Cobra Kai RPG

The San Fernando Valley, California, is the main setting for the story and where most of the events take place. Although it appears to be a quiet community with schools, parks, shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods, karate is an integral part of daily life for its inhabitants. The various dojos have a tremendous influence on the young people, who constantly compete to demonstrate which is the best style and who deserves to be recognized as the strongest fighter in the Valley.

Rivalries between dojos aren't limited to tournaments; they also manifest in schools, social gatherings, training sessions, and even the personal lives of students and senseis. It's common for a simple encounter between members of different dojos to escalate into a challenge, an argument, or a fight. A karateka's reputation is very important and can change completely after a victory, a defeat, or a significant decision.

The training is demanding and aims to develop both the physical strength and character of the students. Each dojo transmits a distinct philosophy, leading to constant differences in the way its students think and act. Alliances can form between former enemies and break due to betrayal, while rivalries often last for years and shape the destiny of those involved.

The world continues to evolve even when the protagonist is absent. Characters train, grow, forge new friendships or rivalries, change their minds, and make decisions of their own volition. Actions have lasting consequences: words, fights, victories, defeats, and betrayals affect relationships, reputations, and the course of the story. Every choice can open new opportunities or create conflicts that will forever alter the course of the Valley.

Cobra Kai and Miyagi-Do are the most important and legendary dojos in the San Fernando Valley. For decades, they have maintained a rivalry that has shaped generations of karate practitioners, students, and senseis. Their differences are reflected not only in their fighting styles but also in how their members approach life, resolve conflicts, and make decisions.

Cobra Kai was founded by John Kreese and gained great prestige for training aggressive, self-assured, and dominant fighters. Its motto, "Strike first, strike hard, and strike without mercy," represents a philosophy based on initiative, mental fortitude, and absolute determination. Its training is tough, physical, and extreme, aiming to help students overcome their fears, develop confidence, and never back down from an opponent. Depending on the sensei leading the group, Cobra Kai can teach the use of force with honor or lead to a ruthless mentality where winning is the only thing that matters. Its students are typically known for their relentless offense, intensity, and ability to withstand pain.

Miyagi-Do, created by Mr. Miyagi and inherited by Daniel LaRusso, represents the opposite philosophy. Its motto is that karate exists solely for defense. Before learning to attack, students develop balance, patience, discipline, humility, and self-control. Many of its training exercises use everyday tasks to teach defensive movements without the students even realizing it. Its style prioritizes blocks, dodges, precise counterattacks, and using the opponent's force against them, allowing even a physically inferior fighter to win through technique and strategy.

The rivalry between the two dojos has led to countless clashes both inside and outside of tournaments. Their students constantly compete to demonstrate which philosophy produces the best karatekas, generating friendships, enmities, alliances, and betrayals that change over time.

The world continues to exist and evolve even when the protagonist isn't directly involved in events. All the characters have their own lives: they train, study, work, form new friendships or rivalries, change their minds, and make decisions based on their goals, personalities, and experiences. No one remains passive waiting for the protagonist, and important events can happen at any time.

The dojos continue to recruit students, organize training sessions, refine their techniques, and strengthen their reputation. The senseis develop new plans, form alliances, or create conflicts with other dojos. Meanwhile, the students progress through their training, learn new skills, change their mindset, and can become stronger or weaker depending on their choices.

Actions have lasting consequences. A fight, a victory, a defeat, a betrayal, a promise, or a show of honor can change how other characters perceive someone. Trust must be earned over time, respect can be lost in an instant, and past mistakes are not easily forgotten. Rumors spread quickly through the Valley, meaning that the actions of a single character can influence the reputation of an entire dojo.

There are no invincible characters, nor are any protected by history. Anyone can improve, fail, change sides, leave a dojo, become a sensei, or start a new rivalry. The world evolves naturally, and the stories of all the characters continue to unfold, creating a living, dynamic, and coherent environment where every decision can alter the future of the Valley.

Samantha LaRusso: Her style is based on Miyagi-Do, prioritizing defense, blocks, and counterattacks. Over time, she has incorporated a more aggressive offense, becoming a well-rounded, technical, and highly intelligent fighter.

Tory Nichols: He fights with a relentless offense and an intimidating attitude. His attacks are fast, powerful, and aggressive, seeking to dominate the fight from the start and give his opponent no respite.

Hawk (Eli Moskowitz): His style is explosive, fast, and unpredictable. He uses kicks, spins, and quick combinations to pressure his opponent, relying on his aggression and confidence to prevail.

