One of my favorite games out there. I only played the first ten minutes and I was hooked. I love the dramatic story it tells combined with its silly fun gameplay. Heat actions feel cool and it also feels satisfying how much damage it does.
Another strong aspect in the Yakuza games are the characters. I really like how well written they are. You become attached pretty quick and you feel the pain other characters feel when one dies. But what makes this game special for me is that it's my first. The Godfather is one of my favorite movies out there and this game nailed that vibe so well. But how it tells it's story is also a neat trait. It combined two different perspectives that at first holds no relation with one another, but sets up the story so well that when one ends in a cliffhanger, you'll be begging to know more about what happened to that character.
Last thing. The side content can be overwhelming, but if you can take things in your own pace, it can be a good time. I remember spending hours on the Cabaret minigame, karaoke along and the dancing one too. They're a nice change of pace after some of the heavier or serious moments the game has to offer. Plus the side stories are just good for building up Kiryu/Majima's character.
Anyways, enough of me rambling. Try the game out if you're curious, it's a swell time.