How to Play the Yakuza Series in Chronological Order (2025 Edition)

The Yakuza (now rebranded in the West as Like a Dragon) series is one of the most beloved action-RPG franchises to come out of Japan. With its gripping storytelling, unforgettable characters, emotional depth, and over-the-top brawls, it's a ride you don’t want to miss. However, with so many entries—remakes, spin-offs, and name changes—it can be tough to know where to begin.

If you're wondering how to experience the full Yakuza saga in chronological order, not release order, here’s your definitive guide. This order follows the timeline of the story, not when the games were released.

🥇 1. Yakuza 0 (2015)

Chronological Year: 1988
Start here. Yakuza 0 is a prequel to the main series and introduces young Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima before their rise in the yakuza world. It’s the perfect entry point for new players—accessible, stylish, and emotionally gripping.

🥈 2. Yakuza Kiwami (2016)

Chronological Year: 2005
A ground-up remake of the original Yakuza (2005). This game picks up after Kiryu spends a decade in prison and returns to a changed Kamurocho. Essential for understanding the roots of the saga.

🥉 3. Yakuza Kiwami 2 (2017)

Chronological Year: 2006
A remake of Yakuza 2 using the Yakuza 6 engine. It continues Kiryu’s story as he deals with inter-clan conflict and political intrigue.

🪓 4. Yakuza 3 (2009)

Chronological Year: 2009
Kiryu tries to live a peaceful life running an orphanage in Okinawa but is dragged back into yakuza politics. A tonal shift, with more focus on family and legacy.

🔥 5. Yakuza 4 (2010)

Chronological Year: 2010
This entry broadens the scope with four playable protagonists, each with interwoven stories. It deepens the lore and sets up key events for the next games.

🔗 6. Yakuza 5 (2012)

Chronological Year: 2012
A sprawling epic with five protagonists and five cities. It's the most ambitious entry in terms of scope and narrative, offering a deeper look into Japanese society.

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

Chronological Year: 2016
This game concludes Kiryu’s story arc. Emotional and heartfelt, it wraps up years of storytelling and character development.

🧼 8. Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name (2023)

Chronological Year: 2018
A bridge between Yakuza 6 and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, this game follows Kiryu’s secret life after the events of 6. A must-play before the shift in protagonists.

🧼 9. Like a Dragon: Ishin! (Remake, 2023)

Chronological Year: 1860s (Alternate History)
Technically not part of the main timeline, but worth mentioning. This samurai-era spin-off reimagines Yakuza characters as historical figures. Consider it optional or a side dish to the main course.

🎲 10. Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)

Chronological Year: 2019
A major turning point. This entry introduces Ichiban Kasuga as the new protagonist and shifts the combat to turn-based RPG style. It’s fresh, bold, and heartfelt—signaling the franchise’s new direction.

🌴 11. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2024)

Chronological Year: 2023
The latest mainline entry, continuing Ichiban's journey and reuniting him with Kiryu in a big way. It expands the world, blends action and emotion, and pushes the series into new territory—literally, with a trip to Hawaii.

🎮 Optional Spin-Offs and Side Games

• Judgment / Lost Judgment – Set in the same universe with overlapping characters. Highly recommended for fans of detective drama and action.

• Dead Souls – A zombie-themed alternate universe entry. Fun, but non-canon.

• Yakuza Online (JP only) – Mobile game, not essential.

• Ryu ga Gotoku Kenzan! – Feudal Japan setting, Japan-only, not in the main timeline.