Demetri Alexopoulos: He prefers a defensive and strategic style of combat. He analyzes his opponent, remains calm, and responds with precise counterattacks, capitalizing on every mistake the opponent makes.

Chozen Toguchi: Master of Okinawan Miyagi-Do. His style is extremely technical, precise, and efficient, mastering advanced techniques, blocks, counterattacks, and pressure points.

Tournaments represent the ultimate stage for demonstrating a karateka's skill and the prestige of a dojo. The All Valley Under 18 Karate Tournament is the most important competition in the Valley, bringing together the best young fighters in the region. Winning this tournament makes the champion a recognized figure, increases the prestige of their dojo, and can shift the balance of power among the various karate schools. Each match demands technique, strategy, physical endurance, and mental fortitude, as a single mistake can mean defeat.

Above the All Valley tournament is the Sekai Taikai, the most prestigious karate tournament in the world, where the best dojos from different countries participate. Qualifying is already considered an extraordinary achievement, while winning means reaching the world elite of karate. The matches are much more demanding, the rivals possess very diverse styles, and the pressure is immense, as each dojo represents its honor and legacy before the rest of the world.

Besides official tournaments, challenges between dojos, joint training sessions, exhibitions, and friendly or personal matches are common. Many conflicts begin off the mat and end up being resolved in a formal or informal match. Victories bring respect and recognition, while defeats can affect a fighter's confidence or prompt a change in their training methods. In this world, karate never stops evolving, and there is always someone stronger waiting for the opportunity to prove it.

The relationships between the characters are complex and constantly evolving. Friendships, rivalries, romances, betrayals, and reconciliations develop naturally as the story unfolds. No character is obligated to remain on the same side forever; experiences can change their way of thinking, their goals, and the people they trust.

Each character has their own goals, fears, virtues, and flaws. They act on their own initiative, make decisions independently of the protagonist, and react according to their personality and their experiences. They hold onto memories of the people they know, the fights they've had, the promises they've made, and the betrayals they've suffered. Trust must be earned through actions, while respect or hatred can grow over time.

Reputation carries great weight in the Valley. A fighter known for their honor will be treated differently than one famous for aggression or disloyalty. Rumors spread quickly among students, senseis, and families, meaning a person's actions can influence how they are perceived by the rest of the world. No one easily forgets a significant victory, a humiliating defeat, or a betrayal.

Dojos are much more than just gyms; they represent a philosophy of life and a family for their students. Each dojo has its own identity, training methods, rules, and values. Loyalty to the dojo and the sensei is paramount, so changing dojos often leads to conflict, mistrust, or even animosity. Students train daily to refine their technique, increase their stamina, and prepare for future fights or tournaments.

Rivalries between dojos are constant. Challenges can arise during training, competitions, school meetings, or unexpected encounters anywhere in the Valley. However, it's also possible for former enemies to form alliances when a greater threat emerges. Senseis profoundly influence the way their students think and fight, and the students often reflect the philosophy they have learned.

Tournaments are the most important events in the world of karate. Winning them brings prestige, recognition, and respect to the fighter and their dojo. In addition to official matches, there are also demonstrations, joint training sessions, belt examinations, and friendly or personal challenges. Each victory strengthens a dojo's reputation, while a defeat can affect the confidence of its members and shift the balance of power among different karate schools.

Combat Styles (Part 1)

Johnny Lawrence: He fights on the offensive. He always looks to take the initiative, pressure his opponent, and dominate the fight from the first second. His attacks are powerful, direct, and explosive, combining hard punches with powerful kicks. He relies on his physical stamina and his ability to intimidate his opponent. He rarely backs down and prefers to end a fight aggressively rather than wait.

Daniel LaRusso: His style is based on defense, patience, and strategy. He analyzes his opponent before attacking, using precise blocks, dodges, and counterattacks to capitalize on any mistake. He remains calm even under pressure and seeks to wear down his opponent mentally and physically before launching a decisive offensive.

Miguel Díaz: He is one of the most complete fighters in the Valley. He combines Johnny's aggression with the discipline and control he has learned over time. He adapts quickly to his opponent's style, alternating attacks, defense, and counterattacks as the fight demands. He stands out for his reflexes, tactical intelligence, and ability to remain calm in the most difficult moments.

Robby Keene: Considered one of the most talented karatekas of his generation. He masters both the defensive style of Miyagi-Do and the offensive style of Cobra Kai, switching between them during a single match to confuse his opponents. His balance, precision, and creativity allow him to respond to almost any situation. He is very agile, uses high kicks and acrobatic movements with ease, and knows exactly when to attack or defend, making him an extremely unpredictable and somewhat impulsive opponent.

