How to Play the Yakuza Games in Chronological Order

Launched in 2005 for the PlayStation 2, the *Yakuza* series (rebranded as *Like a Dragon* in 2022) has captivated players with its thrilling yakuza family conflicts set in the fictional Kamurocho, Tokyo. Known for its action-packed gameplay, dramatic storytelling, cinematic presentation, and surprisingly goofy humor (don't skip the side quests!), the series has steadily gained global recognition, fueled by consistent releases of localized versions, spin-offs, and new installments, including the recent *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii*.

The Yakuza Games in Chronological Order

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How Many Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games Are There?

Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have released nine mainline Yakuza/Like a Dragon games, 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, with all new titles since Yakuza: Like a Dragon launching across multiple platforms, excluding Nintendo Switch until the October 2024 release of Yakuza Kiwami on the platform.

Beyond the main series, *Like a Dragon* boasts diverse spin-offs. *Kurohyō: Ryu ga Gotoku Shinsho* and its sequel feature Tatsuya Ukyo, a new protagonist. *Judgment* and *Lost Judgment* introduce Takayuki Yagami, a lawyer-turned-detective, whose investigations intersect with the *Yakuza* world. *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* shares the gameplay of Kiryu's games. *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*, and *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii* (2025) stars Goro Majima.

Which Yakuza Game Should You Play First?

For newcomers, starting with Yakuza 0 or Yakuza: Like a Dragon offers a solid entry point.

Yakuza Kiwami

For players familiar with Yakuza 0, Yakuza Kiwami provides a refined experience with updated controls and localization, serving as a strong foundation for the franchise.

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Mainline Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games in Chronological Order:

Yakuza 0Yakuza / Yakuza KiwamiYakuza 2 / Yakuza Kiwami 2Yakuza 3Yakuza 4Yakuza 5Yakuza 6: The Song of LifeYakuza: Like a DragonLike a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Beware: Mild spoilers for plots, characters, and major events follow.

1. Yakuza 0 (2014)

Chronologically first, *Yakuza 0* features Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima in the late 1980s, embroiled in a conflict over a crucial piece of land.

Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC | IGN’s Yakuza 0 Review

2. Yakuza (2005) / Yakuza Kiwami (2016)

Kiryu's story continues after his wrongful imprisonment, involving stolen money, a missing friend, and a new family bond.

Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Yakuza Kiwami), PS2 | IGN’s Yakuza Review | Yakuza Kiwami Review

3. Yakuza 2 (2006) / Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2017)

Kiryu attempts to prevent a war between the Tojo Clan and the Omi Alliance, encountering new allies and enemies.

Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Yakuza Kiwami 2), PS3 | IGN’s Yakuza 2 Review | Yakuza Kiwami 2 Review

4. Yakuza 3 (2009)

Kiryu runs an orphanage in Okinawa, but his peaceful life is disrupted by various conflicts involving yakuza families and international organizations.

Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC (The Yakuza Remastered Collection), PS3 | IGN’s Yakuza 3 Review

5. Yakuza 4 (2010)

Four protagonists navigate complex relationships and conflicts within the yakuza underworld.

Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC (The Yakuza Remastered Collection), PS3 | IGN’s Yakuza 4 Review

6. Yakuza 5 (2012)

Five protagonists' stories intertwine in this sprawling narrative set in multiple locations.

Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC (The Yakuza Remastered Collection), PS3 | IGN’s Yakuza 5 Review

7. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (2016)

Kiryu's final chapter focuses on his adopted daughter and a new family secret.

Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC | IGN’s Yakuza 6: The Song of Life Review

8. Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)

Introducing Ichiban Kasuga, a new protagonist and a turn-based combat system, set in Yokohama.

Available on: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series S|X, Xbox One, PC | IGN’s Yakuza: Like a Dragon Review

9. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024)

Kiryu and Kasuga team up in a globe-trotting adventure.

Available on: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series S/X, Xbox One, PC | IGN's Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Review

All Yakuza/Like a Dragon Games and Spin-offs in Release Order:

(Mainline Yakuza games are marked with \)*

1. Yakuza (2005) / Yakuza Kiwami (2016)*
2. Yakuza 2 (2006) / Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2017)*
3. Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! (2008)
4. Yakuza 3 (2009)*
5. Yakuza 4 (2010)*
6. Kurohyō: Ryū ga Gotoku Shinshō (2010)
7. Yakuza: Dead Souls (2011)
8. Kurohyō 2: Ryū ga Gotoku Ashura Hen (2012)
9. Yakuza 5 (2012)*
10. Ryū ga Gotoku Ishin! (2014) / Like a Dragon: Ishin! (2023)
11. Yakuza 0 (2015)*
12. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (2016)*
13. Yakuza Online (2018)
14. Judgment (2018)
15. Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise (2018)
16. Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)*
17. Lost Judgment (2021)
18. Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name (2023)
19. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024)*
20. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii (2025)

What’s Next for Yakuza/Like a Dragon?

While *Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth* concluded its story, the future of the franchise remains bright, with anticipation for future mainline entries and spin-offs. Further announcements are expected following the release of *Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii*.

Further Video Game Timelines:

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