Developer: Ryū Ga Gotoku Studios

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! (2014)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin!: A Samurai’s Journey in the Bakumatsu

Introduction

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! (Like a Dragon: Ishin!) is a spin-off game in the Yakuza series, developed and published by Sega. It was released in Japan in 2014 for the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4, and worldwide in 2018 for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Windows. The game is set in the chaotic Bakumatsu period of Japanese history, and follows the story of Sakamoto Ryoma, a real-life samurai who played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration.

Setting and Story

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is set in Kyoto during the Bakumatsu period, a time of great political and social upheaval in Japan. The country is on the brink of a civil war, with the forces of the shogunate and the anti-shogunate rebels clashing for control.

The player takes on the role of Sakamoto Ryoma, a young samurai from the Tosa藩 (domain). Ryoma is a skilled swordsman and a strong believer in justice. He becomes embroiled in the conflict between the shogunate and the rebels, and must fight to protect his friends and family while also trying to find his place in the rapidly changing world.

Gameplay

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is an action-adventure game with a strong focus on melee combat. The player can use a variety of swords, spears, and other weapons to fight enemies. The game also features a number of different fighting styles, which can be customized to suit the player’s preferences.

In addition to combat, the game also features a number of other activities, such as gambling, fishing, and karaoke. The player can also explore the city of Kyoto, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and other businesses.

Characters

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! features a large cast of characters, both historical and fictional. The main protagonist is Sakamoto Ryoma, a real-life samurai who played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration. Other historical figures who appear in the game include Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of Japan, and Saigo Takamori, a leading figure in the Satsuma Rebellion.

In addition to the historical characters, the game also features a number of fictional characters, such as Okita Soji, a captain in the Shinsengumi, and Hijikata Toshizo, the vice-commander of the Shinsengumi.

Themes

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! explores a number of different themes, including honor, loyalty, and the meaning of justice. The game also examines the changing nature of Japan during the Bakumatsu period, as the country transitioned from a feudal society to a modern nation-state.

Reception

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! was met with critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and exciting combat. The game was also praised for its accurate depiction of the Bakumatsu period.

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game was also nominated for a number of awards, including Game of the Year at the Japan Game Awards.

Legacy

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is considered to be one of the best games in the Yakuza series. The game’s success has led to the development of a number of other spin-off games in the series, including Yakuza: Dead Souls and Judgment.

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! has also had a significant impact on Japanese popular culture. The game’s characters and story have been referenced in a number of other works of fiction, including anime, manga, and live-action films.

Conclusion

Ryuu ga Gotoku Ishin! is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game that offers a unique and immersive experience. The game’s engaging story, well-developed characters, and exciting combat make it a must-play for fans of the Yakuza series and historical action games alike.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Yakuza 0 (2015)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Yakuza 0: A Prequel that Expands the Yakuza Universe

Released in 2015, Yakuza 0 is a prequel to the long-running Yakuza series, taking place in 1988, two decades before the events of the first game. The game follows the stories of two protagonists: Kazuma Kiryu, a young yakuza member trying to make a name for himself, and Goro Majima, a former yakuza lieutenant who has been forced to work as a cabaret club manager.

Despite being a prequel, Yakuza 0 is a standalone story that can be enjoyed by newcomers to the series as well as longtime fans. The game features a deep and engaging narrative, a diverse cast of characters, and an addictive blend of action, adventure, and minigames.

Story

Yakuza 0’s story is told in two parts, each focusing on one of the protagonists.

Kazuma Kiryu’s Story

Kiryu’s story begins with him being tasked with collecting a debt from a local businessman. However, when the businessman is found murdered, Kiryu is framed for the crime and must go on the run to clear his name. Along the way, he uncovers a complex web of corruption and betrayal that reaches the highest levels of the Tojo Clan, the yakuza organization to which he belongs.

Goro Majima’s Story

Majima’s story begins with him being demoted to the position of cabaret club manager after a failed attempt to assassinate the Tojo Clan’s patriarch. Forced to work with a group of incompetent and misfit employees, Majima must find a way to make his cabaret club profitable while also navigating the treacherous world of the yakuza.

