Yakuza 5

Even though the Yakuza series has a huge fan base outside of the Japanese market, it really takes a long time to get them localized. Today we'll talk about Yakuza 5, a game that delayed so much that the Japanese market got two more releases in the series before this one got to other markets. If you had to describe Yakuza to an outsider it would probably be something like a mafia game with RPG and elements and an incredible story. You could even try to compare it a little to Grand Theft Auto games, but everyone that has played the series will know that it's not a real one-to-one comparison possible.

Since Yakuza is a game heavily driven by the story and plot, we'll avoid spoiling the game here, so there won't be much said about that aspect. Now, without further ado, let's get started with this!

Narrative and storytelling

The Yakuza series has one of the best narratives in the gaming world, and Yakuza 5 is among the best of those, THe story develops more and more, and the events in this game are key to the bigger picture of the story. We get to know the usual characters more, and many new ones that will make things much more interesting than they already were.

But even with how story-driven this game is, you can actually play it and enjoy it without playing any other game in the series before this one. Most of the key elements are basically explained so that you get the grapes of what’s going on. Still, we always recommend that you play the other games in the series.

Gameplay

There's not much new to say about the game gameplay-wise. There are more mini-games than usual and the fights are much more fluid. But otherwise, as far as navigation and interaction go, it's about the same as before. Which is by no means a negative thing, since the Yakuza series has developed unique and incredible gameplay.

The four main characters you can play as have entirely different combat styles, and depending on the moment you’re playing, you'll have to adapt your gameplay style too.

Be whatever you want to be

Now, of course, this game doesn't let you choose a career or anything like that, but it will have you playing in many different scenarios. In some missions, you get to be a taxi driver, and in your free time, you can be an idol in karaoke. There are so many minigames that it's impossible to get bored while exploring the city in Yakuza 5.

Yakuza 5 is possibly one of the best entries in the series, with more mini-games and improved gameplay that will make up for a much more complete experience. The fights are fluid and nice-looking now, and the controls have improved a lot since the earlier Yakuza games.

Pros

• Improved from the past game
• Excellent world-building
• Fun gameplay
• Deep story
• Amazing characters
• Great design
• Excellent soundtrack
• Varied gameplay

Cons

• The visuals are starting to fall short for the game.
• There could be more fully voiced interactions in the game.