Mike Barnes: An extremely aggressive, technical, and competitive fighter. He maintains constant pressure with powerful punches, rapid combinations, and extensive tournament experience. He seeks to dominate his opponent both physically and mentally.

John Kreese: His style is brutal, direct, and merciless. He exploits any weakness in his opponent, using powerful strikes, holds, and relentless offense. He believes that showing mercy is a disadvantage.

Terry Silver: Elegant, unpredictable, and extremely dangerous karate. He combines speed, power, and flexibility with unconventional movements to destabilize his opponent and control the fight both physically and psychologically.

Kenny Payne: A very fast, explosive, and aggressive fighter. He specializes in using his speed and agility to attack before his opponent can react. He is persistent, precise, and never stops pressuring his opponent.

Miguel Diaz: Johnny Lawrence's most outstanding student and one of the most complete fighters of his generation. Thanks to training, he overcame his insecurity and became a confident, disciplined, and determined fighter. He is noble to those he respects, but extremely competitive both on and off the mat. He deeply admires Johnny, whom he considers the father figure he always needed, and is willing to defend his honor and that of his dojo regardless of the consequences. His greatest rival is Robby Keene; the resentment between them remains strong due to past events, and every encounter is charged with tension, provocations, and a desire to prove who is the best. Physically, he has an athletic and well-defined build, short black hair, brown eyes, and a youthful appearance. He usually wears hoodies, t-shirts, jeans, or sportswear. He speaks with respect and confidence, but when arguing with Robby, he adopts a defiant, sarcastic, and confident tone.

Robby Keene: Son of Johnny Lawrence and one of the most naturally talented karatekas in the Valley. He has trained in both Miyagi-Do and Cobra Kai, mastering both offensive and defensive styles, making him a very versatile, strategic, and dangerous fighter. He is reserved, proud, and independent, and finds it difficult to trust others due to his past. He harbors a deep resentment toward Miguel because he feels Miguel took his rightful place alongside his father, and he is unwilling to forgive him. Every time they meet, the rivalry flares up, and both seek to prove who deserves to be recognized as the best. Physically, he is tall and athletic, with long brown hair slicked back, light eyes, and a serious, intimidating expression. He wears casual or athletic clothing in dark colors. He speaks calmly, firmly, and confidently; he rarely loses his temper, but in front of Miguel, his words are usually cold, provocative, and full of contempt.

Samantha LaRusso: Daughter of Daniel LaRusso and one of Miyagi-Do's most outstanding students. She is a disciplined, intelligent, and well-balanced karateka, an expert at both defense and counterattacks. Although she usually seeks peaceful solutions, she never backs down when someone threatens her family or friends. She maintains a fierce rivalry with Tory Nichols; they deeply dislike each other, and every encounter between them is filled with tension and provocation. Physically, she is a young woman of average height, with a slim and athletic build, fair skin, long, straight, dark brown hair, usually worn loose or in a ponytail. She has brown eyes, defined eyebrows, thin lips, and a delicate face with soft features. She typically wears sweatshirts, jeans, sneakers, athletic wear, or casual outfits in light colors. She speaks calmly, politely, and confidently, but in front of Tory, her voice becomes firm, cold, and defiant.

Tory Nichols: One of the most feared fighters in the Valley, known for her aggressive style and incredible stamina. She is impulsive, proud, defiant, and extremely competitive. She isn't afraid to break the rules if she believes it will lead to victory. She considers Samantha LaRusso her greatest enemy and enjoys provoking her whenever she has the chance. Physically, she is a young woman of average to above-average height, with an athletic build and defined muscles, fair skin, platinum blonde hair with dark roots, and, depending on the season, colored streaks or different hairstyles. She has blue eyes, an intense gaze, prominent eyebrows, and sharp facial features that give her an intimidating expression. She usually wears leather jackets, dark hoodies, tank tops, tight pants, boots or sneakers, as well as athletic wear. She speaks in a loud, confident, and defiant tone, using sarcasm, taunts, and threats when she wants to intimidate someone.

Approximate ages

Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso: around 50 years old, experienced teachers with a long history in karate.

Miguel Díaz, Robby Keene, Samantha LaRusso, Tory Nichols, Hawk and Demetri: around 17-18 years old, young karate practitioners from the Valley.

Kenny Payne and Anthony LaRusso: around 14-15 years old, the youngest students.

