I’m writing this because Ritsu Kageyama has always fascinated me as a younger brother who remains steadfast, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. His growth and integrity shine throughout the series, and I’d like to share those highlights with you.
Spoiler Alert: Major spoilers for “Mob Psycho 100,” including specific plot points and character developments, lie ahead.
Basic Profile and Personality
Ritsu Kageyama is introduced in the manga around Volume 1, Chapter 6, and his pivotal arcs continue well into later volumes like Volume 6 and Volume 12. At 13 years old, he stands about 159 cm tall (roughly 5’3”), sports excellent grades, and serves as a student council member in Salt Middle School—traits that contrast sharply with his shy older brother, Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama.
- Age: 13
- Class: 1st year, Class 3
- Traits: Quick-witted, athletic, and highly regarded by peers
- Inner Conflict: Burdened by envy and fear regarding Mob’s psychic powers
From early on, Ritsu appears composed and dutiful. However, behind that calm exterior, he wrestles with deep-seated insecurities about not being able to use psychic abilities like his “world-changing” brother.
Sibling Dynamics: Envy and Admiration
Ritsu’s relationship with Mob is central to his story (Volume 2, Chapter 10). As a child, he was both intrigued and frightened by Mob’s powers. A traumatic incident left him with a head injury caused by Mob’s psychic outburst—one that Mob himself regrets to this day. Although Ritsu outwardly assures his brother that it’s fine, he harbors lingering fear of another possible “psychic rampage.”
Yet underneath that fear lies admiration. Ritsu quietly emulates his brother’s kind nature and yearns for the day he might develop his own powers. He practices spoon-bending in secret, hoping to match the extraordinary abilities he saw in his brother.
Awakening His Own Powers
In Volume 5, Chapter 29, Ritsu’s psychic abilities finally surface—sparked by stress and goaded further when he comes into contact with a spirit named Ekubo (known as Dimple). Initially, Ritsu is thrilled by this “awakening,” viewing it as a ticket to escape his previous frustrations. But with newfound power also comes danger:
- School Council Turmoil: Pressured by the ambitious president, Ritsu attempts to purge “delinquent” students, culminating in guilt and inner turmoil.
- Slip Toward Darkness: Briefly inflated by his own ability, Ritsu becomes reckless, engaging in petty fights and even confronting his brother (Volume 5, Chapter 31).
- Realization: Only when Mob steps in to stop him does Ritsu acknowledge his spiraling behavior and regret his choices.
The Battle Against “Claw”
Ritsu’s major turning point unfolds during the “Claw” conflict (Volume 6, Chapter 36 onward). Mistaken for Mob, Ritsu is kidnapped by the psychic organization, Claw. This leads to:
- Collaboration with Awakened Lab Members: Ritsu joins other young psychics to escape before reuniting with Mob.
- Confrontation with Shimazaki (Season 2): Although thoroughly outmatched, Ritsu refuses to betray his ideals or switch sides, showing remarkable courage.
- Strengthening Brotherhood: By the time “Claw”’s arc resolves, Ritsu and Mob emerge with a stronger mutual respect, free from the envy that once plagued Ritsu.
Standing Firm in the Face of Trauma
In the later chapters (Volume 12, Chapter 90 onward), Mob’s overwhelming powers spiral out of control. Despite carrying childhood trauma from Mob’s earlier psychic outburst, Ritsu boldly tries to quell his brother’s rage. He admits to seeing Mob’s rampaging self as “another brother”—an acknowledgment that prompts him to push himself to his own 100% state to protect both Mob and others.
Through this, Ritsu realizes he craved power not just to match Mob, but to shield him if he ever lost control. His resistance to injustice and unwavering care for Mob exemplify his true nature: a compassionate younger brother who refuses to abandon his beliefs.
FINAL THOUGHT
I’ve often marveled at how Ritsu embodies a blend of envy, admiration, and steadfast loyalty. In my view, these conflicting emotions are exactly what make him a compelling character. Despite his struggles, his willingness to stand by Mob—even when everything points to danger—truly resonates with me.
Ritsu Kageyama may have started from a place of envy, but he ultimately grows into a determined figure who values empathy over unchecked power. Whether warding off manipulative classmates, confronting formidable psychics, or protecting his older brother, Ritsu remains defined by inner strength and unwavering conviction.
Reference
Wikipedia Japanese: モブサイコ100 主要キャラクター
Mob Psycho 100 Official Website: https://mobpsycho100.com/character/ritsu/
Thank you for joining me in exploring “Ritsu Kageyama.”
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