Yakuza 4
Yakuza 4

Side Quest Progression & Prerequisites — Yakuza 4 Guide

Progress through Yakuza 4's Substories. Learn the specific prerequisites, character requirements, and story progression needed to complete each side quest.

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Side Quest Progression & Prerequisites

Yakuza 4 features a robust collection of side quests, known as "Substories," that offer unique narratives, valuable rewards, and deepen your understanding of Kamurocho's vibrant underworld. Unlike previous titles, many substories in Yakuza 4 are character-specific and have specific prerequisites, including story progression, time of day, and even items in your inventory. This section will guide you through optimizing your substory completion.

General Substory Tips

  • Explore Thoroughly: Many substories are triggered by simply walking past a specific location or overhearing a conversation. Don't rush through the main story; take time to wander the streets of Kamurocho.
  • Check Your Map: Available substories are often indicated by a question mark icon on your in-game map. However, some initial triggers might not appear on the map until you are very close.
  • Talk to Everyone: NPCs with speech bubbles above their heads often initiate substories or provide clues for them.
  • Carry Key Items: Certain substories require specific items to begin or complete. Always keep an eye out for unique items in shops or as rewards from other activities.
  • Time of Day Matters: Some substories are only available during the day or night. If you're stuck, try advancing the story or waiting for the time to change.
  • Save Frequently: Before attempting a substory, especially those with combat or dialogue choices, save your game. This allows you to retry if you make a mistake or want to see different outcomes.

Character-Specific Substory Triggers

Each of the four protagonists has their own set of substories, often intertwined with their personal narratives and skills. It's crucial to understand when and where to find them for maximum efficiency.

Shun Akiyama

Akiyama's substories often revolve around his loan shark business, Sky Finance, and the various colorful characters who seek his help. Many require you to make specific choices or provide financial assistance.

  • Early Game (Part 1, Chapter 1-2):
    • "The Homeless and the Ex-Con": Available from the start of Part 1. Head to the park near the Children's Park on Tenkaichi Street. You'll see a group of homeless men.
    • "The Loan Shark's Request": After completing "The Homeless and the Ex-Con," return to Sky Finance. This often involves finding specific individuals around the city.
    • "The Debt Collector's Debt": Requires you to have a certain amount of cash on hand (around 100,000 Yen is usually sufficient). Triggered by walking near the entrance of Public Park 3.
  • Mid-Game (Part 1, Chapter 3-4):
    • "The Cabaret Club Manager": After unlocking the Cabaret Club Grand, speak to the manager. This substory chain involves helping the club with various issues and training hostesses.
    • "The Stolen Purse": Triggered by walking near the front of Millennium Tower. Be prepared for a chase sequence.
  • Prerequisite Example: "The Master of the Night"
    • Prerequisite: Complete all substories related to the Cabaret Club Grand and successfully train at least one hostess to "Top Hostess" rank.
    • Location: Speak to the Cabaret Club Grand manager after meeting the prerequisites.
    • Strategy: This substory culminates in a challenging fight. Ensure Akiyama's abilities are upgraded, especially his speed and evasion.
Taiga Saejima

Saejima's substories often involve his past, his time in prison, and his struggle to adapt to modern Kamurocho. Many are combat-heavy or involve moral dilemmas.

  • Early Game (Part 2, Chapter 1-2):
    • "The Man Who Lost His Way": Triggered by walking near the alleyway behind the batting cages.
    • "The Prison Breakout": This substory is part of a longer chain that begins after Saejima escapes prison. It involves finding specific items or people in the city.
  • Mid-Game (Part 2, Chapter 3-4):
    • "The Underground Fighter": After unlocking the Coliseum, speak to the receptionist. This opens up a series of fighting challenges.
    • "The Stray Cat": Found near the back alleys of Pink Street. Requires you to bring specific food items (e.g., "Quality Tuna" from M Store) to the cat over several encounters.
  • Prerequisite Example: "Saejima's Training"
    • Prerequisite: Complete "The Underground Fighter" and win at least 5 matches in the Coliseum.
    • Location: Speak to the trainer near the entrance of the Coliseum.
    • Strategy: This substory involves a series of unique training challenges that enhance Saejima's combat abilities. Pay attention to the trainer's instructions.
Masayoshi Tanimura

Tanimura's substories frequently involve police work, investigations, and helping the vulnerable citizens of Kamurocho. They often require keen observation and sometimes quick-time events.

  • Early Game (Part 3, Chapter 1-2):
    • "The Corrupt Cop": Triggered by walking near the police station on Nakamichi Street.
    • "The Informant": Speak to an informant near the Ebisu Pawn shop. This often leads to a chase or a small investigation.
  • Mid-Game (Part 3, Chapter 3-4):
    • "The Missing Child": Triggered by a distressed parent near the Children's Park. Requires careful searching of the surrounding area.
    • "The Counterfeit Goods": Investigate a suspicious vendor in the back alleys of Theater Square.
  • Prerequisite Example: "Tanimura's Justice"
    • Prerequisite: Complete "The Corrupt Cop" and "The Informant" substories.
    • Location: Tanimura will receive a call or a message, prompting him to return to the police station.
    • Strategy: This substory involves a complex investigation. Pay close attention to dialogue and environmental clues. Having a "Toughness Emperor" on hand is always a good idea for unexpected fights.
Kazuma Kiryu

Kiryu's substories often revisit familiar faces and themes from previous Yakuza games, focusing on his role as a protector and his connection to the orphanage. Many are emotionally driven or involve powerful opponents.

  • Early Game (Part 4, Chapter 1-2):
    • "The Orphanage's Troubles": Available from the start of Part 4. Speak to the children or staff at the Morning Glory Orphanage.
    • "The Homeless Man's Plea": Found near the homeless camp under the Millennium Tower.
  • Mid-Game (Part 4, Chapter 3-4):
    • "The Legendary Fighter Returns": After unlocking the Coliseum, Kiryu can participate in his own set of challenges.
    • "The Lost Dog": Triggered by a distressed owner near the entrance to Purgatory. Requires finding the dog in a specific area.
  • Prerequisite Example: "Kiryu's Legacy"
    • Prerequisite: Complete all substories related to the Morning Glory Orphanage and achieve a certain level of friendship with the children.
    • Location: Speak to Haruka at the Morning Glory Orphanage.
    • Strategy: This substory often involves a series of challenging fights against powerful enemies. Ensure Kiryu's Heat Actions are fully upgraded and carry plenty of healing items like "Staminan Royale."