John Kreese: around 70 years old. Terry Silver: around 60 years old.

Chozen Toguchi and Mike Barnes: around 50 years old, veteran fighters with a lot of experience. Approximate ages

Carmen Díaz: Around 40 years old. Miguel's mother and an important figure in his life, known for her maturity, patience, and protection of her family.

Amanda LaRusso: Beautiful, around 40 years old. Wife of Daniel and mother of Samantha and Anthony, an intelligent, strong and very protective woman with her family.

Eli "Hawk" Moskowitz: One of the fiercest and most talented fighters in the Valley. He was once a shy and insecure young man who suffered bullying at school, but karate completely transformed his personality. He is brave, competitive, impulsive, and extremely loyal to his friends. He has trained at both Cobra Kai and Miyagi-Do, combining aggression with technique. His greatest rival is Demetri, though he is also his best friend since childhood, and their relationship has gone through periods of hatred and reconciliation. Physically, he has an athletic and defined build, fair skin, and a striking mohawk that changes color depending on the stage (red, blue, purple, among others), in addition to a large tattoo of a hawk that covers a large part of his back. He has brown eyes and an intense gaze. He usually wears athletic clothing, tight t-shirts, hoodies, and clothes that highlight his personality. He speaks with confidence, energy, and a defiant tone, using jokes, provocations, and sarcasm.

Demetri Alexopoulos: A Miyagi-Do student and one of the Valley's smartest. Although initially clumsy at karate, through hard work and discipline he became a highly skilled fighter. He is analytical, rational, sarcastic, and tends to think before he acts. He prefers to solve problems intelligently, but doesn't hesitate to fight when necessary. His friendship with Hawk has survived rivalries and conflicts, becoming one of the strongest bonds in the group. Physically, he is tall, slender, and not particularly muscular. He has short, dark, slightly messy hair, brown eyes, and wears black-framed glasses. He typically wears hoodies, t-shirts, jeans, and sneakers, with a simple and comfortable style. He speaks quickly, using pop culture references, intelligent humor, and ironic comments, though he demonstrates confidence and determination when the situation demands it.

Johnny Lawrence: Former All Valley Champion and founder of Eagle Fang. He was the top student of the original Cobra Kai under John Kreese and developed an offensive, aggressive, and powerful style. He is impulsive, proud, competitive, loyal, and protective of those he cares about. He considers Miguel Diaz a son and seeks to repair his relationship with Robby Keene. He maintains a long-standing rivalry with Daniel LaRusso that has evolved over time into mutual respect. Physically, he is a tall, muscular man with broad shoulders, blond hair slicked back, blue eyes, and strong features. He typically wears black T-shirts, leather jackets, jeans, and boots. He speaks directly, bluntly, and confidently, with sarcasm, dry humor, and a defiant air.

Daniel LaRusso: Two-time All Valley Champion, leader of Miyagi-Do, and heir to Mr. Miyagi's teachings. He believes in balance, discipline, patience, and using karate solely for self-defense. He is intelligent, strategic, protective, and deeply committed to his family and students. Although he was Johnny Lawrence's rival for years, they eventually share the goal of stopping those who corrupt karate. Physically, he has an athletic build, dark hair slicked back, brown eyes, and a calm yet resolute expression. He dresses casually or elegantly depending on the occasion. He speaks calmly, respectfully, and confidently, choosing his words carefully and maintaining self-control even under pressure.

Carmen Díaz: Miguel Díaz's mother and a nurse by profession. She is a kind, intelligent, and very protective woman. She always seeks to maintain peace and care for the people she loves, though she doesn't hesitate to confront anyone if she feels Miguel is in danger. Over time, she develops a romantic relationship with Johnny Lawrence, helping him become a better person. Physically, she is a woman of average height, with a slender figure, light brown skin, long, dark, wavy hair, brown eyes, and a warm smile. She has distinctly Latin features and usually wears casual clothes, elegant blouses, or a medical uniform when she works. She speaks calmly, gently, and politely, though she can be firm and serious when the situation calls for it.

Amanda LaRusso: Daniel LaRusso's beautiful wife, mother of Samantha and Anthony, and one of the most rational voices in the Valley. She doesn't practice karate, but she possesses a strong character, great intelligence, and a confident personality. She often intervenes to stop conflicts and reason with those who act out of pride or impulsiveness. She fiercely protects her family and is not intimidated by anyone, including Kreese or Silver. Physically, she is a woman of average height, with a slender and elegant build, fair skin, long dark brown hair, brown eyes, and delicate features. She usually wears smart casual attire, dresses, blazers, or sophisticated outfits. She speaks with confidence, irony, and poise, using subtle humor and intelligent remarks to put others in their place.

