Goda Ryuji
Ryuji is the main rival and one of the main antagonists for Yakuza 2. He's every bit as tough as Kazuma is. He's as strong and sturdy, but maybe a little more stubborn. In all honesty, Ryuji really annoyed me at first. I just kept thinking, "Oh, a Kazuma clone" - only he was on the opposing side. And I thought he was a good contrast to Kazuma, but at the same time, I couldn't help but feel that he'd never really outshine him. At least not in aspect of being more awesome than Kazuma (and in some case he isn't). I just didn't think he'd leave a lasting impression.
It wasn't until Ryuji showed up at Sengoku's place and helped Haruka that I finally decided I liked him. His annoyance at Sengoku's lowly ways amused me and I liked that he helped Kazuma and Haruka. More than that, he's a man of his word. And that's great. Turns out, he's every bit as soft as Kazuma too.
He is a playable character in the zombie apocalypse spin-off Yakuza: Dead Souls sporting a gatling gun arm as his main weapon. He makes his first appearance in chapter 2 in a photo in the middle of a Tojo Clan meeting. At the end of Part 2 he shows up to assist Majima and Akiyama. He is the lead character of part 3, where we learn about how the out break started. He also joins Kazuma as a partner for the last part of the game.
Spoilers for Yakuza 2 and Yakuza: Dead Souls are unmarked with the exception of this warning.
| The Dragon of Kansai | Summary of Ryuji's personality and actions in Yakuza 2 |
| Takoyaki Apprentice | Summary of Ryuji's personality and actions in Yakuza: Dead Souls |
| Family | Relationship with Sayama Kaoru, Goda Jin, Suyeon, and Pops |
| Boss | Leader of the Go-Ryu Clan |
| Junya | The Cowardly Soldier |
| Shine and Jewel | The hostesses Sakura Ai and Sakuragi Hina |
| Kiryu Kazuma | The other Dragon |