Gameplay

Yakuza 0 is an action-adventure game with a heavy emphasis on melee combat. Players can control either Kiryu or Majima, each of whom has their own unique fighting styles and abilities. The game also features a wide variety of minigames, including karaoke, pool, darts, and gambling.

Characters

Yakuza 0 features a large and diverse cast of characters, including:

  • Kazuma Kiryu: A young yakuza member with a strong sense of justice.
  • Goro Majima: A former yakuza lieutenant who is now working as a cabaret club manager.
  • Makoto Makimura: A cabaret hostess who becomes Kiryu’s love interest.
  • Saejima Taiga: A Tojo Clan member who is imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit.
  • Ryuji Goda: A powerful yakuza boss who is Kiryu’s main antagonist.

Themes

Yakuza 0 explores a number of themes, including:

  • Loyalty and betrayal: The game shows how loyalty and betrayal can be powerful forces in the yakuza world.
  • The importance of family: Both Kiryu and Majima find solace and support from their families, whether they are blood-related or not.
  • The power of redemption: Both Kiryu and Majima are given the opportunity to redeem themselves for past mistakes.

Critical Reception

Yakuza 0 received critical acclaim upon release, with many reviewers praising the game’s story, characters, combat, and minigames. The game was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Yakuza 0 is considered to be one of the best games in the Yakuza series. The game’s success helped to revitalize the series and attract a new generation of fans. Yakuza 0 has also been credited with helping to popularize Japanese culture and entertainment in the West.

Conclusion

Yakuza 0 is a must-play for fans of action-adventure games, crime dramas, and Japanese culture. The game’s engaging story, diverse cast of characters, and addictive gameplay make it one of the most memorable and enjoyable games of its generation.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (2016)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Yakuza 6: The Song of Life: A Cinematic Conclusion to Kazuma Kiryu’s Saga

Step into the neon-lit streets of Kamurocho, Japan, where the legendary yakuza, Kazuma Kiryu, returns in a heart-pounding action brawler that brings his epic saga to a close. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life is a masterpiece of storytelling, combat, and exploration that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

A Tale of Redemption and Family

After three years behind bars, Kiryu emerges from prison to find that his surrogate daughter, Haruka Sawamura, has been involved in a tragic accident that has left her comatose. Determined to uncover the truth and protect his loved ones, Kiryu delves into the criminal underworld of Kamurocho, a city teeming with danger and intrigue.

As Kiryu investigates Haruka’s accident, he crosses paths with a cast of unforgettable characters, including a mysterious yakuza clan, corrupt politicians, and a ruthless loan shark. Along the way, he must confront his own past as a yakuza and the choices he has made.

Explosive Action and Brutality

Yakuza 6’s combat system is a thrilling blend of over-the-top brawling and strategic gameplay. Kiryu can unleash a wide range of devastating attacks, including punches, kicks, grabs, and weapons. The game introduces a new “Heat” system that allows Kiryu to enter a powered-up state, unleashing even more powerful moves.

The combat is brutal and visceral, with every punch and kick delivering a satisfying impact. Enemies come in all shapes and sizes, from street thugs to heavily armed yakuza enforcers. Kiryu must adapt his fighting style to each opponent, using a combination of raw power and strategic thinking to overcome his foes.

A Vibrant and Immersive World

Kamurocho is a living, breathing city that feels like a character in its own right. The streets are filled with bustling crowds, neon lights, and countless shops, restaurants, and bars to explore. You can engage in a variety of side activities, such as playing arcade games, gambling, and completing side quests.

The city is also home to a variety of minigames, including karaoke, batting cages, and clan battles. These minigames provide a fun and rewarding way to take a break from the main story and experience the unique atmosphere of Kamurocho.

A Cinematic Masterpiece

Yakuza 6 is a cinematic masterpiece that rivals the best action movies. The story is gripping and emotionally resonant, with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. The cutscenes are beautifully rendered and feature top-notch voice acting, bringing the characters and their struggles to life.

The game’s soundtrack is also exceptional, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of Kamurocho and the emotional journey of its characters. From the pounding beats of the battle themes to the melancholic melodies of the quieter moments, the music adds depth and impact to every scene.

