If you’re a fan of the Yakuza series and looking for similar games to dive into, you’re in luck. This article presents a list of games that capture the essence of Yakuza, offering thrilling gameplay experiences, intriguing narratives, and captivating characters.
Whether you’re a fan of the crime drama, the sandbox exploration, or the character-driven storytelling, these games will surely keep you entertained for hours on end. So, without further ado, let’s explore these 20 games like Yakuza!
Sleeping Dogs
When it comes to games similar to Yakuza, one title that often finds its way into discussions is “Sleeping Dogs.” This open-world action-adventure game takes place in the bustling and vibrant city of Hong Kong, where players assume the role of Wei Shen, an undercover cop.
As Wei Shen, you find yourself caught in a delicate balancing act between your loyalty to the police force and the relationships you form within the dangerous Triad criminal organization.
The game immerses you in a world where trust is a luxury and betrayal can have dire consequences.
Players can engage in hand-to-hand combat, utilizing a combination of martial arts moves and environmental objects to take down enemies.
The game boasts an engaging storyline that delves into the complexities of Wei Shen’s character. As you progress through the game, you’ll witness his internal struggle and the toll that his double life takes on him.
The narrative is filled with twists and turns, keeping players on the edge of their seats.
With its gripping storyline, intense combat, and the allure of the chaotic city of Hong Kong, Sleeping Dogs is an excellent choice for Yakuza fans craving a similar experience.
Shenmue Series
No article about games like Yakuza would be complete without mentioning the Shenmue series. Created by Yu Suzuki, this iconic series set the benchmark for open-world exploration, immersive storytelling, and dynamic gameplay.
Originally released for the Sega Dreamcast, the first two games follow the journey of Ryo Hazuki as he seeks revenge for his father’s murder.
The expansive cities, attention to detail, and the ability to interact with the world make Shenmue a must-play for fans of Yakuza’s immersive environments and captivating narratives.
Every object in the game world has its own purpose and can be interacted with. Players can examine countless items, talk to various NPCs, and even engage in mini-games and side quests.
This level of interactivity adds depth to the gameplay and allows players to truly feel like they are a part of the world.
The narrative unfolds in a cinematic manner, with well-developed characters and intricate plotlines. As players guide Ryo Hazuki on his quest for vengeance, they will encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets.
Shenmue’s impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. It paved the way for future open-world games, influencing titles like Grand Theft Auto and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Judgment
Developed by the same team behind Yakuza, “Judgment” brings a fresh take on the crime drama genre. Set in the fictional district of Kamurocho, players step into the shoes of Takayuki Yagami, a disgraced lawyer turned private detective.
The investigative gameplay in “Judgment” is a standout feature that sets it apart from other crime dramas.
Players will have to use their keen observation skills to search for clues, analyze evidence, and interrogate suspects.
The game presents a variety of puzzles and challenges that require logical thinking and deductive reasoning, making each investigation a thrilling and engaging experience.
The game boasts a compelling storyline that keeps players on the edge of their seats. Yagami’s journey is filled with twists and turns, as he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that reaches the highest echelons of society.
The narrative explores themes of justice, redemption, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience.
“Judgment” is a game that offers a distinct Yakuza-like experience while pushing the boundaries of the crime drama genre.
With its gritty noir atmosphere, engaging investigative gameplay, compelling storyline, and a cast of memorable characters, it is a must-play for fans of the genre and newcomers alike.
Lost Judgment
Building upon the success of its predecessor, “Lost Judgment” continues the story of Takayuki Yagami in another thrilling crime-solving adventure. This time, Yagami finds himself embroiled in a sinister conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of society.
The combat in “Lost Judgment” is as intense as ever, with Yagami utilizing his unique martial arts skills to take down adversaries with precision and style.
Players will have access to a wide range of fighting techniques, allowing them to tailor their combat style to their preferences.
The storytelling in this sequel is deep and immersive, with intricate plot twists and compelling character development.
As players explore the world of “Lost Judgment,” they will encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets.
With its intense combat, deep storytelling, and a wide array of side activities that rival those found in Yakuza, “Lost Judgment” is a game that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of the Yakuza series.
Mafia Series
For those who enjoy the criminal underworld, the Mafia series is a must-play. This franchise spans multiple games, each offering a different perspective on organized crime throughout different eras in history.
