Yakuza: Every Game Ranked From Worst To Best
5. Yakuza 4
Feeling like a direct response to part 3’s languid pacing, this entry went full-blown blockbuster, with non-stop action and big set-pieces spread across a multi-character campaign (a first for the series). It was the breath of fresh air the series needed, even if its new design led to some stumbles.
The sped-up pacing was a bit relentless; once you had the chance to familiarise one of the character's move-sets and upgrade them to a satisfying place, the campaign swished you over to the next person. Also, each of the characters had a wildly different approach to fighting, with tough sections giving little forgiveness if their style wasn't your preference.
Still, limiting Kazuma's time made for a more a captivating plot, as you examine his character from an outsider perspective and build anticipation for his return in the last act.
The rest of the cast is a bit of a mixed bag though; Saejima is a dull version of Kiryu (although he sports the best story) and Tanimura is a pop-idol lookalike in a standard cop revenge deal. Yet, high-kicking Akiyama is a true revelation; charming, witty and warm, he manages to steal the game with his segment.
Still, it narrowed down to some mind-numbingly dumb decisions in the final act (rubber bullets???), but this was a fun and fast shake-up of the series that gave it the necessary energy boost going forward.