The Most Popular Yakuza Game, Ranked

Choose the game you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 29, 2024 07:21
Fans of the Yakuza series often debate which game stands out as the pinnacle of the franchise. With numerous entries, each bringing its own unique flavor, narrative depth, and memorable characters, it's not easy to pick the best. Ranking them helps clarify which titles have resonated the most with the audience and provides new players with guided entry points into the series. By participating in voting, users contribute to a clearer illustration of the community's preferences. This democratic approach not only enhances engagement but also ensures that the rankings reflect the collective voice rather than a singular opinion. Such a system encourages a lively community discourse and helps shape a consensus on the standout titles in the Yakuza series.

What Is the Most Popular Yakuza Game?

  1. 1
    70
    votes

    Yakuza 0

    A prequel to the original Yakuza game, set in the late 1980s, focusing on the early life of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima.
    • Release Date: March 12, 2015
    • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows
  2. 2
    34
    votes

    Yakuza 5

    Features five main protagonists, including Kazuma Kiryu, and expands the game's scope to five different cities across Japan.
    • Release Date: December 6, 2012
    • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4
  3. 3
    20
    votes

    Yakuza Kiwami

    A remake of the first Yakuza game, featuring updated graphics and expanded story elements.
    • Release Date: January 21, 2016
    • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One
  4. 4
    19
    votes

    Yakuza 6: The Song of Life

    The final chapter in Kazuma Kiryu's story, utilizing the new Dragon Engine for enhanced graphics and gameplay.
    • Release Date: December 8, 2016
    • Platforms: PlayStation 4
  5. 5
    15
    votes

    Yakuza 3

    Follows Kiryu as he attempts to settle down and run an orphanage, only to be pulled back into the criminal underworld.
    • Release Date: February 26, 2009
    • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4
  6. 6
    7
    votes

    Yakuza Kiwami 2

    A remake of the second Yakuza game using the Dragon Engine, with updated graphics and additional content.
    • Release Date: December 7, 2017
    • Platforms: PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One
  7. 7
    7
    votes

    Yakuza 4

    The game introduces three new playable characters alongside Kazuma Kiryu, each with their interconnected storylines.
    • Release Date: March 18, 2010
    • Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4
  8. 8
    3
    votes

    Yakuza: Like a Dragon

    A departure from the series' traditional action combat, introducing turn-based RPG elements and a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga.
    • Release Date: January 16, 2020
    • Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Windows
  9. 9
    2
    votes

    Yakuza 2

    Continues the story of Kazuma Kiryu as he finds himself embroiled in another yakuza conflict shortly after the events of the first game.
    • Release Date: December 7, 2006
    • Platforms: PlayStation 2
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Yakuza

    The original game that started the series, introducing players to the world of Kazuma Kiryu and the complex, gritty underworld of the yakuza.
    • Release Date: December 8, 2005
    • Platforms: PlayStation 2

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Yakuza game. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or game is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1965 views
  • 177 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each game once every 24 hours. The rank of each game is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Yakuza Game

Yakuza 0
Rank #1 for the most popular Yakuza game: Yakuza 0 (Source)
The Yakuza game series has gained a large following over the years. It blends action, drama, and an open-world experience. Players step into the shoes of a member of the yakuza, navigating the gritty streets of Japan. The series offers a mix of combat, exploration, and story-driven missions.

The storylines are rich and complex. They often involve themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. Players interact with a wide range of characters, each with their own backstories and motivations. These characters add depth to the narrative and make the world feel alive.

Combat is a key element. Players engage in hand-to-hand fights, using a variety of moves and weapons. The combat system is fluid and responsive, allowing for strategic play. Players can also upgrade their abilities, adding a layer of progression to the experience.

Exploration is another important aspect. The game world is detailed and immersive. Players can visit shops, restaurants, and other locations. They can take part in various side activities, such as karaoke, darts, and arcade games. These activities provide a break from the main story and add to the overall experience.

The series is known for its attention to detail. The game world is a faithful recreation of real-life Japanese cities. This adds a sense of authenticity and immersion. The developers put a lot of effort into making the environment feel realistic.

The music and sound design also stand out. The soundtrack features a mix of genres, from rock to jazz. The sound effects add to the intensity of combat and the atmosphere of the world. Voice acting is top-notch, with performances that bring the characters to life.

The series has a dedicated fan base. Many players appreciate the blend of action and story. The games offer a unique experience that is different from other titles in the genre. The attention to detail and rich narratives keep players coming back for more.

The series has also been praised for its portrayal of Japanese culture. It offers a glimpse into the world of the yakuza, while also showcasing everyday life in Japan. This cultural aspect adds another layer of depth to the experience.

Over the years, the series has evolved. New features and improvements have been added with each release. The developers listen to player feedback and strive to make each game better than the last. This commitment to quality has helped the series maintain its popularity.

In conclusion, the Yakuza game series offers a unique blend of action, story, and exploration. Its rich narratives, detailed world, and engaging combat make it a standout in the genre. The series continues to attract new players while keeping long-time fans engaged. Its portrayal of Japanese culture and the yakuza adds an extra layer of depth, making it a compelling experience for anyone who plays.

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