Yakuza are members of traditional organised crime groups in Japan - in other words the Japanese mafia. The Yakuza is by far the most feared organisation in Japan. In a country where respect and honour are paramount, within the Yakuza, these qualities are even more important. Gamers assume the role of Kiryu Kazuma - a former player in the Yakuza who has just done a bit of bird and been released from the slammer after serving a 10 year sentence for murder. He finds himself at the centre of an underworld plot involving 10 million missing Yen and a strange girl known only as Haruka. In order to solve this mysterious puzzle, Kiryu must stay alert, using his most vital weapons - his fists - to stay alive. Yakuza for the PS2 is a Beat 'Em Up that offers gamers both cutting-edge fighting mechanics and an engrossing storyline. The combat engine in Yakuza lets gamers put together attack combinations that will take out multiple enemies simultaneously in street brawls. You can throw enemies against walls and pick up various deadly weapons that will no doubt help in exterminating foes. Through such combat, gamers can increase their strength, stamina and skills dramatically. In Yakuza, there is a meter known as the Heat Gauge that when full, allows Kazuma to deliver bone-crushing blows. It is also possible to increase your character's skills and attributes by collecting weapons and items, taking part in the various side missions, interrogating informants and even gambling. SEGA's Yakuza is a free-roaming game that gives gamers the opportunity to explore the seedier side to Tokyo's urban nightlife. With licensed shops and sprawling streets, gamers could be forgiven in thinking they were actually in Tokyo instead of in front of their TV screen.