Ronin Romance: Options & Favor Guide

In Rise of the Rōnin, forging strong bonds with characters is a core element of the gameplay. These relationships can evolve into deep connections, even romantic ones. This guide covers the mechanics of increasing favor, understanding “Veiled Vows,” and details on the romance options available.

How to Increase Favor in Rise of the Rōnin

Building strong relationships requires effort. Increasing favor unlocks new quests, skills, and, of course, the potential for romance. Several methods can be employed to improve your standing with characters:

• Dialogue Choices: When conversing with a character, select dialogue options that align with their beliefs and values. Thoughtful responses will yield positive results.
• Bond Missions: Successfully completing bond missions designed for specific characters significantly boosts your relationship. These missions often involve assisting them with personal challenges or shared goals.
• Gifting: Giving a character a gift they appreciate is a surefire way to improve their opinion of you. Experiment to find what they like best.

Reaching maximum favor opens the door to “Veiled Vows,” allowing you to cement a romantic relationship.

What are Veiled Vows in Rise of the Rōnin

The “Veiled Vow” system represents the game’s romantic relationship mechanic. Once you’ve maximized your favor with a character, a unique marker appears, indicating they have something important to discuss.

Initiating the conversation and selecting options that express romantic interest, such as “I want to take our relationship further,” will trigger the Veiled Vow ceremony, signifying a deeper bond. This is how you begin a romance.

It’s worth noting that you can engage in multiple Veiled Vows simultaneously, representing multiple romantic interests. However, if you wish to focus on a single relationship, you can break existing vows by selecting dialogue options that express a desire to return to a platonic status.

All Romanceable Characters in Rise of the Rōnin

Rise of the Rōnin offers a diverse cast of characters that can be romanced. Each has their own preferences, missions, and dialogue to explore. Here’s a breakdown of the romance options:

Ryoma Sakamoto

A charismatic and influential figure, Ryoma is a key player in the fight for Japan’s future. Building a strong bond with him involves understanding his vision and supporting his ideals.

• Preferred Gifts: Imported Beer, Milk Chocolate, European Dandy’s Kit. These show you understand his worldly interests.
• Bond Missions: “The Men from Tosa,” “The Two Apprentices,” “A House Divided,” “The Ties that Bind,” and the crucial “Crossroads of Dawn” (requires Ryoma to survive the Omni Inn Incident). These missions demonstrate your commitment to his cause.
• Conversations: “Family Values,” “The Ties that Bind Ryoma.” Engage thoughtfully with these to deepen your connection.

Shinsaku Takasugi

A passionate revolutionary, Shinsaku is driven by a desire for change. Connecting with him means aligning with his radical spirit and supporting his fight.

• Preferred Gifts: Japanese Poetry Anthology, Treasured Sake, Landmark Ukiyo-e. This shows appreciation for his culture.
• Bond Missions: “Try Your Luck,” “Something to Believe In,” “Where There’s a Will,” “The Spice of Life.” Demonstrate your unwavering support through these quests.
• Conversations: “A Change of Tune,” “I’ll Walk My Own Path,” “Better and Brighter.” Show that you understand his commitment to revolutionary ideals.

Kogoro Katsura

A skilled strategist and leader, Kogoro is a pillar of the resistance. Earning his trust involves proving your loyalty and demonstrating your competence.

• Preferred Gifts: Treasured Sake, Imported Beer, Premium Whiskey. These reflect his sophisticated tastes.
• Bond Missions: “The Seed of Doubt,” “A Fragile Alliance.” These missions test your trustworthiness.
• Conversations: “After All is Said and Done.” Engage thoughtfully with these to deepen your connection.

Genzui Kusaka

A dedicated warrior and strategist, Genzui’s loyalty lies with his clan. To gain his favor, you must show respect for tradition and prove your own strength.

• Preferred Gifts: Imported Beer, Traditional Daruma. Simple, yet reflective of his values.
• Bond Missions: “The Way of the Warrior,” “Terms of the Deal,” “At the End of the Charge,” “A Fresh Start.” Showing your dedication in battle will win his respect.
• Conversations: “A Teacher’s Greatest Joy,” “Easy Living.” Demonstrate understanding and empathy.

