Yakuza 0 Chapter Guide: 17 Must-Know Story Chapters Explained
Key Takeaways
- Yakuza 0 has 17 story chapters, plus an epilogue.
- You switch between Kiryu Kazuma and Goro Majima as the story unfolds.
- The game mixes serious crime drama with hilarious side quests and activities.
- Story pacing is cinematic, with each chapter feeling like a self-contained TV episode.
- Completion can take anywhere from 30 to 80+ hours, depending on your playstyle.
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Yakuza 0 has 17 main chapters plus an epilogue, each diving deep into the rise of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima in the Japanese underworld. The game alternates between the two protagonists, offering a mix of gritty crime drama and over-the-top humor, making every chapter feel like a mini-series of its own.
Introduction
When I first booted up Yakuza 0, I thought I’d breeze through it in a weekend. Spoiler alert: I was wrong—gloriously wrong. Between the gripping story, neon-lit brawls, and a cabaret minigame that somehow ate three hours of my life, I realized this wasn’t just a game; it was an experience. And the chapters? They’re structured like a Netflix crime thriller with just enough silliness to keep you laughing through the punches.
So, how many chapters are there in Yakuza 0? Let’s break it all down.
How Many Chapters Are in Yakuza 0?
The main story of Yakuza 0 is divided into 17 chapters, followed by an epilogue that neatly ties things up. Each chapter shifts between the two protagonists—Kiryu and Majima—giving players two unique perspectives on the criminal underworld of 1980s Japan.
Here’s the full chapter list for quick reference:
| Chapter | Title | Protagonist |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bound by Oath | Kiryu |
| 2 | The Real Estate Broker in the Shadows | Kiryu |
| 3 | A Gilded Cage | Majima |
| 4 | Proof of Resolve | Majima |
| 5 | An Honest Living | Kiryu |
| 6 | The Yakuza Way | Kiryu |
| 7 | A Dark Escape | Majima |
| 8 | Tug of War | Majima |
| 9 | Ensnared | Kiryu |
| 10 | A Man’s Worth | Kiryu |
| 11 | A Taste of Resolve | Majima |
| 12 | Den of Desires | Majima |
| 13 | Crime and Punishment | Kiryu |
| 14 | Unwavering Belief | Kiryu |
| 15 | Scales of Dragon and Tiger | Majima |
| 16 | Proof of Love | Majima |
| 17 | A Dragon and Tiger’s Destiny | Kiryu & Majima |
| Epilogue | Aftermath | Both |
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What to Expect From Each Chapter
A Tale of Two Dragons
One of the coolest things about Yakuza 0 is how it alternates perspectives. You’ll spend a few chapters in Kiryu’s shoes, then switch over to Majima. It keeps the pacing fresh and makes every switch feel like the start of a brand-new season in a TV show.
Chapter Length and Time Commitment
- Average time per chapter: 1–2 hours (if you focus only on the story)
- With side quests and distractions: 3–5 hours easy—especially if you get hooked on karaoke or real estate.
- Total time to beat main story: Around 30–40 hours.
- Completionist run: 80+ hours (if you want to “100%” it).
Story Themes You’ll Encounter
- Betrayal and loyalty (classic Yakuza stuff).
- Power struggles within the Tojo Clan.
- Love, loss, and sacrifice—the game hits surprisingly hard emotionally.
- Absurd comedy (yes, you might go from crying in one scene to managing a disco dance-off in the next).
Why Chapter Count Matters
You might wonder, “Why does it even matter how many chapters there are?” Well, if you’re like me, you need to know whether you’re in for a quick ride or an epic saga.
Here’s why the chapter count is important:
- Pacing your playthrough – Knowing when you’re halfway through helps avoid burnout.
- Side quest timing – Some substories only unlock in specific chapters.
- Emotional buildup – The structure gives major story beats the time they need to really land.
My Experience With the Chapter Flow
I’ll be honest—Chapter 3 almost broke me. I got so distracted running a cabaret club that I forgot there was a serious crime drama unfolding. But by the time I hit Chapter 10, I was glued to the screen like I was binge-watching a drama series. The constant back-and-forth between Kiryu’s stoic rise and Majima’s tragic descent is what makes Yakuza 0 feel like a masterpiece.
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Summary
Yakuza 0 is a 17-chapter epic, wrapped up with an epilogue that delivers a satisfying close. Each chapter is like a rollercoaster, balancing crime, drama, and pure absurdity. Whether you’re smashing faces in alleyway brawls or running a nightclub empire, every chapter pulls you deeper into the world of Kiryu and Majima.
If you’re planning your playthrough, just know: this isn’t a weekend game—it’s a journey worth savoring.
FAQs
It takes around 30–40 hours for the main story and up to 80+ hours for full completion.
No, but you should. They add humor, heart, and depth to the world—you’ll miss half the fun otherwise.
Yes! After completing the game, you unlock Premium Adventure Mode, letting you explore Kamurocho and Sotenbori without story pressure.
Absolutely. It’s actually the best entry point for newcomers to the series.
