We might already know how history plays out, but where will you stand as the Black Ships sail onto Japan? Should you side with Katsura or Taka in Rise of the Ronin?
Should You Side with Taka or Katsura in Rise of the Ronin?
As you play the game, you’ll find yourself tugged back and forth between the side of the Pro-Shogunate Faction and the Anti-Shogunate Faction. And your decision on who to side with will ultimately affect your ending, bonds, and rewards.
But the first chance you’ll have to decide between these two factions is during the quest “The Plot to Assassinate Harris”. During this quest, Ryoma will introduce you to Kogoro Katsura at the Sakura Inn. Speak to Kogoro, and you’ll be able to unlock the anti-shogunate route. Kogoro Katsura will lay out his plan to assassinate the US diplomat Townsend Harris, and he’ll want to recruit you to his cause.
Alternatively, you can speak to Taka, who you’ll meet early on with Ryoma in the Pleasure District. Speak to Taka, and she’ll ask you to protect Harris, thus unlocking the pro-shogunate route.
Ultimately, your decision here won’t impact the ending of the game. You’ll have two more chances to decide which faction you want to support, with the last decision being made in Kyoto.
Rewards for Completing ‘The Plot to Assassinate Harris’
As for rewards, you’ll get the same loot no matter who you opted to side with in the quest The Plot to Assassinate Harris in The Rise of the Ronin:
- 1,300 Gold
- 25 Karma Points
- Exquisite Katana x 2
- Excellent Consumable x 1
- