Definitive Guide To Starting The Yakuza Series

KeenGamer: "Wondering where to begin? We've got you covered! Yakuza is an expansive series but can be overwhelming at first. It also is one of the more rewarding gaming experiences you could have. You'll have no problem getting started with this guide!"

[DerekTweed]

Great games. I started with Kiwami. I think it is the logical starting place as it is the original story. Then I played 0, the 6, I just couldn't wait for Kiwami 2 and at that time they hadn't announce the HD remasters of 3, 4 and 5.

I would recommend this series to everyone, it is great and now my favourite games of all time. I only discovered it after buying a PS4 and seeing it in the PS store and then checking it out. I lived in Japan for a short time so I love how this game represents the Japanese culture. Although it is a safe place, there are no thugs standing on every street corner wanting to fight with you lol.

[TheGoodestBoi]

I played 0 and 1. I wanted to hold out to at least 2 before I get 6, but honestly I don't think I can 😅

[DerekTweed]

Not much longer to wait. Although 7 weeks is a long time when you're holding off on playing a game.

I played 6 and there is really no story spoilers or backstory necessary. And from what I understand Kiwami 2 has some improvements over 6 so it might be better to play 6 first anyway.

I'll play the HD remasters when they come out but it'll be so strange going back to the older games after playing the most advanced.

[TheGoodestBoi]

Oh OK I didn't think that 2 would have been improvement over 6 just a normal remaster. Maybe I'll get 6 this weekend and play the improved 2 later

[Majin-vegeta]

Just download kiwami 2 demo and knock yourself out for the time being

[TheGoodestBoi]

There's a demo? Did not know. Cheers for the heads up MV!

[yeahright2]

I'd honestly hold off as long as possible for 6. It's the end of Kiryu's story. And it looks like sega is releasing all of them on ps4. Plus if you have a PS3, you owe it to yourself to play 4 and 5. My two personal favorite entries, and they both have a major role for the best character in the series, Shun Akiyama, plus a bit of a deep dive into my boy majima.

[TheGoodestBoi]

I do have a ps3. And I actually have a physical copy of 4 just haven't played it yet. I haven't got 5,hoping they release a ps4 physical for it

[yeahright2]

They will. I believe they said the reason they rereleasing the whole main series on PS4 was specifically for new western fans. But if you got 4, I can't recommend that one enough. My personal favorite.

[TheGoodestBoi]

@yeahright You making a strong case for 4 to be the next one out of my backlog!

[Tankbusta40]

You can play them in whatever order you want. I got hooked on zero... Then imported Ishin, played kiwami and then six... Amazing series and I'm so glad I finally got into it.

[yeahright2]

Yeah I'm so happy the cat's finally out of the bag. It was a struggle for fans to get the games released in the west. I remember signing all those petitions, jumping on forums... Heck the battle's still going for Ishin and kenzan

[BlaqMagiq1]

Just play in this order:

0>Kiwami>Kiwami 2>3>4>5>6

That's literally all you need to know. You're welcome.

[brando008]

Started on 4, and have been meaning to finish 5. Anybody new to the series should start with Kiwami