Summary
One of Kiryu’s old rivals has a definite presence inLike a Dragon Gaiden, even though he doesn’t make a physical appearance. Over the course of the series, Kiryu has faced off with many foes, andLike a Dragon Gaidenis no different. Some, most notably Tsuneo Iwami ofYakuza 6, earned nothing but disdain from him. However, Kiryu has found some redeeming qualities in a number of his opponents, even if they never end up becoming allies.Like a Dragon Gaidentakes special care to prop up one past adversary as one of Kiryu’s greatest rivals.
A key part ofKiryu’s story in theLike a Dragonseriesis the role he has played in countless conflicts. Somehow, he always finds himself in the midst of a gang war, or in the position to unravel a major plot in the underworld. His stern but selfless nature means that he always steps up, and thanks to his legendary fighting skills, he always manages to come out on top. In fact, it’s a combination of his unbelievable toughness and list of deeds that earned him the title of the Dragon of Dojima, which is known throughout the world ofLike a Dragon.
Like a Dragon Gaiden Speaks Highly of Yakuza 2’s Ryuji Goda
Kiryu finds a fierce fight fromLike a Dragon Gaiden’s Kosei Shishido, but one of his greatest rivals appeared all the way back inYakuza 2. Ryuji Goda was the leader of the Go-Ryu clan, and his goal was to have a battle with Kiryu, even willing to cause a gang war to get the battle that he wanted. However, Ryuji also had a sense of honor, refusing to fight a weakened Kiryu, and executing a gangster who had kidnapped Kiryu’s daughter Haruka. Despite being a villain, Ryuji Goda managed to gain the respect of both Kiryu and the fans.
Although Ryuji died as the end ofYakuza 2, he would return as a playable character in the non-canonYakuza: Dead Souls.
Like a Dragon Gaidenshows that Ryuji has not been forgotten. One ofLike a Dragon Gaiden’s first difficult boss fightsis against a Ryuji impersonator in the Coliseum. After he pulls some underhanded tricks during the fight, Kiryu chides him post-victory, stating that the real Ryuji had too much faith in himself to cheat. Likewise, one substory revolves around an attempted revival of the Go-Ryu clan through the use of fake Ryujis. However, Kiryu defeats them easily and points to their cowardice as proof that they aren’t fit to succeed Ryuji. At the end of the substory, Kiryu even notes that “dead celebrities” should look out for each other.
There are much more prominent characters associated with Kiryu, most notablyLike a Dragon’s wildly popular Goro Majima, butLike a Dragon Gaidenpays special attention to Ryuji. In fact, Kiryu can even recruit a Ryuji impersonator as a member of the Joryu clan in the Coliseum later on. For most villains in the series, their final defeat was the end of their relevance. However, Ryuji managed to leave a major impression on Kiryu long after the duel between the two ended. If any villain from the series deserved a call-back inLike a Dragon Gaiden, Ryuji would be the one.
Despite being a villain, Ryuji Goda managed to gain the respect of both Kiryu and the fans.
Kiryu’s adventures have continued long past Ryuji’s death, but the massive gangster still stands as one of Kiryu’s greatest rivals. Even after thechaotic battles ofLike a Dragon Gaiden, there are only a handful of foes that have managed to come close to Ryuji’s status, most of whom ended up being similarly notable figures in the franchise. With Kiryu’s past being so prominent throughout the game, it only makes sense for Ryuji to be a part of that.Like a Dragon Gaidenmakes sure that players will remember Ryuji Goda as a legendary figure in Kiryu’s story.
Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name
WHERE TO PLAY
ERASE YOUR PAST TO PROTECT YOUR FUTURE: Once a legendary yakuza, Kazuma Kiryu faked his own death and abandoned his name for the sake of protecting his family. Now, he is thrust into conflict by a mysterious figure attempting to drive him out of hiding. Under the codename “Joryu,” Kiryu embarks on a gripping action narrative with bone-shattering combat in vibrant locations filled with exciting characters and activities.ULTIMATE COMBAT WITH TWO HIGH-IMPACT FIGHTING STYLES: Dynamically switch between the Yakuza and Agent fighting styles in visceral melee combat. With the Yakuza style, strike fear into enemies by unleashing wildly aggressive moves powered by Kiryu’s unparalleled strength and flair. Or up the ante with the Agent style by delivering blows with absolute speed and precision, while using an array of high-tech gadgets like electrified bind wires to stun enemies then send them flying. Strategically adapt to the situation and leverage both styles to dominate and destroy hordes of enemies.ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENTWhether you’re brawling in the secret Battle arena, singing a new karaoke song, enjoying a drink at the live-action cabaret club, or racing in the pocket circuit, the world offers a variety of immersive experiences. An intriguing informant named Akame also provides thrilling sub-missions, drawing you into an epic showdown that unfolds the more you explore and enjoy Sotenbori and Yokohama.
