Do I Play Yakuza 0 Before Kiwami? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of whether to start with Yakuza 0 or Yakuza Kiwami is a common one for newcomers to the acclaimed Yakuza series. While the release order might suggest Kiwami (being a remake of the first game), the chronological timeline positions 0 as the very beginning. So, should you play Yakuza 0 before Kiwami? The short answer is: yes, for the best overall experience, it is highly recommended to play Yakuza 0 before Yakuza Kiwami. This recommendation stems from multiple factors that enrich your understanding of the series, its characters, and the overall narrative. Let’s delve deeper into why that is the preferred approach.
Why Start With Yakuza 0?
Chronological Narrative
The most compelling reason to start with Yakuza 0 is its placement within the timeline. Yakuza 0 is a prequel set in 1988, seventeen years before the events of the first Yakuza game (remade as Kiwami), which takes place in 2005. This chronological order allows you to witness the origins of key characters like Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima, understanding their motivations, relationships, and the circumstances that shaped them into the individuals seen in later games, including Kiwami. Playing in this order creates a smooth flow through the story, and you avoid potential spoilers or plot reveals that are better experienced in their intended order.
Enhanced Emotional Resonance
By playing Yakuza 0 first, you establish a strong emotional connection with the characters and their pasts. When you transition to Yakuza Kiwami, you will see familiar faces and references that will resonate deeply. Certain moments and character interactions in Kiwami will carry significantly more weight and emotional impact because of your understanding of their past, their struggles, and how they came to be from the events in Yakuza 0. This heightened emotional engagement significantly enriches the experience of Kiwami and provides a greater appreciation for the overarching narrative.
Introduction to the World and Mechanics
Yakuza 0 serves as an excellent introduction to the world of Yakuza. It immerses you in the vibrant, albeit dangerous, districts of Kamurocho and Sotenbori during the late 1980s. This is valuable context that might feel less meaningful if you jump straight into Kiwami. Moreover, while some of the gameplay mechanics are updated in the remake of Kiwami, the core elements remain similar. Playing 0 first allows you to learn the combat system and the various mini-games and side quests at a slightly more gradual pace, preparing you for the challenges of Kiwami.
Avoiding Spoilers
While both are great starting points, playing Kiwami first can spoil some major plot points and character arcs from 0, diluting some of the reveals that are more impactful when experienced in chronological order. Though the reference to the future games in 0 are minimal, playing Kiwami first can make those a little more confusing.
Why Some Might Consider Starting with Kiwami
Experiencing the Original Story
While less recommended, some players might prefer starting with Kiwami to experience the original Yakuza storyline first. Playing Kiwami before 0 does offer a unique perspective, akin to watching the backstory of a beloved character after knowing their present. This can still be an enjoyable approach for those seeking a different experience.
Linear Game Play and Accessibility
Kiwami is generally considered a slightly shorter game to complete than Yakuza 0, which may be an attractive feature for players looking for a quicker introduction to the series before diving into the lengthier prequels. The slightly faster pace of Kiwami might suit some who wish to experience a complete game narrative before going into a deeper, more detailed backstory.
Retroactive Impact
Some players may enjoy the retroactive impact of playing 0 after Kiwami, allowing them to appreciate how the prequel enhances the earlier stories. It’s almost like seeing the “behind the scenes” of a story they already enjoyed.
In Conclusion: 0 Before Kiwami Is The Way To Go
While both games offer their own merits, playing Yakuza 0 before Yakuza Kiwami is the most optimal path for most players. It allows you to experience the series in chronological order, strengthens the emotional impact of later games, eases you into the world and its mechanics, and avoids potential spoilers. If you want to get the most out of the series, starting with Yakuza 0 is undoubtedly the best first step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Yakuza 0 the first game in the series chronologically?
Yes, Yakuza 0 is the earliest game in the timeline, set in 1988, preceding all the other main entries.
2. What is Yakuza Kiwami?
Yakuza Kiwami is a remake of the original Yakuza game released on the PlayStation 2. It features updated graphics, gameplay, and additional story elements.
3. Is Yakuza 0 a standalone game?
While Yakuza 0 can be enjoyed independently, its story and character arcs are heavily intertwined with the rest of the series. Starting with it does set you up with all of the background for other games in the series.
4. How long does it take to beat Yakuza 0?
Yakuza 0 takes about 31.5 hours to complete the main story, but a 100% completion run can take around 140 hours or more.
5. Is Yakuza 0 longer than Kiwami?
Yes, Yakuza 0 is significantly longer than Yakuza Kiwami, due to its side content and a more detailed story.
6. Is Yakuza Kiwami harder than Yakuza 0?
Some players find Yakuza Kiwami to be slightly harder than Yakuza 0, but this can vary depending on playstyle and difficulty settings.
7. Is Yakuza 0 considered the best Yakuza game?
Yakuza 0 is frequently considered one of the best games in the series, lauded for its engaging story, compelling characters, and diverse gameplay.
8. Does Yakuza Kiwami have major changes from the original?
Yes, Yakuza Kiwami has significant graphical upgrades, gameplay improvements, and new story content that tie it closer to Yakuza 0.
9. Can you play as Majima in Kiwami 1?
While Goro Majima has an increased presence in Yakuza Kiwami, he is not playable in this entry, but aids Kiryu to become a stronger fighter.
10. What does “Kiwami” mean?
In Japanese, “Kiwami” means “ultimate” or “the pinnacle,” reflecting the game’s intention to be the definitive version of the first Yakuza title.
11. Should I play Yakuza Kiwami after 0?
Absolutely, Yakuza Kiwami should be played after Yakuza 0 for the best chronological and emotional flow.
12. Is Yakuza 0 a good starting point for the series?
Yakuza 0 is widely considered to be an excellent starting point for new players due to its early position in the timeline and accessibility.
13. Will playing Kiwami first ruin the experience of 0?
Playing Kiwami first might not ruin it, but playing Yakuza 0 first will certainly give you a better experience and appreciation of the story.
14. How many main Yakuza games are there?
As of 2023, there are eight main Yakuza games in the mainline series.
15. Is Yakuza: Like a Dragon a good starting point?
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is somewhat standalone and could be considered an alternative starting point, but it is best to begin with Yakuza 0 to understand the overall narrative.