Should I Play Yakuza 0 First?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You are new to the Yakuza series and want to experience the story chronologically, starting with the game’s polished early‑1990s setting.
• Good fit: You enjoy open‑world action‑adventure games and want to explore the dual protagonists, Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima, without juggling later‑game mechanics.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: You already own several later Yakuza titles and prefer to jump straight to the newer gameplay systems and story arcs.
• Warning sign: You have limited storage or hardware that struggles with the game’s graphics and performance requirements.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• High‑quality narrative that introduces key characters and series‑defining themes.
• Varied gameplay mix of beat‑em up combat, mini‑games, and side quests that remain engaging despite the game’s age.

Cons

• Older combat system can feel clunkier compared to later entries, which may deter players accustomed to modern mechanics.
• The game’s length is substantial, so starting here delays access to the newer, more refined titles.

Decision Checklist

• Do I want to experience the Yakuza story in chronological order?
• Am I comfortable with slightly dated combat and graphics?
• Do I have the time and storage to accommodate a game that runs around 30‑40 hours?

Alternatives to Consider

If you prefer a more modern entry point, consider starting with Yakuza Kiwami 2 or Yakuza: Like a Dragon, which both offer updated combat and story retellings while still providing series context.

Final Recommendation

For newcomers who value narrative continuity and want to meet the series’ iconic characters early, playing Yakuza 0 first is a solid choice. Players already familiar with later titles or who prioritize the latest mechanics may want to start elsewhere. As always, weigh your preferences and hardware constraints before deciding.