The Mad Dog and the Dragon: Decoding the Bromance of Majima and Kiryu
If you’ve ever entered the chaotic, neon-lit world of Yakuza, one thing stands out. It’s not just about fighting thugs or singing karaoke. At its core, it’s about deep relationships, loyalty, and the unique bond between Goro Majima and Kazuma Kiryu.
These two icons of Kamurocho are more than rivals or friends. They are something special. Let’s explore this fascinating dynamic, dig into their quirks, and see why their bond captivates fans.
Why “Kiryu-chan”? The Affectionate Nickname
Ever wonder why Majima always calls Kiryu “Kiryu-chan”? It’s not just playful; it shows Majima’s fondness. In Japanese, “-chan” is used for close acquaintances, often younger people or romantic interests. Using it for Kiryu shows warmth and plays an endearing role. Think of it as Majima’s odd way of saying, “Hey, buddy!”
Kiryu’s Quiet Respect for the Mad Dog
While Majima is loud with declarations and antics, Kiryu’s respect is quiet. His acknowledgment of Majima’s unconventional strength shows this. Kiryu is not one for grand gestures. Yet, he engages Majima consistently. This reflects deep respect. Their bromance thrives on mutual understanding and shared battles.
Majima’s “Obsession”: More Than Just a Fight
Majima is obsessed with Kiryu. But this obsession isn’t creepy; it’s akin to an artist loving their muse. Majima seeks a worthy rival, someone to challenge him. Kiryu fits that role perfectly with his resolute strength. At first, this rivalry pushes Majima. But deep down lies admiration for Kiryu’s resilience.
As time progresses, their relationship shifts. Majima aids Kiryu sometimes just because. They evolve from rivals to frenemies. Their interactions remain chaotic and entertaining, a unique duo navigating the world together.
Bromance: Yakuza Style
Their connection is a distinct type of bromance. It’s forged through gang wars and built on respect. Majima’s flamboyant affection contrasts with Kiryu’s stoic nature. This creates a compelling relationship that pushes and pulls, defining their bond effectively.
Do They Even Care About Each Other? (Spoiler: Yes, Deeply)
Majima’s pursuit of Kiryu might seem purely antagonistic at first. But digging deeper reveals genuine care. The ongoing “wanting to kill Kiryu” aspect turns into a joke between two men with immense respect. When it counts, they cover for each other. This occurs in typical explosive, Yakuza fashion.
Friends? Rivals? Frenemies? It’s Complicated.
With Majima and Kiryu, friendship and rivalry coexist simultaneously. Their relationship flows with the story’s narrative. Sometimes they do battle, and sometimes Majima offers help unexpectedly. Their existence lies in a grey area, where rivalry fuses with friendship, resulting in an unpredictable and captivating dynamic.
Decoding the Mad Dog: Majima Unmasked
“Yo, Kiryu-chan!” – The Yakuza 0 Greeting Heard ‘Round the World
That moment at the end of Yakuza 0 is unforgettable. Majima meets Kiryu in Kamurocho and shouts, “Yo, Kiryu-chan!” This line showcases Majima’s character: his recognition of Kiryu and his theatrical nature. It highlights the beautiful chaos of their relationship.
The Kansai Accent: A Comedic Mask
Majima’s playful Kansai accent is more than just regional flavor; it’s comedic. The Kansai region is famous for its lively comedy scene. Majima’s exaggerated accent is a nod to this culture. It plays into his persona, making him larger-than-life, unpredictable, and a bit funny, even amidst chaos.
The Mad Dog’s Fighting Style: A Dance of Chaos
Majima’s title as “Mad Dog of Shimano” perfectly describes his fighting style. It’s not rigid or disciplined; it’s pure chaos. He combines punches, kicks, and knife strokes with energy that overwhelms foes. It’s brutal and effective, earning him his fearsome reputation.
Tattoo Tales: The Hannya and the Snake
Majima’s tattoo is a work of art, featuring a Hannya mask and a white snake. The mask symbolizes jealousy and rage while showing various emotions from different angles. The snake represents good fortune in Japanese folklore. This tattoo symbolizes Majima’s complex nature: his demons and hints of hope.
Majima’s Age: A Few Years Wiser (or Wilder) Than Kiryu
Majima is slightly older than Kiryu, about three to four years. In Yakuza 0, he says he’s 24, setting Kiryu at about 20 or 21. This age difference adds depth to their bond. Majima has more life experience, giving him a cynical view amidst all the madness.
Weakness Exposed: Fire!
Even Majima has vulnerabilities! In traditional video game logic, his weakness is fire. Perhaps it’s symbolic of his fiery nature or simply a dislike of getting burned. Remember this if you face him; fire could alter the outcome.
Has Majima Ever Killed? A Moral Quandary
Despite his Mad Dog persona, Majima hasn’t crossed into killing initially. In Yakuza 0, he reluctantly agrees to take out Makoto Makimura under pressure. This conflict hints at an inner moral compass buried under bravado.
Love in the Shadows: Makoto Makimura
Speaking of Makoto, she represents the woman Majima loves in Yakuza 0. Their connection runs deep in the game’s narrative, showing a softer side of Majima that contrasts sharply with his Mad Dog image. Even chaotic characters have emotional depth.
Kiryu Kazuma: More Than Just a Dragon
Who is Kiryu-chan, Really?
Kiryu Kazuma, or “Kiryu-chan,” is the backbone of the Yakuza series. He’s the Dragon of Dojima, known for unwavering loyalty, strength, and a moral code in a corrupt world. He stands against Majima’s chaos, a pillar of strength and integrity.
