TheYakuzaseries is known for its captivating narratives and dynamic protagonists, but its villains are just as formidable and memorable. Withnumerous titles in the series, each with its own cast of interesting characters, it’s clear that the excellence of the series extends beyond the heroes.
Like A Dragon Gaiden: 10 Tips & Tricks For Beginners
If you need some help starting out in Like A Dragon Gaiden, this list has you covered!
Yakuza’s antagonists are a diverse group with distinct goals, intricate personalities, and complex backstories. From their memorable appearances to their impact on the game’s narrative, these villains leave an indelible mark on the intricate tapestry of each title.
SPOILER ALERT!! This article contains spoilers on multiple Yakuza titles!!!
10Keiji Shibusawa
The One Who Wanted The Dragon’s Title
Keiji Shibusawais a formidable antagonist in Yakuza 0, earning his place as a great and badass villain. Hiscalculatingandruthlessdemeanor propels him up the hierarchy, showcasing arelentless pursuit of his goals. Shibusawa’s ascent is punctuated by one of the game’sstandout boss fights, featuring a compelling soundtrack and a formidable moveset.
You’re not the only one with a dragon on his back, boy. I’ll kill you, surpass Kazama, and become the Dragon of Dojima!
Despite his prowess, Shibusawa, like many others, ultimately meets defeat, unable to surpass the formidable villains within Yakuza 0. His presence adds a layer of intensity and challenge to the narrative, solidifying him as a noteworthy and memorable adversary in the Yakuza universe.
9Takumi Someya
The Ruthless Yakuza With A Soft Heart For His Daughter
In the opening act ofYakuza 6, the introduction ofTakumi Someyaimmediately triggers a sense ofdistrust. Beyond being a mere adversary to Kiryu, Someya emerges as a character driven bygrand aspirations. He strives to redefine the Yakuza, breaking free from traditions to elevate his family’s prosperity.
Promise me. Promise me… you’ll take care of her. I need to hear it. Nagumo!
However, the narrative takes a heart-wrenching turn when hisdaughterbecomes a pawn,kidnappedto coerce Someya into assassinating Kiryu. As he fails to do so, Someya’s desperate attempt to appease his daughter’s captors results in one of the saddest and most impactful deaths in the Yakuza series, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the game’s narrative. Forfeiting the modern yakuza style he pursued, Someya commitsseppuku, while asking for his daughter’s safety.
8Hiroki Awano
The Hedonistic Yakuza
Hiroki Awanois a character in the Yakuza series who is often overlooked. However, he surprises players with his depth andmenacingnature. Although he may seem forgettable at first, Awano quickly reveals himself to bematerialisticandsadistic. His boss fight is accompanied by a fantasticsoundtrackthat showcases his power and brutality. He’s even able to break through walls.
Now how’s about we have some fun here?
In Yakuza 0, Awano admits that he became involved with the yakuza to indulge in ahedonistic lifestyle. He enjoys eating and buying whatever he desires. Despite his formidable presence, he decides not to climb the ranks and instead relishes his current status. Unfortunately, Awano’s time is cut short when he’skilled by assassins, leaving players to ponder the complex layers beneath his initially forgettable exterior.
7Tsukasa Sagawa
Sarcastic Enigma
Tsukasa Sagawamasterfully earns players' disdain through hisviolentandslimynature. As akey figure in Majima’s story, he orchestrates the demise of intriguing characters, cementing his importance. Despite lacking a boss fight, Sagawa’s impactful role is felt.
10 Best Anime To Watch If You Like Yakuza
If you are itching to dive deeper into some of the themes present in the Yakuza games, you should give these anime a try.
Makes You Wonder What The Hell Money Even Is.
Hisrelentless pursuit of authorityover others, especially Majima, manipulating payments, and orchestrating uncomfortable encounters, showcases a fixation on control. Asarcasticenigma, Sagawa remains impossible to understand. This dynamic with Majima cements Sagawa’s place among top villains, illustrating the compelling interplay between the two characters.
6Homare Nishitani
Sadomasochistic Villain
From a young age,Nishitaniexhibited asadomasochisticinclination, and when he sets a goal, he’s relentless in his pursuit, especially when targeting someone likeGoro Majima. Despite his eccentricities, Nishitani’sloyalty to his followersmakes him an idol in their eyes. Preferring fistfights, he mocks those who rely on weapons, though he does find satisfaction in wielding a knife.
Bust as many skulls as you can…And ya best have a blast doin' it!
