The Yakuza series spans over two decades, delivering a deep mix of crime drama, personal redemption, and neon-soaked Tokyo streets. For new players, the sequence can feel confusing, especially when older titles receive remakes or spin-offs.
This guide clarifies the order of Yakuza games with clear timelines, genre shifts, and must-play recommendations. You can follow the suggested path to experience the intended narrative progression and gameplay evolution.
| Title | Original Release | Genre & Focus | Modern Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yakuza (2005) | 2005 | Open-world action adventure, origin of Kazuma Kiryu | Remastered on current consoles |
| Yakuza 2 (2006) | 2006 | Dual protagonists, expanded side content | Remastered on current consoles |
| Yakuza 3 (2009) | 2009 | Slower pacing, focus on life away from crime | Remastered on current consoles |
| Like a Dragon (2020) | 2020 | Full reboot with modern action RPG systems | Native on current platforms |
| Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024) | 2024 | Turn-based combat, global settings, legacy characters | Released on PlayStation and Xbox |
Core Chronological Journey
From Kiryu’s Origin to Reinvention
The original Yakuza introduces Kazuma Kiryu through a decades-spanning conspiracy rooted in Tokyo’s underground economy. Yakuza 2 expands this by controlling both Kiryu and a new protagonist, while Yakuza 3 shifts toward quieter, character-driven storytelling. The 2020 reboot Like a Dragon overhauls mechanics and tone, and Infinite Wealth continues this refreshed direction with global locations and strategic combat.
Understanding the Remaster Strategy
Why Remasters Matter for Series Order
Many players encounter the series through remastered collections, which can obscure release order. The first three mainline games were bundled as the Yakuza Remastered Collection, making it easy to experience the early arc in chronological order. Knowing this helps you decide whether to play original releases or remastered versions first.
Standalone Spin-Offs and Their Place
Judgment and Lost Judgment as Narrative Branches
Although not starring Kiryu, Judgment and Lost Judgment exist in the same world and are essential for a complete timeline. They focus on new protagonists and detective-style storytelling, offering a different tone while expanding the universe. These titles are best enjoyed after the core Yakuza sequence to appreciate their connections and references.
Recommended Path and Key Takeaways
- Play the main series in original release order for the intended story flow.
- Treat Judgment and Lost Judgment as complementary detective entries after the core arc.
- Consider the 2020 reboot if you prefer modern gameplay over classic action.
- Explore Infinite Wealth last to enjoy the evolved combat and global scope.
FAQ
Reader questions
Should I start with the original Yakuza or the 2020 reboot?
If you prefer classic action-adventure and want the original story beats, start with Yakuza (2005) remastered. If you prefer modern mechanics and faster pacing, start with Like a Dragon (2020).
Does the order of Yakuza 2 and Yakuza 3 matter for the story?
Playing Yakuza 2 directly after the first game preserves the narrative flow, since Yakuza 3 continues Kiryu’s arc with a more subdued tone and life-building focus.
Where do Judgment and Lost Judgment fit in the timeline?
They take place after the original trilogy and before the 2020 reboot, serving as a bridge that expands the world without disrupting Kiryu’s core journey.
Are the remastered editions necessary to understand the series order?
Not strictly, but the remastered editions often include updates and extras that make the early story easier to follow, especially for players new to the franchise.