The summary of ‘Beginner's Combat Guide To Yakuza 0’

00:00:00

In this part of the video, the creator addresses common misconceptions about Yakuza 0, particularly the mistaken belief that the game lacks a countering system in combat. They explain that the video’s purpose is to introduce newcomers to the basics of Yakuza 0’s combat mechanics, which are applicable to other Yakuza games as well. The video aims to enhance the enjoyment of the game’s combat system and highlight the extensive content the games offer beyond combat, including side activities, sub-stories, and mini-games.

The creator provides practical tips, starting with the importance of using the lock-on feature (holding R1) for more precise attacks, especially against bosses. They advise against mashing the Square button and instead recommend performing Rush combos by transitioning from Square to Triangle for more effective attacks. Demonstrating with footage, the creator highlights how this method can knock down opponents, showcasing its superiority over button mashing. The explanation also covers how different characters and combat styles impact the execution of these moves.

00:03:00

In this part of the video, the focus is on providing tips for more effective combat techniques. First, it illustrates various combinations of square and triangle buttons to execute different attacks, emphasizing the advantage of following a pattern over mashing buttons. Next, it introduces the use of circle for grabs and highlights how pressing different buttons while grabbing (square, triangle, circle) can lead to various outcomes depending on the character’s style. For example, in Kiryu’s Beast style, throwing an enemy with circle looks different compared to his Brawler style. Additionally, pressing L1 allows players to maneuver behind enemies to change heat actions. It also notes that certain characters and styles, like Majima’s Slugger and Dancer styles or Kiryu’s Rush style, cannot perform grabs. Finally, it advises against overusing grabs as enemies, particularly bosses, are more likely to counter them.

00:06:00

In this part of the video, the speaker discusses crucial combat mechanics, focusing particularly on ‘heat actions’ in the game. They explain that heat actions are powerful moves that characters can execute when their heat gauge is full, causing the character to emit a glowing aura. The aura’s color varies with the fighting style, but players should mainly follow the prompts displayed when in specific situations, typically involving pressing the triangle button. Initial heat actions are limited, but more can be unlocked through upgrades and training, with some exclusive to second or third gear. The segment emphasizes the importance of utilizing these moves for their versatility and impact, noting that finishing off enemies with heat actions in “Yakuza Zero” yields more money. Additionally, a tip is provided to bypass heat action prompts when necessary by holding L2 before pressing triangle. The speaker then transitions to defense strategies, starting with the importance of blocking.

00:09:00

In this segment of the video, the focus is on essential combat strategies in Yakuza games, specifically blocking, dodging, and countering. It emphasizes the importance of using L1 to block attacks, which can save your life in the game. Blocking mechanics may vary with different styles, like Kiryu’s Beast style absorbing hits and Rush style enabling dodges while stationary.

Dodging is highlighted as a crucial defensive move using the X button, with enhanced effectiveness when locking onto enemies, especially bosses. Different styles, like Kiryu’s Brawler and Rush styles, offer varied dodging techniques. The segment asserts that dodging is generally more advantageous than blocking due to the risk of guard breaks with blocking.

It also mentions a specific ability that allows players to regain their guard after it’s broken.

Lastly, countering is discussed as an advanced yet vital combat technique. Performing counters depends on precise timing and varies by character and style. An example is given of executing a brawler style counter by locking onto an enemy with R1 and pressing triangle before an attack lands. The video stresses practice to master countering, noting that some enemies can also counter and have hyper armor during their retaliations.

00:12:00

In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the functionality of using ‘R2’ for character taunts in combat, noting that taunts can leave the player vulnerable to attacks and can enrage weaker enemies. The taunts vary between fighting styles and initially serve no purpose beyond aesthetics, but can later be upgraded to increase the player’s heat gauge. The segment highlights the progression from beginner to advanced combat skills, showcasing how combat can evolve over time. The video concludes with a summary of the combat mechanics such as locking on, rush combos, grabs, heat actions, blocking, dodging, and countering, and expresses the hope that these tips will enhance the viewer’s experience with Yakuza Zero. The speaker thanks ‘Soul of the Rising Sun’ for assistance and signs off.