Young Dragon: Kiryu’s Age in Yakuza 0
In Yakuza 0, Kiryu is only 20 years old, navigating the treacherous yakuza landscape. His inherent strength and principles shine brightly even at this young age. They set the foundation for his legendary future.
Dragon of Dojima: More
Than Just a Tattoo
Kiryu is the “Dragon of Dojima.” His dragon tattoo on his back shows this. It’s not just ink. It signifies his status in the Dojima Family. This group is a powerful part of the Tojo Clan. Kiryu earned this title through loyalty and strength. His reputation speaks volumes.
Battling More Than Thugs: Kiryu’s Illness
In Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Kiryu faces cancer. This character flaw surprised many. It showed vulnerability. Kiryu, seen as invincible, confronts mortality. Even dragons can fall. This revelation adds depth to his character.
Kiryu’s Kryptonite: Ice
Kiryu’s weakness is ice. This contrasts Majima’s weakness, fire. Despite their differences, they share a bond. Fire and ice represent chaos and order. In many ways, they are opposites yet linked.
Faking Death: A Dragon’s Sacrifice
Kiryu fakes his death in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. He does not do it for himself; he does it to protect his family. Haruka and Haruto are his main concerns. The Daidoji faction could threaten them if they knew he lived. So, he sacrifices himself, a typical act for his character.
Family Ties: More Than Just Yakuza
Family means everything to Kiryu. He adopted Haruka Sawamura as his daughter. This bond shapes his life and choices. He also cares for nine kids at Morning Glory Orphanage. He shows his capacity for love beyond violence.
Yakuza 0: Genesis of a Bromance (Sort Of)
When Worlds (Barely) Collide: Majima and Kiryu’s First (Almost) Meeting
Despite being main characters in Yakuza 0, Majima and Kiryu hardly meet. Their stories run parallel. Each faces separate challenges in the underworld. Their paths finally converge in Kamurocho at the end of the game, setting their future intertwined destinies.
Setting the Stage: 1988’s Kamurocho and Sotenbori
Yakuza 0 takes place from December 1988 to January 1989. Players experience late 1980s Japan. The game features Kamurocho and Sotenbori, inspired by real-life locations. These settings become the backdrop for Kiryu and Majima’s stories.
Supporting Cast: Beyond the Dragon and the Mad Dog
Makoto Makimura: The Woman Who Saw Through the Mask
Makoto Makimura is central to Yakuza 0, especially for Majima. She is blind due to a traumatic kidnapping experience. Majima connects with her deeply but does not pursue a relationship. He believes she needs distance from pain and to lead a normal life. Tragically, Makoto does not recognize him at their last meeting.
The Tojo Clan: Based in Reality
The Tojo Clan is based on real-life yakuza groups. It draws inspiration from the Inagawa-kai group in Japan. The game accurately portrays elements of organized crime, enhancing its authenticity.
Story Beats: Twists and Turns
Kiryu’s Fate at the End (of Yakuza 6, and Beyond)
Yakuza 6 ends with an ambiguous fate for Kiryu. After his battle, he collapses, appearing dead. He is taken to a hospital, but his fate remains unclear for some time, adding tension. This paves the way for future stories, showing he is not done yet.
Majima’s Farewell to Makoto: Protection Through Distance
Majima decides to leave Makoto to protect her. He knows that being with him would bring danger to her life. This decision stems from love and an understanding of risks. It is a noteworthy act of selflessness.
The Wife Betrayal: A Dark Chapter in Majima’s Past
Majima has a tragic history of betrayal by his wife. In a moment of rage, he hits her during an argument. This dark moment reveals his flaws and human side, emphasizing his capacity for anger and regret.
Gameplay and Series Deep Dive
Strength Showdown: Majima vs. Kiryu – Who Wins?
Who is stronger, Majima or Kiryu? This question divides Yakuza fans. Kiryu is often seen as powerful, but Majima displays raw strength too. In combat, it’s debatable. Majima’s unpredictable style makes him formidable even against the Dragon of Dojima.
Kiwami vs. 0: A Matter of Excellence
Is Yakuza Kiwami as good as 0? Kiwami is a solid remake with its own story but lacks brilliance compared to Yakuza 0. Its combat and side stories are not as engaging or exciting. Yakuza 0 set a standard that Kiwami doesn’t quite reach.
Majima’s Infinite Wealth: Back in the Game
The Mad Dog returns in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth as a supporting character. His presence adds chaos and flair to this latest game installment.
Yakuza 8 (Gaiden): Majima’s Role – Don’t Expect Center Stage
For those wishing for a major role for Majima in Yakuza 8, series director Yokoyama says he won’t be central to the plot. He may appear but will not lead in this narrative.
Good Guy Gone Mad? Majima’s Moral Arc
Is Majima truly a good guy? His character development makes it complex. He begins as an antagonist in the first game. Yet over time, he becomes an anti-hero. His morals are gray, often questionable, but his loyalty to Kiryu shines through.
Majima in Hawaii: Pirate King of the Pacific?
Majima finds himself in Hawaii in “Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.” In this spin-off, he suffers amnesia and becomes a pirate. He forms a bond with a cat named Goro. In a twist, he was seeking treasure to help Kiryu before losing his memory.
This exploration shows the depth of their relationship. Majima and Kiryu are more than game characters; they are icons symbolizing complex relationships within the Yakuza universe.