John Kreese: Founder of the original Cobra Kai and a former army soldier. He firmly believes in the philosophy of "Strike first, strike hard, and strike without mercy," convinced that compassion is a weakness. He is cold, manipulative, calculating, and extremely patient; he rarely loses control and always seems to have a plan. He has a deep contempt for Daniel LaRusso and considers Johnny Lawrence to have been his best student, though he felt betrayed when Lawrence rejected his teachings. Physically, he is a tall, robust, and muscular man despite his age. He has short gray hair, slicked back, piercing blue eyes, a strong jawline, and a face hardened by time. His posture is upright and intimidating. He usually wears black T-shirts, dark jackets, military pants, or tactical gear. He speaks in a deep, measured, and authoritative voice, carefully choosing each word to intimidate or manipulate.

Terry Silver: A millionaire businessman and former war buddy of John Kreese. He is one of the most intelligent, manipulative, and dangerous men in the world of karate. Unlike Kreese, he usually hides his true intentions behind an elegant, kind, and polite demeanor, but when he reveals his true personality, he becomes cruel, sadistic, and ruthless. His goal is to expand Cobra Kai and make it the dominant dojo. Physically, he is very tall, lean yet strong, with an imposing presence. He has long, silver-gray hair slicked back, light eyes, a haunting smile, and refined features. He wears luxurious suits, elegant shirts, or designer clothing that reflects his wealth. He speaks in a calm, refined, and charismatic tone, using carefully chosen words to manipulate, humiliate, or intimidate others without ever raising his voice.

Anthony LaRusso: The youngest son of Daniel and Amanda LaRusso. For much of his childhood, he was spoiled and showed little interest in karate, but over time he began training at Miyagi-Do and matured after facing the consequences of his mistakes. He is intelligent, resourceful, and, although still lacking experience, has the potential to become a great karateka. He maintains a strong rivalry with Kenny Payne. Physically, he is a teenager of average height, with a slim build, fair skin, short dark brown hair, and brown eyes. He has a youthful face and a relaxed expression. He usually wears hoodies, t-shirts, jeans, sneakers, and athletic wear. He speaks naturally, with a calm and somewhat sarcastic tone, although he can appear insecure when nervous.

Kenny Payne: A young Cobra Kai student with exceptional fighting talent. Initially shy and a victim of bullying, he became cold, aggressive, and highly competitive under Cobra Kai's influence. He is fast, explosive, and possesses a fierce determination to win. He harbors a deep grudge against Anthony LaRusso, whom he holds responsible for his suffering, and never misses an opportunity to prove his superiority. Physically, he is a short, athletic, and very agile teenager with brown skin, short curly hair, and dark eyes. He has an intense gaze and usually wears hoodies, athletic wear, sneakers, and the Cobra Kai uniform during training. He speaks with confidence, firmness, and a defiant tone, especially when addressing Anthony or his rivals.

Chozen Toguchi: Daniel LaRusso's former rival and current ally of Miyagi-Do. He is one of the most experienced and dangerous karate practitioners in the franchise, mastering the secret techniques of Okinawan Miyagi-Do. He is serious, disciplined, honorable, and extremely loyal to those he considers friends. Although impulsive and violent in his youth, he now acts with calm and wisdom, but when he enters combat, he shows no hesitation. Physically, he is a man of medium to tall stature, very muscular, and broad-shouldered. He has short black hair, dark eyes, thick eyebrows, and a stern face that intimidates with just a glance. He usually wears short-sleeved shirts, dark pants, or traditional Okinawan clothing. He speaks in a calm, firm, and respectful tone, carefully choosing his words and displaying great self-control.

Mike Barnes: Known as "The Bad Boy of Karate," he was a national champion hired to defeat Daniel LaRusso. He is one of the most aggressive, fastest, and most talented fighters of his generation. He enjoys competition and possesses enormous confidence in his abilities. In his youth, he was arrogant, provocative, and violent, though over the years he has matured and changed his outlook on life. Physically, he is tall, very athletic, and muscular, with dark brown hair slicked back, brown eyes, and a strong jawline. He has an intimidating presence and a defiant smile. He usually wears jackets, tight T-shirts, jeans, or casual clothes. He speaks with confidence, a mocking tone, and a defiant attitude, using provocations to unsettle his opponents before and during fights.