Thug life
Released back in 2005, the original Yakuza was one of the most expensive games ever made, coming in at a staggering 21 million US dollars. Although sadly overlooked in the West, Sega's sprawling urban adventure was hugely acclaimed in Japan, thanks to its detailed and realistic depiction of the country's criminal underworld. Yakuza 2 presents more of the same (much, much more, in fact - the game is twice the size of the original) with hero Kazuma Kiryu coming out of retirement to save his old clan from a myriad of scheming enemies.
Crime and culture
Written by famed crime novelist Seishu Hase, Yakuza 2 is a heavily story-led adventure, filled with plot twists, treachery and violence. If you're already thinking 'GTA in Japan' stop right there - this is a very different experience. In some ways it's as much a social simulation as an action title. A lot of the game is about immersing yourself in the unique culture of the Yakuza, visiting hostess bars and cabarets, heading out on the driving range, hanging around in the finest restaurants and generally living the life of a Tokyo gangster. There are also loads of entertaining cut-scenes to enjoy, all adding layers to the rich, rewarding story.
Some of the most raw and uncompromising fighting action outside of the Manhunt series.
If you're not at all interested in the Japanese criminal strata you may find this a little trying. You can't just swan around with a gun, blasting anyone who strays too close - you have to behave like, and be accepted by, the underworld aristocracy. Yakuza 2 also favours fixed camera angles rather than a free-moving 3D viewpoint, so it feels a little dated, especially if you're used to the 'go anywhere, do anything' ethic of the GTA series.
But don't be mistaken, there is plenty of combat. Yakuza 2 features a brilliant melee fighting system, allowing you to take on multiple enemies with a stomach-churning range of moves and weapons. Every successful brawl bags you experience points, which open up new fighting styles and attack options.
Real life
There are also some truly brutal finishing moves to unlock, with jaws breaking and nose bones crunching all over the place. Add in the context-sensitive moves that let you chuck enemies down stairs or jam their faces into walls (ouch) and Yakuza 2 serves up some of the most raw and uncompromising fighting action outside of the Manhunt series.
Yakuza 2 is a genuine experience - a masterful blend of combat, plot and life simulation.
More than just another gangland shooter, Yakuza 2 is a genuine experience - a masterful blend of combat, plot and life simulation. If you fondly recall Sega's amazing Shenmue titles on the Dreamcast console, this should go on your Christmas list right now - it's very much an extension of that game's graceful, immersive philosophy.
Cult classic
If, on the other hand, you're entirely new to the whole concept, but are intrigued by a very Japanese take on the free-roaming urban adventure, this epic title won't disappoint. Sure, Yakuza 2 has got some odd quirks and feels like a last-gen experience at times, but it's loaded with detail and has clearly been crafted with oodles of care and attention. With number three deep into development and set for a high profile release on PlayStation 3 next year, now's your chance to get in early and sample the Yakuza high-life before your mates discover it.
GAME's Verdict
- Great sense of place and teeming with detail.
- Interesting, twisty plot.
- Truly brutal combat system.
- May be too story-focused for some.
- Feels a little dated at times.
- Lacks the true freedom of, say, GTA IV.
Review by: Keith 'Crime Lord' Stuart
Version Tested: PS2
Review Published: 14.11.08