Ryu

Ryu has the mannerisms and wisdom of a man much older than himself, thanks to his prolific lineage and status as a respected ninja. His exploits have given him an attitude far removed from most others, and he understands things in more abstract and philosophical terms. Much like Gen Fu and Eliot (Dead or Alive), he has a calm nature, much like water; free-flowing most of the time, but unforgiving and crushing when roused. With the Dead or Alive tournament, he has done away with many of the subplots involving other characters, instead focusing solely on the larger goals that present themselves.

He is Hayate's best friend and an ally of Kasumi and Ayane. He and his ninja brothers have been directly involved in defeating every major threat in the DOA tournaments, defeating the rogue Tengu himself in single combat during the second tournament. Ryu has become friends with several DOA tournament participants, most notably Jan Lee, with whom he has a mutual respect.