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Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, the creative force behind the Yakuza/Like a Dragon series, has consistently delivered compelling narratives, unforgettable characters, and action-packed gameplay experiences. From the gritty streets of Kamurocho to the vibrant locales of Yokohama and beyond, the studio has carved a unique niche in the gaming world, captivating players with its blend of intense brawler combat, engaging side quests, and deeply human stories. Over the years, they've gifted us with a varied catalog of critically acclaimed titles, each with its own strengths and devoted fanbase. Now it's your turn to weigh in! We've compiled a selection of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's best games, spanning their evolution from PS2 classics to the modern era. Which title reigns supreme in your eyes? Which characters resonate the most? Take a moment to reflect on your favorite moments, your most cherished memories, and cast your vote in our poll below. Let your voice be heard and help us crown the ultimate champion of the Yakuza/Like a Dragon universe!
**Judgment (2022)** plunges players into the neon-drenched underbelly of Tokyo as Takayuki Yagami, a former defense attorney now a sharp-witted detective. RGG Studio masterfully weaves a narrative of twisted crime and moral ambiguity, where Yagami must navigate Kamurocho's treacherous criminal landscape to unravel a series of brutal murders. This action-adventure detective game offers a gripping legal thriller experience, constantly questioning the fine line between justice and mercy. Prepare for electrifying combat, thanks to two distinct fighting styles, and be captivated by cinematic twists that rival Hollywood blockbusters, all designed to keep your mind engaged and seeking answers until the very last moment. This title undeniably earns its place among the best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio due to its exceptional storytelling, deep character development, and signature RGG gameplay loop. **Judgment** excels at blending its compelling detective work with exhilarating, fluid combat, a hallmark of the studio's successful formula established in the *Yakuza* series. It offers a fresh perspective through Yagami's detective skills, introducing unique investigation mechanics alongside the beloved brawling action. The mature themes and intricate plot are handled with the same narrative prowess RGG is known for, delivering an emotional and thought-provoking experience that stands as a testament to the studio's continued evolution and commitment to quality.
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Yakuza 0 plunges players into the dazzling and dangerous world of 1980s Japan, a time of economic boom and unbridled decadence. The game masterfully blends gripping crime drama with over-the-top action, allowing players to embody two iconic characters: the stoic Kazuma Kiryu and the flamboyant Goro Majima. As Kiryu, you'll unravel a deep conspiracy triggered by a seemingly simple debt collection gone horribly wrong, finding yourself framed for murder. Then, switch to Majima and experience his surprisingly bizarre "normal" life as the enigmatic proprietor of a thriving cabaret club. Prepare for visceral combat, with the ability to fluidly switch between three distinct fighting styles and creatively use the environment to deliver devastating blows. This entry is a quintessential example of why Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio excels at crafting compelling narratives and engaging gameplay. Yakuza 0 represents a triumphant return to the series' roots, showcasing the studio's signature blend of mature storytelling, intricate character development, and quirky side activities that make the world feel alive. Beyond the brutal street fights, the game offers a wealth of distractions, from dancing the night away in discos to reliving retro gaming memories in SEGA arcades, all within a meticulously realized neon-lit urban landscape. The sheer breadth of optional side stories, each filled with unique and often hilarious characters and scenarios, demonstrates the studio's dedication to creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience, solidifying Yakuza 0's place as a standout title in their esteemed library.
**Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)** marks a bold new chapter for the beloved Yakuza series, offering a fresh perspective and a revolutionary shift in gameplay. This entry introduces Ichiban Kasuga, a loyal but down-on-his-luck yakuza grunt who endures a harsh prison sentence only to return to a world that has moved on without him and a clan betrayed. Assembling a motley crew of unlikely allies—a disgraced detective, a homeless ex-nurse, and a determined hostess—Ichiban embarks on a quest for truth and redemption in the neon-drenched streets of Yokohama. Prepare for a heartfelt narrative filled with twists and turns, where the bonds of friendship are forged in the crucible of betrayal, and ordinary individuals must rise to become extraordinary heroes. This title truly belongs on a list of "Best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio" for its audacious innovation and exceptional execution. While retaining the studio's signature blend of compelling storytelling, authentic Japanese urban environments, and quirky side activities, *Like a Dragon* bravely reinvents its core combat system. Transitioning to a turn-based RPG format allows for deeper strategic engagement, offering a vast array of 19 unique Jobs, from the formidable Bodyguard to the surprisingly effective Musician, each with distinct abilities and playstyles. The "Underworld Playground" aspect, featuring classic SEGA arcade games, kart racing, and a plethora of engaging substories, further showcases the studio's mastery in crafting rich, immersive worlds that offer endless entertainment beyond the main narrative. *Yakuza: Like a Dragon* proves Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's remarkable ability to evolve and surprise, delivering a narrative masterpiece with a wholly satisfying gameplay evolution.
**Yakuza Kiwami (2019)** thrusts you into the shoes of Kazuma Kiryu, a legendary yakuza lieutenant who emerges from a decade in prison to find his world irrevocably changed. The yakuza clans are teetering on the edge of all-out war, and you are immediately swept into an electrifying odyssey of love, humanity, and gut-wrenching betrayal. Fueling your journey is a potent combination of your own unyielding resolve and a formidable array of combat skills. Master four distinct fighting styles – the brutal 'Brawler', the lightning-fast 'Rush', the overpowering 'Beast', and the legendary 'Dragon' – and unleash your fury on the teeming masses of enemies. The vibrant red-light district of modern-day Japan serves as a dynamic playground, where makeshift weapons scavenged from the streets become instruments of exhilarating and accessible combat, ensuring every brawl is both realistic and incredibly fun for any player to dive into. This title is a cornerstone of the "Best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio" list for several crucial reasons. **Yakuza Kiwami** represents a masterful reimagining of the game that first introduced the world to Kiryu and his iconic saga. It seamlessly blends the raw, visceral combat the studio is known for with a deeply compelling narrative that explores themes of honor, redemption, and the enduring human spirit. Beyond the gripping main story, the game excels in its world-building, offering a richly detailed and remarkably immersive representation of Kamurocho. Players can lose themselves in the vibrant nightlife, engaging in a dizzying array of activities from karaoke and casino gambling to managing a cabaret club and testing their aim at batting cages. This dedication to providing a vast and entertaining sandbox, coupled with its narrative depth and refined gameplay, solidifies **Yakuza Kiwami** as an essential entry in Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's esteemed library.
Kazuma Kiryu believed he had escaped the clutches of the Tojo Clan, opting for a quiet life with Haruka Sawamura amidst the ruins of past conflicts. However, a single gunshot shattered their hard-won peace, igniting a dangerous power vacuum. The assassination of Tojo Clan Chairman Yukio Terada plunges the yakuza underworld into chaos, threatening to reignite a brutal war. Pulled back into the life he desperately tried to leave behind, Kiryu must journey to Sotenbori, Osaka, in a desperate bid to broker peace. Standing firmly in his way is Ryuji Goda, the formidable Dragon of Kansai, whose insatiable ambition for war knows no bounds. In a world where only one dragon can reign supreme, Kiryu faces his greatest challenge yet. Yakuza Kiwami 2 represents a monumental leap forward for the series, rebuilt entirely on the cutting-edge Dragon Engine. This modern rendition of a standout title seamlessly blends a compelling narrative with the visceral combat and deep gameplay loops that define Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio. The PC port further elevates the experience with enthusiast-grade features, including 4K resolution, unlocked framerates, and extensive graphics customization. Beyond the gripping main story, players can dive into beloved minigames like the revamped Cabaret Club simulator and Clan Creator, or explore new diversions such as golf bingo and Toylets. A significant new addition is the "Majima Saga," offering players a playable adventure starring Goro Majima, delving into pivotal events that unfold before the main game, showcasing the studio's commitment to expansive storytelling and player engagement.
**Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name (2023) - Digital Deluxe Edition** Dive back into the shadows with Kazuma Kiryu in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, the Digital Deluxe Edition. Faking his own death to protect his loved ones, Kiryu is pulled back into a life of conflict under the alias "Joryu." Experience a gripping action narrative with bone-shattering combat across vibrant locales, featuring two distinct fighting styles: the brutally aggressive Yakuza style and the swift, gadget-infused Agent style. Master both to decimate hordes of enemies, explore a world brimming with engaging characters and activities, and uncover the truth in Sotenbori and Yokohama. The Deluxe Edition also grants you the Legendary Fighter Pack, allowing you to unleash iconic yakuza legends Goro Majima, Taiga Saejima, and Daigo Dojima in the thrilling Coliseum battles, and unlocks a Special Trial Version of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth upon completion. This title is a quintessential entry in the "Best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio" list due to its masterful blend of classic Dragon Engine gameplay with a more focused, personal narrative. It expertly bridges the gap between Kiryu's past and his future, offering a deeply satisfying combat experience that showcases the studio's evolution in fighting mechanics with the dynamic Yakuza and Agent styles. Furthermore, the inclusion of legendary characters like Majima and Saejima in the Coliseum and the tantalizing preview of Infinite Wealth highlight Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's commitment to fan service and their ongoing dedication to delivering rich, immersive worlds packed with both intense action and delightful side content.
**Judgment (2022)** plunges players into the neon-drenched underbelly of Tokyo as Takayuki Yagami, a former defense attorney now a sharp-witted detective. RGG Studio masterfully weaves a narrative of twisted crime and moral ambiguity, where Yagami must navigate Kamurocho's treacherous criminal landscape to unravel a series of brutal murders. This action-adventure detective game offers a gripping legal thriller experience, constantly questioning the fine line between justice and mercy. Prepare for electrifying combat, thanks to two distinct fighting styles, and be captivated by cinematic twists that rival Hollywood blockbusters, all designed to keep your mind engaged and seeking answers until the very last moment. This title undeniably earns its place among the best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio due to its exceptional storytelling, deep character development, and signature RGG gameplay loop. **Judgment** excels at blending its compelling detective work with exhilarating, fluid combat, a hallmark of the studio's successful formula established in the *Yakuza* series. It offers a fresh perspective through Yagami's detective skills, introducing unique investigation mechanics alongside the beloved brawling action. The mature themes and intricate plot are handled with the same narrative prowess RGG is known for, delivering an emotional and thought-provoking experience that stands as a testament to the studio's continued evolution and commitment to quality.
**Lost Judgment (2022)** plunges players back into the gritty underworld of Yokohama as the tenacious detective Takayuki Yagami. When a shocking confession from a disgraced police officer links a student's suicide to a murdered teacher, Yagami finds himself on the perplexing trail of a dark conspiracy within a prestigious high school. To uncover the truth behind a twisted cycle of bullying and revenge, he must go deep undercover, adopting the persona of a club advisor and navigating the treacherous social dynamics of the student body. Prepare for an exhilarating blend of investigative sleuthing, where hi-tech gadgets and old-school gumshoe tactics are essential for gathering evidence, and bone-crushing combat, featuring Yagami's mastery of three distinct martial arts styles to dismantle any threat. This title is a prime example of why Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio consistently delivers exceptional experiences. **Lost Judgment** embodies the studio's signature strengths: a compelling, character-driven narrative steeped in noir sensibilities, offering a mature and thought-provoking exploration of complex moral dilemmas. The seamless integration of deep investigative mechanics with the exhilarating, freeform combat that the studio is renowned for creates a gameplay loop that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally satisfying. Furthermore, the game's commitment to immersive world-building, allowing players to explore vibrant cityscapes and engage with a plethora of side activities, further solidifies its place as a standout title from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio.
