What is Yakuza games called in Japan?

Hey friend! Did you know that the iconic video game franchise known as Yakuza in the West is actually called Ryu ga Gotoku (龍が如く) in Japan? This directly translates to "Like a Dragon" in English. As a fellow gaming enthusiast, I wanted to provide some insider perspective on the history behind the different names, what they each mean, and why the developers are now shifting back towards a more authentic Japanese title. Grab a gamepad and let‘s dive in!

The Meaning Behind "Ryu ga Gotoku"

The Yakuza series was created by famed developer Toshihiro Nagoshi and released by Sega starting way back in 2005. The first game that kicked off the franchise in Japan was called Ryū ga Gotoku on PS2.

Breaking down the Japanese title provides some insight into the core themes:

• "Ryu" (龍) literally means "dragon"
• "Ga" (が) is a particle that adds emphasis
• "Gotoku" (如く) translates to "like" or "as"

So the full title Ryu ga Gotoku refers to living passionately or intensely "like a dragon." This is likely a reference to protagonist Kazuma Kiryu‘s ferocious dragon tattoo, as well as his warrior spirit and adherence to a code of honor.

Why "Yakuza" Was Used for International Releases

When Sega localized the first Yakuza game for North America and Europe in 2006, they felt the title Ryu ga Gotoku would not resonate as well with Western audiences unfamiliar with Japanese language or culture.

Instead they selected the name Yakuza for its dangerous and exotic connotations. The term yakuza refers to organized crime syndicates in Japan – similar to the mafia. Sega hoped positioning the game as the Japanese equivalent of Grand Theft Auto or Mafia would generate interest.

While potentially offensive to real-life yakuza, the edgy name succeeded in marketing the game internationally. Yakuza built a cult following for its gritty urban storylines, brawling combat and immersive city settings.

Comparing Regional Names of Main Games vs Spinoffs

After the success of the first Yakuza game overseas, Sega continued using the Yakuza name for its mainline sequels in the West:

Some spinoff titles also followed this pattern when localized:

• Ryu ga Gotoku Kenzan! (2008) – Yakuza Kenzan!
• Ryu ga Gotoku Ishin! (2014) – Yakuza Ishin!
• Ryu ga Gotoku Online (2018) – Yakuza Online

However in recent years, Sega started moving towards using more direct translations even in overseas versions.

The Return to "Like a Dragon" in the West

In 2020, the Western release of Yakuza: Like a Dragon represented a major shift back to authentic Japanese naming. This entry starring new series protagonist Ichiban Kasuga also marked a bold new turn-based RPG direction for the franchise.

By embracing the original title format worldwide, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio signaled they wanted their artistic vision to be represented properly in all regions moving forward. Yakuza: Like a Dragon went on to become a critical and commercial smash hit.

Sega has now announced upcoming mainline sequels will also use Like a Dragon rather than Yakuza in the official international titles. This shows the Japanese name has earned recognition and marketability abroad.

What "Yakuza" Actually Means in Japanese Culture

The term “yakuza” itself has its roots in Japanese history and language:

• Originated from a card game called Oicho-Kabu in the Edo period
• The worst hand (8-9-3) was nicknamed "yakuza" meaning useless or worthless
• Later became associated with gangsters and illegal activity in the 1960s

Today, the term yakuza evokes secretive organized crime groups involved in everything from gambling to extortion to politics. Members are known for their intricate tattoos and adhering to strict codes of conduct.

The yakuza remain shrouded in mystery in Japan – not unlike the mystique around mafia groups in America. Their presence can be felt in many aspects of everyday society.

Moving On From Misconceptions

While the Yakuza games do focus on power struggles within crime families, the provocative name came with some baggage and misconceptions. Many wrongly assumed the series glorified or promoted real-world yakuza violence and crime.

By re-branding globally as Like a Dragon, Sega helps convey these are fictional stories not meant to reflect actual criminal groups or condone illegal activities. This realigns the series with creator Toshihiro Nagoshi‘s vision of telling human stories about antiheroes living by their own codes.

In the end, Yakuza or Like a Dragon, the gripping dramatized crime sagas will continue to thrill gamers worldwide. But embracing the original Japanese title allows the essence of the franchise to shine through unfiltered. I don‘t know about you friend, but I‘m excited to see where this legendary series heads next!