A prequel to the Yakuza series set in 1988 Tokyo and Osaka, following Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima as they navigate crime, loyalty, and a conspiracy around the "Empty Lot."
- Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (published by SEGA)
- Year/Platforms: 2015 (JP) / 2017 (WW); PS3/PS4 (later PC, Xbox One)
- Genre: Action-adventure, beat 'em up
- Core mechanics: Multiple fighting styles per protagonist, substories with comedic vignettes, business management mini-games (Real Estate Royale, Cabaret Club), karaoke and varied side activities
- Reception: Widely praised for story, characters, and tonal range; the breakout entry that popularized the series in the West