A Fitting Conclusion to an Epic Saga

Yakuza 6: The Song of Life is a fitting conclusion to the epic saga of Kazuma Kiryu. It is a game that delivers on all fronts, with an engaging story, thrilling combat, a vibrant world, and stunning visuals. Whether you are a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer to the world of Yakuza, this game is an absolute must-play.

Key Features:

  • Play as Kazuma Kiryu, the legendary yakuza, in his final chapter
  • Unravel the truth behind Haruka Sawamura’s tragic accident
  • Explore the vibrant and immersive city of Kamurocho
  • Engage in brutal and satisfying combat with a variety of enemies
  • Enjoy a wide range of side activities and minigames
  • Experience a cinematic story with stunning visuals and voice acting

Score: 9/10

Review Score

9/10

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Yakuza Kiwami (2016)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Yakuza Kiwami: A Return to Kamurocho

Yakuza Kiwami is a remake of the 2005 open world action-adventure game Yakuza. It was developed by Sega and released for the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 in 2016. The game is a faithful recreation of the original, with updated graphics, a new combat system, and a story that’s still as engaging as ever.

Players take on the role of Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza who is released from prison after serving a 10-year sentence for a crime he didn’t commit. Kiryu returns to his old stomping grounds of Kamurocho, only to find that his former clan, the Tojo Clan, is in disarray. Kiryu sets out to rebuild the Tojo Clan and uncover the truth behind his imprisonment.

Yakuza Kiwami’s story is a gripping tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. Kiryu is a complex and well-developed character, and his journey is one that will stay with you long after you finish the game. The supporting cast is also excellent, and each character has their own unique story to tell.

The gameplay in Yakuza Kiwami is a mix of action, adventure, and RPG elements. Players will explore the city of Kamurocho, fight enemies in real-time combat, and complete side quests to earn experience points and money. Kiryu can learn new abilities and techniques as he levels up, and he can also equip different weapons and armor to improve his stats.

The combat in Yakuza Kiwami is fast-paced and brutal. Kiryu can use a variety of punches, kicks, and throws to defeat his enemies. He can also use weapons such as knives, swords, and baseball bats. The combat is very satisfying, and it’s a lot of fun to experiment with different combos and techniques.

In addition to the main story, Yakuza Kiwami also features a number of side quests and minigames. These side quests can be a lot of fun, and they’re a great way to earn extra experience points and money. The minigames are also a lot of fun, and they’re a great way to take a break from the main story.

Overall, Yakuza Kiwami is an excellent remake of the original Yakuza game. It features updated graphics, a new combat system, and a story that’s still as engaging as ever. If you’re a fan of the Yakuza series or open world action-adventure games in general, then you should definitely check out Yakuza Kiwami.

Characters

  • Kazuma Kiryu: The protagonist of Yakuza Kiwami. Kiryu is a former yakuza who is released from prison after serving a 10-year sentence for a crime he didn’t commit. He returns to Kamurocho to rebuild the Tojo Clan and uncover the truth behind his imprisonment.
  • Goro Majima: A former yakuza who is now a homeless man. Majima is a skilled fighter and a loyal friend to Kiryu.
  • Taiga Saejima: A former yakuza who is now a death row inmate. Saejima is a powerful fighter and a close friend to Kiryu.
  • Makoto Makimura: A nurse who works at the Sunflower Orphanage. Makimura is a kind and caring woman who is loved by the children at the orphanage.
  • Haruka Sawamura: A young girl who lives at the Sunflower Orphanage. Haruka is a bright and cheerful girl who looks up to Kiryu as a father figure.

Setting

Yakuza Kiwami is set in the fictional city of Kamurocho, a red-light district in Tokyo. Kamurocho is a vibrant and dangerous city, full of neon lights, hostess bars, and yakuza. The city is also home to a number of landmarks, such as the Millennium Tower and the Purgatory Arena.

Gameplay

Yakuza Kiwami is an open world action-adventure game. Players control Kazuma Kiryu as he explores the city of Kamurocho, fights enemies in real-time combat, and completes side quests. Kiryu can learn new abilities and techniques as he levels up, and he can also equip different weapons and armor to improve his stats.

In addition to the main story, Yakuza Kiwami also features a number of side quests and minigames. Side quests can be found all over Kamurocho, and they offer a variety of rewards, such as experience points, money, and items. Minigames can also be found all over Kamurocho, and they offer a fun way to take a break from the main story.

