Released back in March in Japan, Atlus has announced that Yakuza 0 will make the trek to North America PlayStation 4 consoles in 2016. News of the stateside port was revealed during today’s PlayStation Experience keynote.
Set in Tokyo in December 1988, Yakuza 0 serves as a prequel to the first entry in the franchise. Before he became the Dragon of Dojima, series protagonist Kazuma Kiryu was just another low-level gang member. Following a botched debt collection that ended in death, Kiryu is looking to regain his honor, and continue his climb up the ranks of the Yakuza. Kazuma isn’t the only one looking to make amends, though, as Goro Majima, the Mad Dog of Shimano, is seeking a return to the Yakuza as well. Both protagonists will feature their own unique fighting styles and abilities.
As per usual for the franchise, the game will let players do what they please on the mean streets of Tokyo. The 1980s were a period of decadence, and both Kazuma and Goro can get in on the action. There will be plenty of opportunities to not only earn cash, but also several ways to make sure that money is spent in the most ridiculous ways possible.
In addition to the news of the Yakuza 0 North American release, it was also announced that Yakuza 5 will launch next week in North America and Europe for the PlayStation 3. Originally announced for a Western release last year, the game serves as a direct sequel to Yakuza 4. Taking place over five different cities, franchise star Kiryu is joined by five additional playable characters. Each of the five protagonists has been involved with the Yakuza in the past, and now they are all being drawn back in.
While no release date has been confirmed, we will continue to have coverage of Yakuza 0 in the lead-up to its North American release next year. In the meantime, we can all get ready by experiencing the world of Yakuza 5 for the first time in English.
