Giving that Elden Ring co-op modder a run for their money, there’s now a Yakuza 5 mod that lets you play with a friend or AI-controlled Ichiban

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As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but notice the surge of popularity for co-op mods lately. A significant part of this wave is due to that brilliant FromSoft modder who’s managed to integrate smooth multiplayer into games ranging from Elden Ring and Sekiro, all the way back to Dark Souls Remastered. Now, it seems even Yakuza fanatics like myself are in for a treat with similar modifications!

The “Intertwined Fates” mod for Yakuza 5 enables you to experience nearly the whole game in co-op or with a computer-controlled companion. Normally, Kazuma Kiryu, our protagonist in this criminal journey, operates solo most of the time. However, modder Jhrino cleverly placed Ichiban Kasuga, a beloved character known for his humor, into situations where he doesn’t originally appear.

In Yakuza 5, the hero from the seventh and eighth mainline Like a Dragon games, Ichiban, isn’t present. However, that’s the beauty of modifying games, isn’t it?

Or,

Although Ichiban, the protagonist of the seventh and eighth mainline Like a Dragon games, is missing in Yakuza 5, it just goes to show how fun and creative modding can be.

In the open world (free-roam) setting, the mod doesn’t perfectly sync with an AI-controlled Ichiban. However, engaging in dance battles against Haruka, hunting, taxi games, and idol battles can all be enjoyed cooperatively. It seems that a genuine Yakuza co-op experience wouldn’t be complete without being able to play the minigames together with a friend.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but appreciate Ichiban’s unique moveset and his significant role in cutscenes. However, if you find his silent presence during the drama slightly distracting, fear not! You can customize your experience by following the guidelines on NexusMods. There’s an intriguing option that allows him to be present only in cutscenes but absent from gameplay, catering to your preferences.

Moreover, this mod has been thoughtfully designed for local co-op play, but there’s also software available (as outlined on the page) that enables you to enjoy it online as well!

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2025-07-12 20:09