How Yakuza 0’s Two Stories in Two Cities Set the Beat-Em-Up Standard

Yakuza 0 drops players into 1988 Tokyo, and it never lets them forget it. Sega’s prequel to the Yakuza series pairs two main characters across two decades, and the result is one of the most confident open-world games ever made for PS3, PS4, PC and XONE.

Trailer, via IGDBcom.

Two Cities, One Story

The game splits its action between Kamurocho in 1988 and Sotenbori in 2008. Players bounce between both timelines, following the lives of Taiga Saejima and Kazuma Kiryu. The switch keeps the pacing fresh, and it gives the story room to breathe across two very different eras of Japanese history.

Combat That Works

Fights in Yakuza 0 lean on the series’ signature beat-’em-up style. Players can chain combos, throw enemies, and break through attacks with careful timing. The system rewards patience, and it punishes careless button presses. Boss fights stand out, especially those that force players to manage stamina and guard.

A City Worth Walking Through

Kamurocho and Sotenbori are dense, detailed recreations of Tokyo. Side quests fill the streets, and hidden collectibles reward players who explore. The game’s design encourages wandering, and it rarely feels like busywork.

Music That Sets the Mood

The soundtrack moves between synth-heavy tracks and period-appropriate rock. It sets the tone for each era without becoming repetitive. The voice acting carries weight, especially in scenes where the two timelines converge.

Where It Falls Short

Some side content feels thin compared to later entries in the series. A few loading screens drag during fast-travel sequences. These are minor complaints, but they stand out after spending dozens of hours in the game.

Ranking the Best Moments

1. The reveal of Kiryu’s past in 2008
2. The final boss fight in 1988
3. The moment the two timelines finally connect
4. The ending, which closes the loop on both characters

A story that spans two decades and two cities, told with confidence.

What Remains

Yakuza 0 earns its place as one of the best games in the series. Its combat, setting and character work hold up across multiple playthroughs. The pacing drags in a few spots, but the core loop remains strong.

Final Word

Yakuza 0 scores 8.6 of 10.

beat-em-up · open world · PS4 · Sega · Yakuza 0