The Yakuza franchise has become a powerhouse in the gaming industry, captivating players worldwide with its unique blend of gritty drama, over-the-top action, and quirky side activities. As the series celebrates over 17 million total sales as of 2021, let's dive deep into the top 10 Yakuza games, ranked by their estimated sales figures and overall impact on the franchise.
10. Ryu ga Gotoku Ishin! (~400,000 Copies Sold)
At the bottom of our list, we find the Japan-exclusive spinoff, Ryu ga Gotoku Ishin! This historical take on the Yakuza formula transports familiar characters to Japan's tumultuous Bakumatsu period, offering a fresh twist on the series' established gameplay.
Despite its limited release, Ishin! managed to carve out a dedicated fanbase. The game's success has even sparked rumors of a potential remake or localization, with series creator Toshihiro Nagoshi expressing interest in revisiting this title. While its sales figures may be modest compared to mainline entries, Ishin! demonstrates the series' ability to experiment with new settings and ideas.
The game's combat system, which allows players to switch between four fighting styles on the fly, was praised for its depth and variety. This mechanic would later influence the combat systems in subsequent Yakuza titles, showcasing Ishin!'s importance in the franchise's evolution.
9. Yakuza 4 (~500,000 Copies Sold)
Yakuza 4 marked a significant departure for the series by introducing multiple playable characters. This fresh approach brought new depth to the gameplay, allowing players to experience Kamurocho through different perspectives.
The game introduced fan-favorite characters like Shun Akiyama, the smooth-talking moneylender, and Taiga Saejima, the brooding ex-convict, expanding the Yakuza universe in exciting ways. Each character brought their unique fighting style and storyline, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
Yakuza 4 also introduced the rooftop areas of Kamurocho, expanding the game's vertical exploration. This addition made the city feel more alive and three-dimensional, a feature that would become standard in future entries.
8. Yakuza 5 (~700,000 Copies Sold)
Building on the foundation laid by its predecessor, Yakuza 5 took the multi-character approach to new heights. Each protagonist received their own major sidequest, adding layers of depth to the already rich narrative.
Yakuza 5's ambitious scope included five playable characters across five different Japanese cities, making it one of the largest and most diverse entries in the series. The game also introduced a variety of mini-games and side activities, including taxi driving, hunting, and even idol management.
Despite its relatively modest sales figures, Yakuza 5 is often cited by fans as one of the best entries in the series. Its expansive world and intricate storylines set a new standard for the franchise, influencing the development of future titles.
7. Yakuza: Like a Dragon (~700,000+ Copies Sold)
Note: This figure is likely underestimated due to limited data and the game's ongoing popularity.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon represents a bold new direction for the series. Introducing a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and a turn-based combat system, this entry breathed fresh life into the franchise.
The game's RPG-inspired combat system was a radical departure from the series' traditional beat 'em up gameplay. This change was initially met with skepticism but ultimately proved successful, earning praise for its depth and strategic elements.
Like a Dragon's success has secured Ichiban's return in future installments, cementing its place as a pivotal entry in the Yakuza saga. The game's exploration of themes like homelessness and societal outcasts also garnered critical acclaim, showcasing the series' ability to tackle serious issues alongside its signature humor.
6. Yakuza 3 (~800,000 Copies Sold)
Yakuza 3 marked the series' debut on the PlayStation 3, bringing with it a significant graphical upgrade. This entry took a more slice-of-life approach, focusing on protagonist Kazuma Kiryu's day-to-day life running an orphanage in Okinawa.
The game's shift in tone allowed for more character development, particularly for Kiryu, whose paternal side was explored in depth. Yakuza 3 also introduced the popular revelations system, where Kiryu learns new moves by observing and participating in quirky scenarios around the city.
While praised for its emotional storytelling, Yakuza 3's gameplay feels somewhat dated compared to more recent entries, especially in light of the Kiwami remakes. Nevertheless, it remains an important chapter in the series' evolution, laying the groundwork for the more refined experiences that would follow.
5. Yakuza 6: The Song of Life (~1,000,000 Copies Sold)
Yakuza 6 served as the emotional finale to Kazuma Kiryu's saga. Developed on the new Dragon Engine, it boasted improved graphics and more fluid action than its predecessors.
The game's technological advancements were significant, featuring seamless transitions between exploration and combat, as well as more interactive environments. The introduction of the Clan Creator mini-game, which later evolved into a standalone mobile game, showcased the series' potential for expanding beyond its core gameplay.