In *Yakuza 6: The Song of Life*, Kazuma Kiryu's unwavering devotion to family is put to the ultimate test when he emerges from a three-year prison sentence to find his surrogate daughter, Haruka, missing. His investigation leads him to Kamurocho, only to discover Haruka has been the victim of a car accident and lies in a coma, with a child he must now protect. Driven by this grim revelation, Kiryu embarks on a journey to the picturesque seaside town of Onomichi, Hiroshima, seeking the truth behind Haruka's plight and uncovering a dangerous secret held by the local yakuza. This installment marks a significant leap forward with the "Dragon Engine," offering unparalleled realism in both the bustling, vibrant Kamurocho and the serene, new setting of Onomichi. The game masterfully blends a mature, emotional narrative with hyper-explosive combat and a wealth of engaging side activities, from classic minigames to new additions that offer both relaxation and challenge. *Yakuza 6: The Song of Life* undeniably earns its place among the best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio due to its ambitious technological advancements and its masterful storytelling. As the first Yakuza title built entirely for current-gen hardware, it showcases the "Dragon Engine" with stunning detail, lifelike animations, and seamless environmental transitions, immersing players in its meticulously crafted worlds like never before. The combat system, while focused on a singular, powerful style for Kiryu, is brutal and satisfying, enhanced by devastating Heat Actions and the electrifying Extreme Heat Mode. Furthermore, the game's narrative is a poignant and deeply human exploration of family bonds, loyalty, and sacrifice, providing a fitting, emotional conclusion to Kiryu's saga for many players. The commitment to fully Japanese voice acting also elevates the experience, offering an authentic and immersive "interactive foreign film" feel that is a hallmark of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's dedication to their craft.
**Like a Dragon: Ishin! (2023) Digital Deluxe Edition** Step into the turbulent world of 1860s Kyoto as Sakamoto Ryoma, a legendary samurai burdened by injustice. In this action-packed historical drama, you'll wield both the swiftness of the blade and the raw power of a firearm to uncover your father's killer, clear your name, and ignite a revolution that will forever reshape Japan. The Digital Deluxe Edition elevates your journey with exclusive content designed to empower your quest. Don the Shinsengumi Captain’s Set for an iconic look, gain access to the Ryoma Growth Support Kit for accelerated progression, and secure vital Sword and Gun Upgrade Materials Kits to ensure your arsenal is always at its peak. Furthermore, the Third Division Armament Expansion Kit unlocks new weaponry, and the coveted Dragon of Dojima Skin lets you embody another iconic Ryu Ga Gotoku protagonist. Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a quintessential entry for any "Best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio" list, showcasing the studio's unparalleled mastery of narrative, combat, and world-building. This title, a reimagining of the original *Ishin!* for a global audience, perfectly encapsulates their signature blend of intense samurai action and dramatic storytelling. The meticulously crafted historical setting of the Bakumatsu period, brought to life with stunning visuals and a compelling narrative, highlights the studio's ability to weave intricate plots with deeply realized characters. Furthermore, the fluid and engaging combat system, which seamlessly blends sword fighting with revolver mechanics, exemplifies the evolutionary design principles that have defined the *Yakuza* series and its esteemed developer. *Ishin!* stands as a testament to Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's enduring commitment to delivering unforgettable, high-stakes adventures rooted in unique cultural contexts.
Embark on an unforgettable, over-the-top pirate adventure in **Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii (2025)**. Step into the steel-toed boots of Goro Majima, a legendary ex-yakuza who, after a mysterious shipwreck, finds himself adrift with amnesia. Reborn as a pirate captain, Majima sets sail with his unlikely companion, Noah, in pursuit of lost memories and a legendary treasure. Prepare for exhilarating land and sea combat, where you'll assemble a unique crew, upgrade your ship, and engage in fierce cannon battles and intense crew-vs-crew brawls. Master the dynamically switchable "Mad Dog" and "Sea Dog" fighting styles to deliver explosive combos and conquer the open sea with the unique blend of yakuza flair and pirate ferocity. The **Digital Deluxe Edition** is your ticket to all the bounty! This premium package unlocks legendary crewmates to bolster your ranks, provides extensive ship customization parts to make your vessel truly your own, and includes iconic costumes to personalize your characters. Plus, you'll get an extra karaoke song to belt out and additional music to enhance your in-game playlist. This edition contains the base game and the following add-ons: Legendary Pirate Crew Pack, Legendary Outfit Pack, Ship Customization Pack, and an Extra Karaoke & CD Pack. **Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii** is a perfect fit for the "Best games by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio" list due to its signature blend of dramatic storytelling, engaging combat, and the studio's trademarked ability to deliver unique and memorable experiences, this time with an audacious pirate twist on familiar characters and gameplay.
**Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania (2021)** throws players into a vibrant world of rolling, bouncing, and banana-chasing chaos. Join AiAi and his primate pals – MeeMee, GonGon, Baby, YanYan, and Doctor – as they embark on an epic quest to thwart the nefarious monkey mad scientist, Dr. Bad-Boon, and prevent the destruction of Jungle Island. This definitive Super Monkey Ball experience boasts over 300 meticulously designed stages, drawing from the beloved classics Super Monkey Ball, Super Monkey Ball 2, and Super Monkey Ball Deluxe. Beyond the main adventure, a delightful collection of 12 fun-filled minigames, including Monkey Racing, Monkey Soccer, and Monkey Bowling, offers endless replayability. Compete with friends on online leaderboards, delve into a charming comic-book-style story, and personalize your monkey and their ball to truly make it your own. The Digital Deluxe Edition further enhances this package with classic characters, golden banana challenges, iconic SEGA Legends content, and a nostalgic soundtrack. While Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania is developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio), it represents a distinct departure from their signature Yakuza series. However, its inclusion on a list of RGG Studio's best games is well-deserved due to the studio's exceptional talent for polishing and expanding beloved franchises. RGG Studio's meticulous attention to detail shines through in Banana Mania, offering a comprehensive and feature-rich celebration of the Super Monkey Ball legacy. Their expertise in creating engaging gameplay loops and delivering high-quality, content-packed experiences is evident, making this a worthy addition to their celebrated portfolio, even if it diverges from their typical crime drama genre.
**Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. (2025) - 30th Anniversary Edition** Celebrate three decades of groundbreaking 3D fighting with the luxurious Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. - 30th Anniversary Edition! This ultimate compilation goes beyond a mere remaster, offering a definitive Virtua Fighter experience for long-time fans and newcomers alike. Dive into the meticulously updated classic with stunning 4K graphics, high-resolution textures, and the revolutionary rollback netcode for seamless online combat. Master the intricate martial arts of 19 unique characters, each with their own distinct fighting style, and personalize your champions with an array of costumes and customization items. Engage in a variety of classic modes, from the intense Arcade and competitive Rank Match to robust Training and Versus options. The true highlight of this edition lies in its wealth of anniversary content, including an exclusive Swimsuit Costume Set for all characters, a comprehensive 30th Anniversary Soundtrack Collection featuring every VF title's original score plus 220 unreleased tracks, and a Pre-Production Artwork collection showcasing the series' origins. Furthermore, unlock the Virtua Fighter Legendary Pack DLC, bringing back elements from the original Virtua Fighter, and a Yakuza Series Collaboration Pack for unique crossovers. This 30th Anniversary Edition is not just a game; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of Virtua Fighter. Beyond the core gameplay enhancements and expansive content, the inclusion of the Yakuza Series Collaboration Pack is particularly noteworthy. While Virtua Fighter has always been developed by Sega's AM2 division, the Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG Studio) has become synonymous with quality fighting and action titles within Sega's portfolio. RGG Studio, while primarily known for the Yakuza series, has also been instrumental in the development and preservation of Sega's fighting game heritage. Their involvement, even if indirect through cross-promotional content and shared expertise in fighting game mechanics, solidifies Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O.'s place among RGG Studio's best. The Yakuza collaboration pack directly bridges the worlds these studios have meticulously crafted, showcasing a shared passion for compelling characters, deep combat systems, and engaging gameplay loops that have defined both franchises. This edition represents a perfect fusion of Virtua Fighter's legacy and RGG Studio's commitment to delivering top-tier, content-rich gaming experiences.
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