Themes

Yakuza Kiwami explores a number of themes, such as loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. Kiryu is a loyal friend and a dedicated yakuza, but he is also a man who has been betrayed by those he trusted. The game explores the conflict between Kiryu’s loyalty to his clan and his desire to do what is right.

Yakuza Kiwami also explores the theme of redemption. Kiryu is a man who has made mistakes in his past, but he is also a man who is trying to make amends. The game explores Kiryu’s journey towards redemption, and it shows that even the most flawed of people can change.

Conclusion

Yakuza Kiwami is an excellent remake of the original Yakuza game. It features updated graphics, a new combat system, and a story that’s still as engaging as ever. If you’re a fan of the Yakuza series or open world action-adventure games in general, then you should definitely check out Yakuza Kiwami.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Yakuza 5 (2012)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Yakuza 5: A Sprawling Epic of Crime, Honor, and Redemption

Released in 2012, Yakuza 5 is the fifth mainline installment in Sega’s long-running Yakuza series. Developed by Ryu ga Gotoku Studio, the game takes the series to new heights with its expansive open world, multiple playable characters, and gripping narrative.

A City of Dreams, a World of Crime

Yakuza 5 takes players on a journey across five vibrant and distinct Japanese cities: Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo. Each city is meticulously crafted with its own unique atmosphere, landmarks, and side activities. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the nightlife of Osaka, the world of Yakuza 5 is a living, breathing entity that immerses players in its captivating setting.

Five Intertwined Tales

For the first time in the series, Yakuza 5 features five playable characters, each with their own unique story, motivations, and combat style. Players will take control of Kazuma Kiryu, the series’ iconic protagonist; Shun Akiyama, a shrewd loan shark; Taiga Saejima, a former yakuza seeking redemption; Haruka Sawamura, an aspiring pop idol; and Tatsuo Shinada, a down-on-his-luck baseball player.

A Seamless Open World

Yakuza 5 introduces a brand-new graphics engine, allowing for a seamless open world experience. Players can freely explore each city, engaging in a wide range of activities, from completing story missions to participating in minigames. The world is filled with NPCs with their own daily routines, creating a sense of life and authenticity.

Thrilling Combat and Dynamic Gameplay

Yakuza 5’s combat system is a refined and exhilarating blend of brawling and martial arts. Each character has their own unique fighting style, from Kiryu’s powerful Dragon Style to Saejima’s brutal Tiger Drop. The game also features a variety of weapons, such as baseball bats, knives, and firearms, adding further depth to the combat.

A Multitude of Side Activities

In addition to the main story, Yakuza 5 offers a plethora of side activities to keep players entertained. From managing a cabaret club to participating in arcade games, there’s always something to do in the world of Yakuza 5. These activities not only provide a break from the main narrative but also offer unique rewards and insights into the characters and setting.

A Gripping Narrative of Crime and Redemption

Yakuza 5’s narrative is a complex and engrossing tale of crime, honor, and redemption. The story follows the five protagonists as they navigate the treacherous world of the yakuza, facing personal challenges, moral dilemmas, and ultimately, the consequences of their actions. The game explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the search for purpose, delivering a powerful and thought-provoking experience.

Critical Acclaim and Commercial Success

Upon its release, Yakuza 5 received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, compelling story, and immersive setting. The game was praised for its technical advancements, the depth of its characters, and its ability to seamlessly blend action, drama, and humor. Commercially, Yakuza 5 was a huge success, becoming the best-selling game in the series at the time.

Legacy and Impact

Yakuza 5 remains a beloved entry in the Yakuza series, and is often considered one of the best games in the franchise. Its expansive open world, multiple playable characters, and gripping narrative set a new standard for the series, and its influence can be seen in subsequent Yakuza games. The game’s success also helped to introduce the Yakuza series to a wider audience, solidifying its status as a major player in the action-adventure genre.

Conclusion

Yakuza 5 is a sprawling epic that combines thrilling action, a gripping narrative, and a living, breathing world. With its five playable characters, vast open world, and multitude of side activities, the game offers an unparalleled experience that will keep players engaged for hours on end. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Yakuza series or a newcomer to the genre, Yakuza 5 is an essential title that will leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

9/10

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