatsuya Ukyo, a new protagonist. The Judgment series introduces Takayuki Yagami, a lawyer-turned-detective whose investigations intersect with the Tojo Clan. Yakuza: Dead Souls offers a zombie-infested twist, while Yakuza Online is a free-to-play mobile and PC card game. Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise incorporates the Yakuza gameplay style into the popular manga franchise. Ryu ga Gotoku Kenzan! and Ryu ga Gotoku Ishin! (released in the West as Like a Dragon: Ishin! in 2023) are set in historical Japan. Like a Dragon: The Man Who Erased His Name (2023) bridges the gap between Yakuza 6 and Yakuza: Like a Dragon. The latest addition, Like a Dragon: Pirate of the Caribbean, stars Goro Majima.
Where to Begin Your Yakuza Journey?
For newcomers, starting with Yakuza 0 or Yakuza: Like a Dragon provides excellent entry points.
Yakuza Kiwami
New players or those familiar with Yakuza 0 will appreciate the refined controls, high-quality localization, and solid foundation for experiencing the franchise.
Mainline Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games (Chronological Order):
Yakuza 0 Yakuza / Yakuza Kiwami Yakuza 2 / Yakuza Kiwami 2 Yakuza 3 Yakuza 4 Yakuza 5 Yakuza 6: The Song of Life Yakuza: Like a Dragon Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
(Note: Minor spoilers for plot points and characters may follow.)
(Detailed summaries of each game would follow here, mirroring the structure and information provided in the original text, but paraphrased for originality.)
All Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games and Spin-offs (Release Order):
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What's Next for Yakuza/Like a Dragon?
The Like a Dragon narrative is far from concluded. While Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth concluded its own arc, its ending hints at future installments. Announcements regarding new mainline or spin-off games are anticipated following the release of Like a Dragon: Pirate of the Caribbean.
(The concluding paragraphs about other game timelines would remain unchanged.)
