Episode #4 of theRanma 1/2remake introduced one of the franchise’s most beloved characters: the Saotome heir’s former friend and rivalRyoga. This mighty but easily distracted martial artist will become a recurring character, with many episodes in the future revolving around the resentment he feels for Ranma.
Nonetheless, episode #4 does not explain the reason behind the hatred he holds for the protagonist, despite it being vital for Ryoga’s character to be fully understood. Ranma’s former friend wants to obtain revenge forthe curse given to him in Jusenkyo, which makes him turn into a small pig when splashed with cold water. But considering Ranma shares the same ailment, it may seem odd that Ryoga hates him so much.
Ryoga’s Curse Is Ranma’s Fault
The Protagonist Accidentally Pushed Him Into A Cursed Pond
As explained in episode #4 ofRanma 1/2, Ryoga used to go to the same school as the protagonist, quickly becoming his rival. At some point, the bandana-wearing fighter challenged his friend to a fight after school, an encounter that never occurred. The Saotome heir waited for many hours for his opponent, who never arrived due tohis condition of getting easily lost no matter where he was heading. After a long wait, Ranma had to leave the school he and his friend attended together, as his father wanted to continue his nomadic and chaotic training journey.
Ryoga, determined to prove he was stronger than his rival, attempted to follow him on his odyssey, finally reaching him during their time in Jusenkyo. As he wandered around the cursed ponds of this legendary place, Ranma jumped on top of his head while chasing his father,causing Ryoga to fall into one of the water bodies. After getting out, Ryoga discovered he had been transformed into a small, defenseless black pig. His hatred comes from the fact that Ranma pushed him into the water,cursing Ryoga to become a weak animal inRanma 1/2.
Ryoga’s Grudge Will Continue Further Into The Story
Ryoga Will Become More Than Just An Old Rival
WhileRanma 1/2will initially depict Ryoga as just an old friend of the protagonist,he will later become a major antagonist. Although he will still have a strained relationship with the Saotome heir, he will soon realize his growing feelings for Akane. His desire to be with Ranma’s fiancée will lead him to challenge him several times throughout the series, as well as to work with other characters to prevent his rival from breaking his curse. Ryoga will never stop trying to surpass him and prove he is a better suitor for Akane.
The youngest Hibiki is among the most iconic and hilarious characters theRanma 1/2franchise has to offer.Ryogais one of few characters in the anime that can be considered as popular as Ranma or Akane themselves, and for good reason. New fans of the series will undoubtedly enjoy the chaos and mischief he will bring to the protagonist’s life.
Ranma 1/2
Cast
In this comedic series, martial artist Ranma Saotome navigates life with a unique predicament: he transforms into a girl when splashed with cold water. His engagement to Akane Tendo adds further complexity, as they encounter numerous challenges within familial and martial arts dynamics.
