The Yakuza/Like a Dragon saga: A chronological guide to the sprawling series.
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 intricate conflicts and schemes of yakuza families. While initially gaining popularity in Japan, the series has achieved global recognition through consistent localized releases, spin-offs, and new installments, including the recent Majima-led spin-off, Like a Dragon: Pirate of the Caribbean.
Yakuza Games in Chronological Order
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How Many Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games Exist?
Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have released 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. Every new game since Yakuza: Like a Dragon has launched simultaneously across multiple platforms, excluding the Nintendo Switch until the October 2024 release of Yakuza Kiwami on the Switch.
Beyond the main series, Like a Dragon boasts diverse spin-offs. Kurohyō: Ryu ga Gotoku Shinsho (2010) and its sequel, Kurohyō 2: Ryu ga Gotoku Ashura Hen (2012), are PlayStation Portable exclusives featuring Tatsuya Ukyo. Judgment (2018) and Lost Judgment (2021) introduce lawyer-turned-detective Takayuki Yagami, whose investigations intersect with the Tojo Clan. Other notable spin-offs include the zombie-themed Yakuza: Dead Souls (2011), the mobile/PC TCG Yakuza Online (2018), and Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise (2018). Ryu ga Gotoku Kenzan! (2008) and Ryu ga Gotoku Ishin! (2014, 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, while Like a Dragon: Pirate of the Caribbean (2025) stars Goro Majima.
Where to Begin Your Yakuza Journey?
Newcomers can start chronologically with Yakuza 0 or jump into the fresh start offered by Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
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: Mild spoilers for plot, characters, and major events follow.)
The detailed descriptions of each game's storyline and availability are omitted for brevity, but the original text provides this information. The image placements remain unchanged.
