Before Kazuma Kiryu became the Dragon of Dojima, he was just a rising member of the Tojo Clan navigating the gritty streets of 1980s Japan. Yakuza 0 takes players back to where it all began — offering a thrilling, emotional, and often hilarious introduction to one of the most unique action RPG franchises in gaming. Whether you're new to the series or returning for nostalgia, Yakuza 0 is where the legend starts.
Yakuza 0: The Perfect Starting Point for Sega’s Cult Crime Drama Series
What Is Yakuza 0?
Yakuza 0 is a story-driven action-adventure game developed and published by SEGA, and it serves as a prequel to the long-running Yakuza series. Originally released in Japan in 2015 and globally in 2017, the game is now available on Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms — and remains the most recommended entry point for newcomers.
Set in Tokyo’s Kamurocho and Osaka’s Sotenbori during the neon-lit, bubble economy era of 1988, players control two protagonists:
-
Kazuma Kiryu, a low-ranking yakuza framed for murder
-
Goro Majima, the “Mad Dog of Shimano,” living under surveillance and fighting for his freedom
With its blend of intense drama, side-splitting humor, brutal street fights, and heartfelt storytelling, Yakuza 0 strikes a rare balance that few games achieve.
Key Features That Make Yakuza 0 a Must-Play
1. Dual Protagonist System
Switch between Kiryu and Majima, each with their own fighting styles, narrative arcs, and cities to explore. Their paths intertwine to deliver one of the series’ most compelling storylines.
2. Deep, Cinematic Storytelling
The main plot delves into betrayal, loyalty, ambition, and honor — all wrapped in beautifully directed cutscenes and stellar voice acting (Japanese audio with English subtitles).
3. Satisfying Combat System
Each character has three switchable fighting styles, allowing you to brawl with speed, power, or weapons. Upgrades unlock brutal Heat Moves and new techniques that feel incredibly rewarding.
4. Rich Open-World Exploration
While not “open-world” in the GTA sense, Yakuza 0 offers two densely packed districts filled with side quests, minigames, shops, and hidden secrets.
5. Hilarious and Memorable Side Content
From helping a dominatrix find her voice to running a cabaret club, side stories deliver unexpected laughs and emotional beats — often with better writing than many AAA games’ main quests.
6. 1980s Japanese Culture and Aesthetics
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and vibes of late-80s Japan. The game nails everything from fashion and nightlife to social tensions of the era.
What’s New or Different on PC (Steam)?
The Steam version of Yakuza 0 comes with:
-
Unlocked frame rates and up to 4K resolution
-
Improved textures and load times
-
Full controller and keyboard/mouse support
-
Easy modding potential for PC enthusiasts
For those who prefer playing on PC, this is arguably the definitive version.
Who Should Play Yakuza 0?
1. Fans of Strong Narrative Games
If you love well-written stories with twists, emotional weight, and character growth, Yakuza 0 delivers in spades.
2. Action-Brawler Enthusiasts
The combat is responsive, flashy, and incredibly fun — especially when combined with the upgrade system.
3. Gamers Looking for Bang-for-Buck
Expect 50–100 hours of content with main story, substories, collectibles, and minigames. It’s a massive game at an affordable price.
4. Players Curious About Japanese Culture
Yakuza 0 offers a surprisingly authentic peek into Japanese society — from honor codes and business etiquette to nightlife and gambling.
What Are Critics and Players Saying?
Yakuza 0 holds a “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam and received high praise from major outlets:
-
IGN: “A crime drama filled with serious moments and absurd distractions.”
-
GameSpot: “Incredible writing, world-building, and pacing.”
-
Steam Review: “One of the best games I’ve ever played — and I didn’t expect it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Yakuza 0 good for newcomers?
Yes — it’s a prequel, so no prior series knowledge is needed. Many fans started here. - Is there English voice acting?
No — the game uses Japanese voice acting with English subtitles, preserving its authenticity. - How long is the game?
The main story takes around 30–40 hours, with 50–100 hours for completionists. - Can I skip the side quests?
Yes, but they’re some of the most entertaining parts. Many have unique gameplay or gear rewards.
Final Thoughts: The Best Place to Begin the Yakuza Saga
Yakuza 0 is more than just a prequel — it’s one of the best games in the franchise, period. It combines meaningful storytelling with absurd comedy, deep character work, and wildly fun gameplay. Whether you’re here for the fights, the feels, or just to sing karaoke with a criminal, Yakuza 0 delivers an unforgettable experience.
User Reviews
