The Yakuza games story portrays Yakuza culture in several ways. It shows their hierarchical structure. The higher - ups have great power and respect, and the lower - level members have to follow strict rules. Also, their sense of justice within their own world is depicted. They have their own way of dealing with disputes and traitors which is part of their unique culture.
The Yakuza games in story order begin with Yakuza 0. It's a prequel that shows the early days of the main characters. Yakuza Kiwami is next, it's like a fresh take on the start of the main story. Yakuza Kiwami 2 follows suit. Yakuza 3, 4, and 5 then progress the story with new characters and plotlines being introduced. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life is a significant part of the series' story. And Yakuza: Like a Dragon, while different in some gameplay aspects, still continues the overarching story that has been built up over the previous games.
The main Yakuza games in story order start with Yakuza 0, which serves as a prequel. Then comes Yakuza Kiwami, a remake of the first Yakuza game. After that, Yakuza Kiwami 2 follows. These early entries set the foundation for the complex characters and the seedy underworld of Kamurocho. As the series progresses, subsequent games like Yakuza 3, 4, 5, and 6 continue the story of Kazuma Kiryu and the ever - evolving Yakuza world, with new challenges, characters, and plot twists emerging in each installment.
The key elements often include the complex world of the Yakuza, their code of honor. There are also the power struggles within the criminal organizations. For example, the main character may be involved in battles to rise through the ranks or protect his territory.
Starting with Yakuza 0, important events include the backstories of the main characters, such as how they got involved in the yakuza world. In Yakuza Kiwami, Kiryu's rise within the Tojo Clan and his conflicts with other members are crucial. Yakuza Kiwami 2 sees the continuation of the clan's internal power struggles and external threats. Yakuza 3 is centered around Kiryu's life at the orphanage and the threats it faces. Yakuza 4 weaves together different characters' stories around a central mystery. Yakuza 5 has a large - scale story with characters in different regions facing their own challenges. Yakuza 6 is about Kiryu's final stand and his family's future. Yakuza: Like a Dragon is about the new protagonist's adventure while still being linked to the previous games' lore.
'Yakuza 6: The Song of Life' also has a strong story. It's the end of Kiryu's story arc. It ties up a lot of loose ends from previous games. The story focuses on Kiryu protecting his family and facing the consequences of his past actions. It has a more emotional depth compared to some of the other games in the series, with themes of sacrifice and redemption.
To play Yakuza games in the correct story order, start with Yakuza 0. It's a prequel and sets up a lot of the backstory. Then move on to Yakuza Kiwami, which is a remake of the first game. After that, play Yakuza Kiwami 2. Continue with Yakuza 3, 4, 5, and 6 in that order. This way, you'll be able to follow the story of the characters, especially Kazuma Kiryu, and understand all the plot developments and character relationships as they unfold throughout the series.
Some might also recommend starting with 'Yakuza 6: The Song of Life' if you like a story that has a lot of finality and closure. It's the end of Kiryu's journey, so you can see how his story wraps up. But keep in mind that you might miss out on some of the character development and backstories that are explored in the earlier games in the series.