The Yakuza series has long been a fan favourite, offering action-packed stories and intense battles in some of the most brutal criminal underbellies imaginable. Now, Yakuza 0 takes players back to the origins of Japan's dark criminal underground and the struggles between the warring Yakuza clans.

This prequel to the popular gangster crime franchise allows players to take on the role of Kazuma Kiryu, a drifter from the East, and Goro Majima, an up-and-coming crime lord in the West, as they seek to gain control over the lucrative Tokyo underworld and fight to survive in a world of snakes and dangerous secrets.

Set in the gritty and vibrant cities of Tokyo and Osaka, Yakuza 0 pits players against rival yakuza factions, jaded businessmen, corrupt cops and a myriad of other colourful characters. Through powerful and visceral hand-to-hand combat, they strive to survive against all odds and ascend to the top of the Tokyo crime syndicate.

In addition to its intense action, Yakuza 0 also features a gripping storyline centered around loyalty and betrayal, a complex and detailed setting, and a host of minigames. Players can engage in thrilling bowling matches, karaoke duels, and other beloved pastimes in between acts of violence as they become the ultimate yakuza kingpin.

For newcomers to the series, Yakuza 0 offers several tutorials to get them up to speed with the basics of hand-to-hand combat and moves unique to each of the game's two playable protagonists. The unique combat styles boast a wide range of animations and daring attacks for every kind of player, and the ability to earn and spend money on flashy new clothes, weapons and vehicles gives a whole new dimension to the game.

Yakuza 0 also features a captivating narrative that drives the game forward. As players progress through the intricately woven tale, they will discover the inner workings of Tokyo's seedy underbelly and its many secrets. With well-acted dialogue and characters designed to challenge preconceptions of Japanese gangster stereotypes, this game provides insight and understanding into the culture that inspired it.

Yakuza 0 is a fantastic action-adventure sandbox game with a strong narrative and exciting combat system. With its captivating setting, complex characters and thrilling action, this gritty prequel is one of the best entries in the Yakuza series and a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike.