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Ryota Suzui

Ryota SuzuiJabami (鈴井 涼太) is one of the protagonists inKakegurui – Compulsive Gambler. After suffering a defeat in a game against Mary Saotome, he was relegated to the status of a “housepet.” Fortunately, his financial burden was alleviated when Yumeko Jabami generously provided him with money as a token of gratitude, marking the beginning of their friendship at Hyakkaou Private Academy.

If you lose your nerve once you’ve been driven back this far, it’s even harder to make a comeback.
— Ryota Suzui

Appearance

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Ryota’s full appearance.

Ryota Suzui is a teenage boy characterized by his pale complexion and average height. He sports a tousled mane of neck-length brown hair that frames his face, complementing his warm brown eyes. Ryota dons the distinctive uniform of Hyakkaou Private Academy, which consists of a striking red blazer embellished with black trim along the cuffs and collar, highlighted by elegant gold buttons that add a touch of sophistication. Beneath the blazer, he wears a crisp white button-up shirt, intentionally left unbuttoned at the collar, paired with a sleek black tie. His ensemble is completed with stylish gray-black school jeans and classic brown loafers, reflecting both a sense of casual comfort and adherence to the academy’s dress code.


Personality

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Ryota happily showing Yumeko around.

Ryota Suzui is characterized by his kind-hearted nature and approachable demeanor, though he doesn’t always express himself openly. Throughout Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler, he often appears timid, lacking the assertiveness that others might exhibit. However, his friendship with Yumeko Jabami serves as a catalyst for his personal growth, gradually instilling a sense of self-confidence that was previously absent.

Despite his reluctance to assert himself, Ryota possesses a remarkable level-headedness, enabling him to remain calm in tense situations. He harbors a deep concern for Yumeko, often fretting over her safety due to her penchant for high-stakes gambling. This protective instinct highlights his loyalty and the strength of their bond.

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Yumeko’s compulsive tendencies beginning to manifest in Ryota.

Academically, Ryota demonstrates intelligence, even in a school environment that prioritizes gambling over traditional studies. He possesses a sharp analytical mind, allowing him to quickly grasp the nuances of various gambling strategies. When participating in games, he meticulously evaluates every detail, often devising tactical approaches to maximize his chances of success. While he has the potential to be an adept gambler, he typically opts to play it safe, preferring to avoid risks whenever possible.

In a pivotal moment during a gamble against Kirari Momobami, the formidable student council president, Ryota’s perceptiveness shines through. He swiftly identifies her manipulative tactics, which fosters a newfound confidence within him. This realization empowers him to assert himself against external control, marking a significant turning point in both his self-assurance and his burgeoning gambling skills.

Drama

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Ryota’s in live action.

In the live-action adaptation ofKakegurui – Compulsive Gambler, Ryota Suzui is portrayed by Mahiro Takasugi. While he often occupies a supporting role, his character is notably more vocal compared to the anime. Ryota frequently engages directly with the audience, providing commentary on unfolding events and enhancing the viewing experience with his insights.

His pragmatic approach often serves as a humorous contrast to Yumeko’s wild and impulsive nature, positioning him as a key source of comic relief throughout the series. The dynamics of their friendship highlight the juxtaposition between his cautious mindset and her thrill-seeking behavior.

Ryota’s character gains additional depth in several episodes, where he takes on a more active role. Notably, he intervenes to rescue Yumeko from Jun Kiwatari, stepping in for Midari Ikishima by cleverly pretending that a council member is nearby and ready to intervene. This clever ruse not only showcases his loyalty but also his resourcefulness. Additionally, Ryota observes their gambling matches through a monitor, allowing him to remain connected to the action while providing a unique perspective on the high-stakes drama unfolding at Hyakkaou Private Academy.


Relationships

Yumeko Jabami
Since their first encounter, Ryota has found himself swept up in a whirlwind of intense experiences alongside Yumeko Jabami. Through every gamble and challenge, he has steadfastly supported her, demonstrating a deep appreciation for their friendship. Over time, Ryota’s admiration for Yumeko has blossomed into romantic feelings, complicating their bond as he navigates the line between friendship and love amidst the chaos of high-stakes gambling.

Mary Saotome
Initially, Ryota was relegated to the role of Mary Saotome’s housepet, a status that left him vulnerable. However, as their paths began to converge in pursuit of shared objectives, a friendship gradually emerged between them. This newfound camaraderie has allowed Ryota to witness a different side of Mary, fostering a mutual respect that strengthens their connection as they navigate the treacherous world of Hyakkaou Private Academy together.

List of Gambles

Opponents Gambles
  • Kirari vs Yumeko & Ryota (Anime only)
  • Mary & Ryota vs Miyo & Miri
  • Most of the election candidates

Etymology

    Ryota’s name is composed of two kanji characters:Ryo(涼), which translates to “cool” or “fresh,” andta(太), meaning “high” or “tremendous.” Together, these characters convey a sense of refreshing strength. His surname,Suzui(鈴井), is also made up of two kanji:Suzu(鈴), which means “little bell,” andi(井), translating to “water well.” This combination evokes imagery of tranquility and resonance, reflecting aspects of his personality and background.

Trivia

    • Although Ryota is one of the central protagonists, he often finds himself in the background, yet he remains intricately tied to the various gambling matches throughout the series.
    • Among all the characters introduced, Ryota stands out as the most level-headed individual, maintaining composure even in high-stakes situations.
    • He is the only character explicitly noted to be right-handed; this detail, while not implying exclusivity, highlights a unique aspect of his character.
    • When asked to name her favorite character (aside from her own), Minami Hamabe, the actress portraying Yumeko in the live-action adaptation, expressed her admiration for Ryota.
    • Mahiro Takasugi, who brings Ryota to life in the live-action version ofKakegurui, previously portrayed Mitsuzane Kureshima (Kamen Rider Ryugen) in the Tokusatsu seriesKamen Rider Gaim.