As the culmination of Kiryu's story, The Song of Life delivered some of the most poignant moments in the series. Its sales figures, hovering around the million mark, reflect its significance as a landmark title in the Yakuza franchise.
4. Judgment (~1,000,000+ Copies Sold)
While not a direct entry in the Yakuza series, Judgment shares its setting and core gameplay elements. This spin-off follows private detective Takayuki Yagami, offering a fresh perspective on the familiar streets of Kamurocho.
Judgment's unique blend of detective work and action gameplay resonated with fans, pushing it past the million-copy milestone. The game introduced new investigation mechanics, including tailing suspects, picking locks, and using a drone for reconnaissance.
The success of Judgment led to a sequel, Lost Judgment, further expanding this sub-franchise within the Yakuza universe. However, recent reports have cast doubt on future installments due to disagreements between SEGA and the talent agency representing Takuya Kimura, the actor who portrays Yagami.
3. Yakuza 2 (and Kiwami 2) (~1,300,000 Copies Sold)
As the second mainline entry and recipient of a full remake, Yakuza 2 secures a high spot on our list. The original release expanded the series' scope with new locations and memorable villains, while Kiwami 2 enhanced the experience with updated graphics and additional content.
Yakuza 2 introduced players to Osaka's Sotenbori district, which would become a recurring location in the series. The game also featured one of the franchise's most iconic antagonists, Ryuji Goda, whose rivalry with Kiryu is often cited as a series highlight.
Kiwami 2, built on the Dragon Engine, not only improved the game's visuals but also added substantial new content, including a playable campaign featuring fan-favorite character Goro Majima. The combined sales of both versions demonstrate Yakuza 2's enduring popularity and its importance to the overall franchise.
2. Yakuza (and Kiwami) (~1,500,000 Copies Sold)
The game that started it all, Yakuza and its remake Yakuza Kiwami, claim the second spot on our list. This title introduced players to the gritty world of Kamurocho and the stoic hero Kazuma Kiryu.
The original Yakuza, released in 2005, was a technological marvel for its time, featuring detailed character models and a densely packed open world. Its unique blend of serious crime drama and over-the-top action laid the foundation for the entire series.
Yakuza Kiwami, released in 2016, rebuilt the game from the ground up using the engine from Yakuza 0. It added new story elements, expanded side content, and refined the combat system, introducing the "Majima Everywhere" system that became an instant fan favorite.
1. Yakuza 0 (~2,000,000 Copies Sold)
Taking the top spot is Yakuza 0, the prequel that many consider the best entry point to the series. Set in the opulent 1980s, this game explores the origins of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima, two of the franchise's most iconic characters.
Yakuza 0 refined the series' gameplay systems to near perfection, offering a vast array of side content alongside its gripping main story. The game's two distinct fighting styles for each character, which could be switched on the fly, added a new layer of depth to the combat.
The game's representation of 1980s Japan, complete with vibrant neon-lit streets and a booming economy, was praised for its attention to detail. Yakuza 0's portrayal of the era's excesses, both in its story and gameplay mechanics like the real estate and cabaret club management mini-games, resonated strongly with players.
Its commercial and critical success played a significant role in boosting the franchise's popularity in Western markets, paving the way for future localizations and simultaneous worldwide releases for subsequent titles.
Conclusion
The Yakuza series has come a long way since its humble beginnings on the PlayStation 2. While these sales figures may not be entirely accurate due to limited data and the series' growing popularity, they offer valuable insight into the franchise's journey and impact on the gaming industry.
From Japan-exclusive spin-offs to genre-defying new entries, each game has contributed to the rich tapestry of the Yakuza universe. The series has consistently pushed boundaries, not just in terms of gameplay and storytelling, but also in its technological advancements and cultural representation.
As the franchise continues to evolve with entries like Yakuza: Like a Dragon and potential future spin-offs, it's exciting to imagine what heights it might reach. The series' ability to reinvent itself while staying true to its core themes of honor, loyalty, and redemption has ensured its longevity and growing fanbase.
Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, there's never been a better time to dive into the world of Yakuza. With its blend of intense drama, absurd humor, and heartfelt storytelling, this series offers an experience unlike any other in gaming. As we look forward to future installments, one thing is certain: the world of Yakuza will continue to surprise, delight, and captivate players for years to come.
