Unlocking the Hidden Challenges: Yakuza’s Most Frustrating Minigames Revealed!

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Summary

  • Yakuza games have captivating main stories but shine with challenging and engaging side activities like Pocket Circuit and Batting Cages.
  • Players can face frustration with complex minigames like Drone Racing and Shogi, which require upgrading and strategizing to succeed.
  • Games like Oicho-kabu and Koi-koi offer complex gambling experiences that may deter Western players seeking simplicity in gameplay.

Over time, Yakuza (formerly known as Like a Dragon) has amassed an enormous fanbase who appreciate its numerous quirks. While the captivating main stories are certainly compelling, it’s the diverse array of side activities that truly sets these games apart, offering players the opportunity to become immersed in them for hours on end.

This collection offers numerous mini-games that are captivating on their own and rewarding with the prizes they offer. Nevertheless, certain side activities can prove quite demanding, testing players’ skills to the maximum as they strive for success in these tough-as-nails mini-games.

8. Pocket Circuit

Can Get Challenging Later On Without A Guide

  • Appears In: Yakuza 0, Yakuza Kiwami, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name

As soon as spectators witness an elated Kiryu hoist his miniature race car aloft following his triumph at the Pocket Circuit, they’ll be eager to purchase accessories and customize their own vehicles for the numerous contests ahead.

Eventually, players may discover that this minigame is not as tranquil as they initially thought. Neglecting to exercise caution when acquiring upgrades can result in players spending excessive time trying to win more challenging races. In some cases, the difficulty level becomes so high that most players seek help through guides and strategies to maximize their speed and chances of winning without deviating from the track due to the increased speeds.

7. Batting Cages

Without Upgrades, Getting Home Runs Is Easier Said Than Done

  • Appears In: Almost every Yakuza game

In Japan, baseball holds a significant place in people’s hearts, and this sentiment is echoed within the world of Yakuza games. Nearly every game in this series showcases the iconic Batting Cages, offering players a chance to test their skills at accurately hitting a baseball.

The original form of this mini-game was exceptionally challenging, making every home run feel like a significant victory. The revamped edition of this pastime is less daunting, but those aiming for consistent home runs and meeting the tough prerequisites for the Batting Cages’ toughest modes should look into upgrading their equipment.

6. Drone Racing

The Tougher Championships Are A Pain To Get Through Even With Major Upgrades

  • Appears In: Judgment, Lost Judgment

In the game Judgment, drone racing serves as an additional activity for players. This allows them to personalize their drones and join exhilarating competitions. Initially, these races are entertaining, but as the game progresses, the difficulty intensifies. Players must seek superior components and maneuver through increasingly complex tracks at faster speeds.

The last series of competitions is incredibly challenging, requiring top-notch enhancements just for a fighting chance. A slip-up could cause them to lose ground and crucial points in the standings, which might render all their effort and time invested in these races fruitless if they don’t manage to secure these championships after putting in so much work.

5. Disco

A Rhythm Game That’s Harder Than It Has Any Right To Be

  • Appears In: Yakuza 0

As a gamer diving into the world of Yakuza 0, I was taken aback by the unexpected punch that Disco packed. While I thought it’d be just another rhythm game, I soon realized it was far from simple.

Players need not just follow the tempo of the music, but they are also urged to maximize their steps before each new note sounds. This extra requirement significantly increases the game’s difficulty level, particularly during tougher modes where players strive to outperform their rivals and achieve impressive scores.

4. Mahjong

A Complicated Game Involving Tiles

  • Appears In: 16 Yakuza games

The Yakuza game provides a fascinating glimpse into the intricacies of Japanese culture, making it an engaging experience for those captivated by Japan’s unique charm. This immersion also includes various mini-games modeled after traditional Japanese games.

This encompasses Mahjong, a game that remains comprehensible provided players make an effort to grasp these guidelines. However, more challenging versions of Mahjong can become particularly vexing as players repeatedly fail, hindering their progress towards a full 100% conquest.

3. Shogi

A Japanese Version Of Chess That Players May Find Hard To Wrap Their Heads Around

  • Appears In: 13 Yakuza games

Chess is an engaging game that requires players to strategize and use their intellect to outsmart their opponents. Consequently, enthusiasts might also enjoy Shogi, a Japanese version of the same game.

Nevertheless, certain units such as the Gold and Silver Generals might require more time to familiarize oneself with. Additionally, the strategic aspect of each battle contributes to this perception that Shogi may not be appealing for those unwilling to invest substantial effort into a game where a single loss could result in a humiliating defeat.

2. Oicho-kabu

A Card-Based Gambling Game That Can Be Annoying If Players Are On A Losing Streak

  • Appears In: 13 Yakuza games

Some Japanese gambling games are so intricate that a basic written guide may not suffice for players to fully comprehend the rules. For instance, Oicho-kabu requires players to get as close as possible to the total of 9, with only the second digit being considered when totals exceed 9. This complexity might necessitate additional resources or tutorials to help players grasp the game effectively.

At a quick glance, it may appear straightforward; however, the majority of Western players lack familiarity with this game, making it more challenging than it initially appears. It’s understandable why many opt to disregard the game after a brief examination as its complexities often outweigh the benefits for most people in most cases.

1. Koi-koi

A Complicated Game Where Players Must Form The Most Valuable Hand Possible

  • Appears In: 14 Yakuza games

Among the games in the Yakuza series, Koi-koi is arguably the one that offers the greatest challenge due to its intricate rules. For those who are not patient, it can be a daunting task to grasp the concepts involved. At first glance, the objective appears straightforward – players aim to create the most valuable hand. However, achieving this goal is far from simple.

In simpler terms, players should aim to create the best possible poker hand during their last opportunity to exchange cards, then declare it to win. This rule isn’t commonly followed unless players are striving for a full game completion.

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2025-02-26 15:36