Soji Okita

A master swordsman in the Shinsengumi, Soji is devoted to his duty. Romancing him requires siding with the Shogunate and demonstrating your own martial prowess.

• Preferred Gifts: Azuki Bean Confection. A small token of appreciation.
• Bond Missions: “The Supreme Swordsman” (requires siding with the Shogunate during the Ikeda Inn Incident), “A Moment of Brilliance.” Prove your skill and loyalty to his cause.
• Conversations: “Those Whom Okita Treasures.” Show an understanding of what’s truly important to him.

Matthew Perry

A controversial figure, Matthew Perry represents the changing world. Romancing him requires embracing international relations and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

• Preferred Gifts: Moby Dick (Private Pressing), Premium Whiskey, Western Cigar. These reflect his Western tastes.
• Bond Missions: “Peace Negotiations,” “Test of Friendship.” Prove your value as an ally.

Ernest Satow

An intelligent and cultured diplomat, Ernest Satow appreciates the beauty of Japan. To win his heart, show genuine interest in Japanese arts and culture.

• Preferred Gifts: Japanese Poetry Anthology, Japanese Photo Album, Landmark Ukiyo-e. Show an appreciation for his intellectual pursuits.
• Bond Missions: “A Priceless Treasure,” “The Beauty of Friendship.” These demonstrate the value you place on cultural understanding.
• Conversations: “Satow’s Collection.” Express your curiosity and passion.

Ine Kusumoto

A pioneering female doctor, Ine Kusumoto faces societal challenges. Winning her affections requires supporting her ambitions and showing empathy for her struggles.

• Preferred Gifts: Milk Chocolate, Yew Koboku. A comforting gift will be very appropriate.
• Bond Missions: “Fruit from Distant Shores,” “Ine’s Worries.” Support her professional goals.
• Conversations: “A Doctor’s Duty,” “Another Side of Ine.” Show genuine understanding and appreciation for her.

Taka Murayama

A mysterious and alluring woman, Taka Murayama operates in the shadows. Earning her trust involves uncovering her secrets and proving your discretion.

• Preferred Gifts: Japanese Photo Album, Face Powder and Brush. Appealing to her personal aesthetic.
• Bond Missions: “Encroaching Shadows,” “A Light in the Darkness.” Protect her from her past.
• Conversations: “Windows to the Soul.” Peel back her layers.

Princess Atsuko

A member of the imperial family, Princess Atsuko is caught between tradition and change. Winning her heart requires understanding her responsibilities and offering her support.

• Preferred Gifts: Face Powder and Brush, Yew Koboku. Symbolic and elegant.
• Bond Missions: “Ideals and Reality.” Help her reconcile her duties with her desires.
• Conversations: “Personal Matters,” “Princess Atsuko’s Ire.” Show compassion and understanding.

Sana Chiba

A skilled martial artist, Sana Chiba is torn between her duties and her desires. Romancing her involves respecting her strength and offering her companionship.

• Preferred Gifts: Azuki Bean Confection, Yew Koboku, Metal Training Club. Show appreciation for her skills and interests.
• Bond Missions: “Turmoil of the Heart,” “A Tempest Calmed.” Help her find peace and balance.
• Conversations: “I must know!” Share your inner most secrets with her.

Fumi Sugi

A woman of few words, Fumi Sugi holds a deep well of emotion. Reach her with caring and gifts.

• Preferred Gifts: Yew Kobuku, Milk Chocolate
• Bond Missions: Last Wishes

Usugumo Dayu

A courtesan of unmatched beauty and grace, Usugumo Dayu is a figure of mystery. To win her favor, appreciate her artistry and offer her your respect.

Due to her unique position, Usugumo Dayu doesn’t have traditional Bond Missions. Instead, focus on finding Cats throughout the world and gifting them to her.

• Preferred Gifts: Japanese Poetry Anthology, Face Powder and Brush, Temari Ball. These reflect her refined tastes.
• Conversations: “The Meaning of “Usugumo”.” Listen with respect and show curiosity.