His character design andvoice actingbreathe life into his persona, making him a standout in the Yakuza universe. Nishitani’s ending stands as one of the best, showcasing his ultimate sacrifice for Majima, while also trying to avenge his fallen uncle. The scene in front of the prison cell is a poignant conclusion to a character defined by his peculiarities and unwavering loyalty.
5Ryuji Goda
The Dragon Of Kansai
Ryuji Godais a character who derives his greatness from a unique combination ofhonorandsimplicity. He firmly believes thatthere can be only one dragonand therefore challenges Kiryu. His unyielding devotion to his family, especially hissister, adds depth to his character, and touching memories of moments spent with his mother reveal a softer side to him.
A real man…oughta be a little stupid.
What sets Goda apart is his distinctive fighting style, which makes him all the more fascinating. He starts off unarmed but quickly escalates to wielding akatanawhen the situation demands it. Ryuji Goda’s principles of honor, loyalty to family, and captivating combat style contribute to his status as a memorable and multifaceted antagonist in the Yakuza franchise.
4Yoshitaka Mine
Calculating Safekeeper Of The Tojo Clan
Yoshitaka Mineis yet another compelling antagonist in the Yakuza series, distinguishing himself throughstrategic brillianceover sheer brutality. Hisloyalty to Daigostands as a defining trait, deviating from the typical resort to violence seen in many antagonists. When Daigo falls into a coma, Mine’s selfishness resurfaces, grieving the loss of the one he genuinely cared about.
I will fly, Kiryu-san!
Not shying away from extreme measures, Mine eliminates even family members for the greater good of his clan. In a poignant turn, upon Daigo’s awakening,Mine sacrifices himselfby hurling out of a window, thwarting assassins and shielding Daigo. His tragic past, selfless ending, and unwavering loyalty to Daigo carve an unforgettable character, even if the boss fight falls short of memorability.
3Akira Nishikiyama
Kiryu’s Sworn Brother
In the beginning,Akira and Kiryu were friends, an odd duo with opposite traits—Kiryu was tough and shy, while Nishiki was sociable but not physically strong. The turning point of Nishiki’s life was Dojima’s attempt to assault their sworn sister, Yumi. Akira’s rage led him toshoot the Tojo Clan’s head, with Kiryu shouldering the blame to protect his friend. Kiryu’s sacrifice sent him to prison, while Nishiki suffered within the Dojima Family, transforming in Kiryu’s absence.
What Order Should You Play The Yakuza Games?
It’s not quite as simple as 1, 2, 3…
Brother! Hold out! Someday… if the time ever comes where you have to cross that line… then I’ll cross it with you!
After Kiryu returns from prison, Nishiki emerges as acold,violent figurefixated on seizing the Tojo Clan’s top position. Hiscomplex past, sibling love, and descent into darkness intricately weave together, solidifying him as a compelling antagonist in the Yakuza narrative.
2Daisaku Kuze
The One Who Woke Up The Sleeping Dragon
Daisaku Kuzeused to be a pro boxer before joining the yakuza. That is what may have influenced his resilience and tenacity. InYakuza 0, Kuze relentlessly pursued Kiryu, constantly being defeated, culminating in a challenging fifth and final battle. Despite all defeats, Kuze’s tenacity stood out, creating a memorable antagonist.
The man who gets down isn’t the loser. The guy who can’t tough it out to the end, he’s the one who loses.
Designed and voiced byHitoshi Ozawa, a renowned Yakuza actor, Kuze’s authenticity and conviction enhanced the overall narrative. His influence extended beyond battles, shapingKiryu’s fashionand even thetobacco brandhe smokes. Kuze’s character exemplifiesresilience, with Ozawa’s performance leaving a lasting impact on the Yakuza series.
1Goro Majima
Iconic Rival Of Kiryu
Goro Majimais a well-known antagonist in the Yakuza series, recognized for his uniqueeyepatch,flamboyant fashion style, and love for combat. While he usually appears asKiryu’s main rival, Yakuza 0 offers players the chance to explore Majima’s backstory, with him as the protagonist. InYakuza Kiwami, Majima has also become a popular meme thanks to the “Majima Everywhere” feature.
Right, wrong… Nobody’s got a clue what the difference is in this town. So I’m gonna have more fun… and live crazier than any of ‘em.
Once activated, the player will have Majima following them around the world and challenging them to fights. He’ll even weardisguisesand sneak attack, making it impossible to avoid him. Majima’s combination of intense combat skills andunexpected humorsolidifies his status as the greatest villain in Yakuza games, leaving a lasting impression on the gaming community.
Like A Dragon Gaiden: 10 Best Characters
Like A Dragon Gaiden is packed with memorable characters, both new and returning. This list breaks down the very best personalities you’ll encounter.
