Yakuza 4 takes the long-running crime action series into bold new territory by introducing a multi-protagonist format. Among its many gripping storylines and character arcs, one particularly memorable side story is the Fearsome Foursome. This intense confrontation pits the player against a group of elite fighters in a dramatic showdown that pushes your combat skills to the limit. Whether you’re aiming for 100% completion or simply want to challenge yourself, understanding how to unlock and defeat the Fearsome Foursome in Yakuza 4 is essential for any serious player.
What Is the Fearsome Foursome?
The Fearsome Foursome is a series of optional boss fights inYakuza 4that appears during the Premium Adventure mode after completing the main story. These battles serve as one of the toughest combat challenges in the game, featuring four powerful opponents who each bring their unique fighting styles and personalities to the ring.
This special event is part of the Ultimate Fighter segment, a set of challenges designed to test the player’s mastery of Yakuza 4’s complex combat mechanics. Each character in the Fearsome Foursome has enhanced health, aggressive behavior, and access to powerful Heat Actions. Defeating them all requires strategic thinking, careful timing, and a strong grasp of your chosen character’s strengths.
How to Unlock the Fearsome Foursome
Step-by-Step Unlocking Process
To access the Fearsome Foursome challenge, players must first complete the main story of Yakuza 4. Once the story concludes, Premium Adventure mode becomes available. This mode allows players to freely explore Kamurocho without main story restrictions while keeping their gear, money, and abilities intact.
- Step 1: Finish the main story with all four protagonists Akiyama, Saejima, Tanimura, and Kiryu.
- Step 2: Load your completed save file and select Premium Adventure from the main menu.
- Step 3: Visit the underground Coliseum, located inside the Kamurocho Underground in the red-light district.
- Step 4: Speak with the receptionist and enter the special tournament that features the Fearsome Foursome battles.
Once unlocked, you can choose which character to use in these fights. It’s recommended to choose the one you’re most comfortable with, as the difficulty ramps up significantly during these matches.
Who Are the Fearsome Foursome?
Each member of the Fearsome Foursome represents a different threat. These fighters are more than just random thugs they are highly trained opponents with diverse fighting styles, special moves, and high resistance to standard tactics.
1. Jo Amon (Special Boss)
While not always listed directly with the Fearsome Foursome, Jo Amon can be considered their spiritual equivalent in terms of difficulty. He appears once certain side quests are completed and is often viewed as the ultimate challenge in every Yakuza title. Amon uses unpredictable moves, weapons, and multiple fighting styles, making him the most formidable opponent.
2. Raiga
Raiga is a brute-force fighter who relies on overwhelming strength and large area attacks. His slow speed is deceptive his moves deal massive damage, and he can break your guard if you’re not careful.
- Weakness: Dodging and counter-attacks work well.
- Strategy: Use quick combos, keep your distance, and bait his heavy attacks.
3. Shigeta
Shigeta is a speed-type enemy, focusing on fast punches and relentless pressure. His combos can quickly drain your health if you let him control the pace.
- Weakness: Interruptions and stun attacks.
- Strategy: Stay mobile, use parries, and break his rhythm with Heat Actions.
4. Sugiyama
Sugiyama is a technical fighter who excels in counters and evasion. His style mimics some of the protagonist’s more refined moves and requires careful observation to defeat.
- Weakness: Aggressive play and grabs.
- Strategy: Don’t let him dictate the fight. Use heavy attacks and throws to break through his defense.
5. Goro
Not to be confused with Goro Majima, this Goro is a separate character who fights with unpredictable patterns and erratic movements. His style combines street fighting and dirty tactics.
- Weakness: Reaction-based counters and crowd control.
- Strategy: Observe his moves carefully, punish his mistakes, and control the tempo of the fight.
Best Characters to Use
Kiryu Kazuma
Kiryu is a balanced fighter with powerful finishers and Heat Actions. His versatility makes him a strong pick for dealing with the varied tactics of the Fearsome Foursome.
Shun Akiyama
Akiyama’s speed and kick-based style allow him to chain together quick combos. He’s effective against slower enemies but can struggle against highly aggressive foes.
Taiga Saejima
Saejima hits like a truck but moves slowly. If you’re good at spacing and timing, he can end fights quickly. Just be ready to block and absorb some damage.
Masayoshi Tanimura
Tanimura’s counter-heavy style can be deadly in the right hands. He rewards defensive play and precision, but beginners might find him harder to master against tough enemies.
Recommended Gear and Abilities
Equipment
- War God Talisman: Reduces Heat depletion, allowing more Heat Actions per battle.
- Dragon Binding: Increases defense and reduces damage from critical attacks.
- Staminan Royale: Bring plenty of healing items to survive the longer fights.
Skills to Prioritize
- Essence of Finishing Blows: Delivers high damage and finishes combos with style.
- Counter Moves: Especially useful with Tanimura for punishing enemy aggression.
- Heat Action Boosts: Maximize your Heat Action potential, especially in tight moments.
Combat Tips for the Fearsome Foursome
- Study Enemy Patterns: Each opponent has specific behaviors and weaknesses. Observing their patterns is key to survival.
- Save Heat Actions for Critical Moments: Using a Heat Action when the enemy is stunned or on the ground can turn the tide of a match.
- Use the Environment: Walls and obstacles can trap enemies or set up strong finishers. Don’t fight in the open unless you have no choice.
- Manage Your Items: Don’t be afraid to use healing items, especially during prolonged battles. Survival is more important than saving inventory.
Why the Fearsome Foursome Is Important
The Fearsome Foursome is more than just an optional set of fights it represents the endgame content that pushes players to fully engage with Yakuza 4’s deep combat system. Beating them is a badge of honor, often required for achieving full completion and unlocking all game content. It’s also an exciting way to test how well you’ve mastered each character’s unique fighting style.
The Fearsome Foursome in Yakuza 4 offers one of the most thrilling and demanding challenges in the game. Facing these four elite fighters requires more than brute strength it calls for precision, adaptability, and mastery of your chosen character. Whether you’re chasing 100% completion or just want to face off against the toughest opponents Kamurocho has to offer, this battle series delivers in both intensity and satisfaction. Prepare well, fight smart, and take your place among the strongest fighters in Yakuza 4.