From the bustling streets of 1930s New York City in “Mafia: Definitive Edition” to the vibrant city of New Bordeaux in “Mafia III,” these games provide players with engaging narratives, realistic open-world environments, and thrilling missions that draw inspiration from iconic crime films.
Red Dead Redemption 2
While the setting and time period may differ from Yakuza, “Red Dead Redemption 2” shares many similarities when it comes to its immersive world and compelling characters.
Set in the vast open-world of the American frontier during the decline of the Wild West, this epic tale follows Arthur Morgan, a member of the notorious Van der Linde gang.
As you explore the beautifully crafted landscapes, engage in thrilling shootouts, and interact with a diverse cast of characters, you’ll find that the depth of storytelling and immersive gameplay found in Red Dead Redemption 2 resonates with the Yakuza series.
L.A. Noire
L.A. Noire takes players back to the crime-ridden streets of 1940s Los Angeles, where you assume the role of Detective Cole Phelps.
This detective thriller offers a unique blend of open-world exploration, intense interrogations, and captivating storytelling, encapsulating the feeling of being a detective in a noir-inspired world.
With its attention to detail, engaging investigations, and a richly textured recreation of 1940s Los Angeles, L.A. Noire offers a gaming experience that Yakuza fans are sure to appreciate.
The Saboteur
Breaking away from the Asian setting that Yakuza fans are familiar with, “The Saboteur” transports players to Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II.
As an Irish race car mechanic turned resistance fighter, you must liberate the city district by district, while unraveling a story of revenge and redemption.
With its beautiful recreation of 1940s Paris, engaging stealth and action gameplay, and a compelling narrative, The Saboteur offers a unique experience that complements the intense storytelling found in Yakuza.
A Way Out
For those who enjoy the cooperative aspect of the Yakuza series, “A Way Out” is a game worth checking out.
Developed by Hazelight Studios, this unique co-op experience tells the story of two prisoners, Leo and Vincent, as they plan their escape from prison and seek revenge on those who wronged them.
With its emphasis on teamwork, thrilling action sequences, and an engaging narrative that explores the complexities of the characters’ relationship, A Way Out delivers a memorable co-op experience that Yakuza fans will appreciate.
Max Payne 3
If you’re a fan of Yakuza’s intense combat and gritty storytelling, “Max Payne 3” should be on your radar.
Developed by Rockstar Games, this third-person shooter follows the titular character, Max Payne, as he battles his inner demons while navigating a web of crime and corruption in São Paulo, Brazil.
With its cinematic presentation, adrenaline-fueled gunfights, and a gripping narrative that explores themes of redemption, Max Payne 3 provides a thrilling experience that echoes the intensity found in the Yakuza series.
Watch Dogs Series
The Watch Dogs series takes the player into the world of hacking and surveillance, where they control a skilled hacker seeking justice.
With its open-world environment and engaging storyline, the Watch Dogs series provides a similar gameplay experience to Yakuza, filled with crime, mystery, and thrilling combat sequences.
In the Watch Dogs series, players step into the shoes of Aiden Pearce, a highly skilled hacker with a troubled past. Set in a near-future version of Chicago, the game immerses players in a sprawling open-world cityscape, where every connected device becomes a potential tool for hacking and manipulation.
As players navigate through the city, they will encounter a wide range of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets.
Players can use their hacking skills to manipulate the city’s infrastructure, gaining access to security cameras, traffic lights, and even personal devices.
This opens up a world of possibilities, allowing players to create distractions, manipulate enemy movements, and gather valuable information.
The Watch Dogs series also offers intense combat sequences, where players can engage in gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, and stealth takedowns.
With its immersive gameplay, richly detailed world, and thought-provoking narrative, the Watch Dogs series has captivated players around the world.
GTA Series
Grand Theft Auto, or GTA, is a legendary open-world game series that needs no introduction. With its richly detailed cities, immersive storytelling, and a vast array of criminal activities, the GTA series offers a Yakuza-like experience that keeps players hooked from start to finish.
One of the most iconic aspects of the GTA series is its meticulously crafted cities. From the bustling streets of Liberty City to the sun-soaked beaches of Vice City, each location in the game feels like a living, breathing world.
The attention to detail is astounding, with every building, street, and pedestrian contributing to the overall atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the neon-lit streets of Los Santos or navigating the winding roads of San Fierro, the cities in GTA are a joy to explore.
From stealing cars and engaging in high-speed chases to participating in heists and running a criminal empire, the GTA series offers players a chance to live out their wildest criminal fantasies.
The games provide a sense of freedom and agency, allowing players to choose their own path and shape their own criminal empire.
The GTA series is a true gaming phenomenon. With its richly detailed cities, immersive storytelling, and a vast array of criminal activities, the games offer a Yakuza-like experience that keeps players hooked from start to finish.
Whether you’re exploring the meticulously crafted cities, engaging in thrilling criminal activities, or indulging in the numerous side activities, the GTA series provides endless hours of entertainment.
Nioh Series
Step into the shoes of a skilled samurai in the Nioh series, battling hordes of enemies and powerful bosses in mesmerizing feudal Japan settings.
With its deep combat system, challenging gameplay, and captivating story, the Nioh series provides an immersive experience reminiscent of Yakuza’s action-packed adventures.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of feudal Japan as you embark on an epic journey through the Nioh series.
As you traverse the stunning environments, you’ll encounter a wide variety of enemies, each with their own unique abilities and fighting styles. From fearsome samurais to supernatural Yokai creatures, the Nioh series offers a diverse range of adversaries to test your skills against.
Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese martial arts, the game offers a wide array of weapons, including katanas, spears, and axes, each with its own distinct playstyle.
With its stunning visuals, deep combat system, and engrossing story, the Nioh series is a must-play for fans of action-adventure games and lovers of Japanese culture.
Ghost of Tsushima
Travel back in time to ancient Japan with Ghost of Tsushima, an open-world game that allows players to explore a visually stunning island while honing their samurai skills.
With its breathtaking landscapes, intense combat, and gripping narrative, Ghost of Tsushima is a must-play for any fan of the Yakuza series.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of feudal Japan as you take on the role of Jin Sakai, a skilled samurai warrior. Set in the late 13th century, during the Mongol invasion of Tsushima Island, the game offers a meticulously crafted world that captures the essence of the era.
As you traverse the vast open world, you’ll encounter various characters who will shape Jin’s journey. From wise mentors to cunning enemies, each interaction adds depth to the narrative and presents opportunities for character development.
Master the art of the katana and engage in intense sword fights with skilled adversaries. Utilize stealth to your advantage, blending into the environment and striking your enemies with deadly precision.
With its stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, and captivating storyline, Ghost of Tsushima is a true masterpiece that transports players to a world filled with honor, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice.
The Way of the Samurai Series
The Way of the Samurai series offers a unique blend of action, exploration, and decision-making, allowing players to shape the story based on their choices.
With its immersive world and intriguing characters, this series captures the essence of Yakuza’s deep narrative and morally complex gameplay.
Binary Domain
Set in a dystopian future, Binary Domain follows a team of elite soldiers fighting against an army of humanoid robots.
With its intense firefights, thought-provoking storyline, and deep character development, Binary Domain provides a Yakuza-like experience that focuses on both action and storytelling.
Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise
Embark on a post-apocalyptic journey in Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise, where players embody Kenshiro, a powerful martial artist seeking his lost love.
With its brutal combat, captivating world, and immersive side activities, this game offers a Yakuza-like experience set in a desolate wasteland.
River City Ransom
For fans of retro beat ’em up games, River City Ransom is a must-play. This classic title allows players to explore an open city, engaging in intense street fights and leveling up their character’s stats.
With its nostalgic charm and satisfying gameplay, River City Ransom captures the essence of Yakuza’s combat-focused gameplay.
Mad Max
Set in a lawless desert wasteland, Mad Max immerses players in a world filled with vehicular combat, epic battles, and survival elements.
With its open-world exploration, intense car chases, and captivating storyline, Mad Max offers a Yakuza-like experience in a unique post-apocalyptic setting.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the games that share similarities with the Yakuza series. Each title offers its own unique twist on the action-adventure genre, providing hours of immersive gameplay and captivating storytelling.
Whether you’re a fan of crime-filled cities, ancient Japan, or dystopian futures, this list has something for everyone. So grab your controller and get ready to embark on thrilling adventures that will keep you entertained for hours on end!
