Very underrated Ryuji character growth

I really love these moments for Ryuji. I think his growth that he goes through during the game is really under appreciated.

He let the fame and glamour of being a phantom thief get to his head and wanted to use its name for his own personal interest which is against what the phantom thieves originally established themselves as. Ryuji was always really hard on himself, shown by how he constantly blamed himself for the track team getting shutdown and for his Mother crying and apologising for being a single mother. This is the reason why during the Okumura arc we see Ryuji as the most frustrated and the one shouting. He’s so disappointed in himself for allowing himself to act however he wanted and justifying it by claiming he acts in the name of “Justice” which he even admits would make him no different than their targets.

In shidos arc it’s clear to see he’s refound his convictions and acts as the once selfless character he did during Kamoshidas palace. His sacrifice during the escape of Shidos palace really embodies that for me and the best part is, he saves the thieves by running. A full circle moment for Ryuji.