it’s insane how each entry in this series just keeps getting better and better. this game tells an utterly massive story, with so many different plot threads that all somehow come together perfectly to create my favorite ending so far. Yakuza 5 is a story about what it means to pursue a dream, what it means to pass on that dream, and what it means not to give up. presented absolutely beautifully, somehow we’ve reached new heights in a series that already soars to those of the highest sky scrapers. I couldn’t begin to organize all of my thoughts on this game— it’s one of the biggest i’ve played in my life. It’s worth every second of it though, there really isn’t a truly bad moment here. the best iteration of the combat so far in the series, and as mentioned, an absolutely wonderful story. I have no further notes… it was kino

A good follow-up to the first game and introduces some staples to the series like the new explorable city of Sotenbori. I may be in the minority in saying that I somewhat prefer the first game's story, though this one had higher highs. Kiryu gets some good development and the main antagonist is much more compelling than Nishiki was in the first game.

Unfortunately, I feel like the story gets extremely messy towards the end and I've never been 100% on board with the romantic approach they took with Kiryu and Sayama. However, in every other aspect, this game surpasses the original in terms of gameplay, the combat is remarkably smoother than it was before.

Overall, a solid entry that fumbles a bit towards the end but is good fun for most of its duration.

I have beaten this game several times before but recently revisited this cartridge on my Analogue Pocket. I had forgotten how awesome this game was and the amount of polish that went into making it. It’s a leap above Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins in terms of graphics, music, and controls. Hunting down treasures and defeating a whole new set of baddies is a great time. There are a few spots in the later levels that could be considered “cheap” but overall these 40 levels pack a punch and should not be missed!