Here is a list of all core entries of the Like a Dragon (Yakuza) series, in chronological order.
Like a Dragon, previously known as Yakuza, is an incredible franchise of mostly action-adventure beat-em-up titles that has expanded into RPGs over the years. It explores the trials and tribulations of the Japanese mafia, primarily through the eyes of the series protagonist Kazuma Kiryu.
There are a total of 23 entries in the Yakuza series, with 9 core entries. You do not need to play every title to understand the plot, but each title adds depth to the universe.
Almost every entry in the Yakuza series has received a remaster or remake. This article will list the updated versions as they are the definitive experience.
Yakuza 0
Core entry? : Yes
Order number: 1
| Initial Release Date | March 12, 2015 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 4 – PlayStation 3 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza 0 serves as a prequel to the long-running series. Set in 1988 Tokyo and Osaka, Yakuza 0 follows the intertwining stories of two protagonists, Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima, as they navigate the complex and dangerous world of organized crime.
The game is renowned for its compelling narrative, rich character development, and detailed open-world environments that authentically capture the atmosphere of Japan’s urban nightlife during the late ’80s.
Yakuza Kiwami
Core entry? : Yes
Order number: 2
| Initial Release Date | January 21, 2016 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 4 – PlayStation 3 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza Kiwami is a remake of the original Yakuza game, which was initially released in 2005 for the PlayStation 2. Yakuza Kiwami brings the classic title to modern platforms with enhanced graphics, gameplay improvements, and additional content.
The game follows the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a former member of the Yakuza who finds himself embroiled in a conspiracy involving a missing fortune and betrayal within the criminal underworld of Kamurocho.
As players navigate the bustling streets of the fictional Tokyo district, they engage in intense brawler-style combat, complete side quests, and experience a gripping narrative that explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and honor.
Yakuza Kiwami 2
Core entry? : Yes
Order number : 3
| Initial Release Date | December 7, 2017 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza Kiwami 2 is a remake of the original Yakuza 2, which was initially released in 2006 for PlayStation 2. The game modernizes and enhances the classic title.
Set in the fictional districts of Kamurocho and Sotenbori, Yakuza Kiwami 2 continues the saga of Kazuma Kiryu as he becomes entangled in a power struggle between two rival Yakuza clans.
The game not only boasts improved visuals and gameplay mechanics but also features additional content, sub-stories, and a new “Majima Saga” that explores the backstory of the fan-favorite character, Goro Majima.
Yakuza 3 Remastered
Core entry? : Yes
Order number : 4
| Initial Release Date | August 9, 2018 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza 3 Remastered is an updated version of the original Yakuza 3, which was initially released in 2009 for PlayStation 3. This remastered edition brings the classic title to modern platforms with improved graphics and performance.
Set in the fictional district of Kamurocho and the Okinawan town of Ryukyu, Yakuza 3 follows the protagonist Kazuma Kiryu as he attempts to leave his life in the Yakuza behind and build a peaceful orphanage. However, Kiryu is inevitably drawn back into the world of organized crime when a series of events threaten both his personal life and the well-being of the children under his care.
Yakuza 4 Remastered
Core entry? : Yes
Order number : 5
| Initial Release Date | January 17, 2019 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza 4 Remastered is an updated version of the original Yakuza 4, which was initially released in 2010 for PlayStation 3. This remastered edition brings the classic title to contemporary platforms with improved visuals and performance.
The game unfolds in the vibrant districts of Kamurocho and introduces players to four playable protagonists, each with their distinct storylines that interweave in a complex narrative web.
Kazuma Kiryu, Shun Akiyama, Taiga Saejima, and Masayoshi Tanimura navigate the treacherous world of organized crime, players experience a mix of intense combat, dramatic storytelling, and a plethora of side activities that define the Yakuza series.
Yakuza 5 Remastered
Core entry? : Yes
Order number : 6
| Initial Release Date | June 20, 2019 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza 5 Remastered is an updated version of the original Yakuza 5, which was initially released in 2012 for PlayStation 3. This remastered edition brings the game to modern platforms with enhanced graphics, improved performance, and updated localization.
Set in multiple locations, including the familiar district of Kamurocho, the game follows the interconnected stories of five protagonists – Kazuma Kiryu, Shun Akiyama, Taiga Saejima, Haruka Sawamura, and newcomer Tatsuo Shinada.
As these characters navigate their unique narratives within the Yakuza underworld, players are treated to a diverse range of gameplay experiences, from intense brawling to engaging in various side activities, capturing the essence of the Yakuza series.
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life
Core entry? : Yes
Order number : 7
| Initial Release Date | December 8, 2016 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life is the concluding chapter in the epic saga of Kazuma Kiryu, with players delving into the gripping conclusion of the Yakuza series.
Set in the familiar districts of Kamurocho and Onomichi, the narrative unfolds as Kiryu embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind a mysterious incident involving his adoptive daughter, Haruka Sawamura.
The game combines intense brawler-style combat with a deep and emotional storyline, exploring themes of family, loyalty, and the consequences of a life lived in the criminal underworld.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Core entry? : Yes
Order number : 8
| Initial Release Date | January 16, 2020 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 5 – Xbox Series X|S – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PC |
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a departure from the traditional series formula, introducing a new protagonist and a shift to turn-based RPG combat.
Set in the fictional city of Yokohama, players assume the role of Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who takes the fall for a crime he didn’t commit. Upon his release from prison after 18 years, Kasuga discovers a changed world and sets out on a quest for justice and redemption, forming a diverse party of misfits along the way.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Core entry? : Yes
Order number : 9
| Initial Release Date | January 26, 2024 |
| Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 5 – Xbox Series X|S – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PC |
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the latest core entry of the Yakuza series, continuing the story of Ichiban Kasuga. Former mainline protagonist Kazuma Kiryu returns as well.
Set in Hawaii, the first overseas locale in the history of the franchise, Kasuga and Kiryu band together to help the former reunite with his mother while the latter struggles to survive life with cancer.
