Character Progression

In Yakuza Kiwami, Kiryu's progression is multifaceted, focusing on four core stats and the unique Dragon Style. Understanding how to efficiently upgrade these will be crucial for overcoming the challenges of Kamurocho, especially the relentless Majima Everywhere system.

Experience Points (EXP) and Stat Growth

Kiryu earns EXP primarily through combat, completing substories, and engaging in various minigames. This EXP is then allocated to four distinct stat categories:

Spirit: Increases Kiryu's maximum Heat Gauge and improves Heat actions.
Technique: Enhances Kiryu's combat abilities, including attack speed and new combos.
Body: Boosts Kiryu's maximum health (HP) and defense.
Rush: Specifically upgrades the Rush combat style, unlocking new moves and enhancements.
Brawler: Specifically upgrades the Brawler combat style, unlocking new moves and enhancements.
Beast: Specifically upgrades the Beast combat style, unlocking new moves and enhancements.

To allocate EXP, access the "Abilities" menu from your smartphone. Here, you'll see a skill tree for each category. Prioritize upgrades based on your preferred combat style and current challenges. For instance, if you find yourself taking too much damage, invest in Body. If you want to unleash more powerful Heat Actions, focus on Spirit.

Dragon Style Revival

The legendary Dragon of Dojima style, Kiryu's signature fighting technique, is initially locked at the beginning of Kiwami. Its revival is intrinsically linked to the "Majima Everywhere" system. Each encounter with Majima Goro, whether planned or spontaneous, contributes to unlocking and upgrading the Dragon Style.

Majima Everywhere Encounters

Majima will appear in various forms and locations throughout Kamurocho. These encounters are not random; they often trigger after certain story beats or by fulfilling specific conditions. Here's how to maximize your Dragon Style progression:

Street Encounters: Majima will frequently ambush Kiryu on the streets. Defeating him in these impromptu brawls grants significant experience towards Dragon Style. Keep an eye out for his distinctive laugh or the "Goro Majima" health bar appearing unexpectedly.
Disguised Majima: Majima loves to play dress-up. Look for him disguised as a police officer, a zombie, a bartender, or even a hostess. These encounters often have unique triggers. For example, the "Officer Majima" encounter often occurs near the police station in the Theater District.
Specific Locations: Majima can be found in fixed locations after certain story chapters.
- Pachinko Parlor (Volcano): Check inside the parlor on Nakamichi Street.
- Billiards (Vincent): Majima might challenge you to a game of billiards at Vincent on Tenkaichi Street.
- Bowling (Mach Bowl): Head to Mach Bowl on Nakamichi Street for a bowling challenge.
- Pocket Circuit Stadium: Majima might appear as a racer or spectator.
Text Messages and Calls: Pay attention to your phone! Majima will often send cryptic texts or call Kiryu to taunt him, hinting at his next appearance. These are direct clues to finding him.
"Mad Dog of Shimano" Rank: Your rank in the Majima Everywhere system directly correlates to the Dragon Style's strength. As you defeat Majima more often, your rank increases, unlocking more powerful Dragon Style abilities.

Training with Komaki

While Majima is the primary method for Dragon Style progression, certain advanced techniques can only be learned from the legendary martial artist, Komaki. You can find Komaki at the Komaki Dojo, located on the rooftop of the building accessible via the fire escape in the Champion District.

Komaki's Training: Komaki will teach Kiryu powerful counter-attacks and defensive maneuvers, such as the "Komaki Parry" and "Komaki Tiger Drop." These require specific conditions to unlock, often involving reaching a certain "Mad Dog of Shimano" rank or completing other substories.
Required Items: Some of Komaki's training sessions may require specific items, such as the "Sacred Tree" or "Dragon's Eye". These can often be found in lockers around Kamurocho or as rewards for completing substories. Consult the "Item Locations" section of this guide for precise details.

Weapon and Gear Upgrades

Beyond Kiryu's inherent abilities, his effectiveness in combat can be significantly boosted by equipping and upgrading weapons and gear.

Purchasing Weapons: Visit the various weapon shops in Kamurocho, such as the Dragon & Tiger (unlocked through a substory) or the Ebisu Pawn shop for basic armaments.
Weapon Modding: The Dragon & Tiger shop offers weapon modification services. By providing specific materials (e.g., High-Quality Iron, Sturdy Wood), you can enhance a weapon's attack power, durability, or even add elemental effects. Materials can be found by defeating enemies, completing substories, or purchasing them from specific vendors.
Protective Gear: Equip vests, arm guards, and other protective items to reduce incoming damage. These can be purchased from various shops or found as rewards. Look for items like the "Bulletproof Vest" or "Toughness Emperor" for significant defensive boosts.

Remember, a well-rounded Kiryu is a formidable Kiryu. Don't neglect any aspect of his progression to ensure you're ready for whatever the Tojo Clan throws your way.