Kiryu Kazuma has been the charismatic figurehead of Sega's Like a Dragon series since its inception in 2005. Fans have been captivated by this criminal with a heart of gold, drawn to his stoic demeanor and underlying altruism. Throughout the games, players have seen Kiryu undergo significant transformations, from shedding his iconic white suit to relinquishing his name to protect his loved ones. The newest installment in the beloved franchise, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, not only brings back the beloved character but also unveils a crucial aspect of his identity.
Exploring the Legacy of the Dragon of Dojima
When we first meet Kiryu Kazuma, he has climbed the ranks within the Dojima crime syndicate, a branch of the formidable Tojo clan. Known for his combat prowess and marked by a massive dragon tattoo, he earned the moniker 'The Dragon of Dojima.' Despite his intimidating reputation, Kiryu embodies honor and loyalty, exemplified when he takes the fall for a crime he did not commit. Serving a decade in prison as Inmate 1240, he steadfastly retains his name even as he faces relentless pursuit after his release. Transitioning to a quieter life in Okinawa under the alias 'Uncle Kaz,' Kiryu remains true to his core identity as Kiryu Kazuma.
The Evolution of Kiryu: From Denial to Acceptance
In Yakuza 6: The Song of Life, Kiryu orchestrates his own 'death' following a staged shooting to safeguard his family. Subsequently, in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, operating covertly for the Daidoji Faction, Kiryu adopts the alias 'Joryu,' a blend of 'pure' and 'dragon' in kanji. Tasked with unraveling plots and safeguarding innocents, Kiryu, now known as Taichi Suzuki, eventually rediscovers his true self amidst the sunny shores of Hawaii. Diagnosed with cancer due to past exposures, the clock ticks ominously as he grapples with his mortality.
A Journey of Redemption and Reconnection
As 'Taichi,' Kiryu's declining health forces him to confront the legacy of 'Kiryu Kazuma' and the impact he had on those he aided. Initially shunning his former identity, believing its association with yakuza deeds to be a burden, Kiryu realizes the significance of his true name. Supported by allies, he embraces his past, reverting to Kiryu Kazuma for medical treatment, allowing his adoptive family to locate him. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth marks a pivotal moment as Kiryu reconciles with his heritage, symbolized by his final attire, 'The Resurrected Dragon.' While fans speculated it might be a farewell, the game leaves Kiryu's future open-ended, hinting at more adventures to come.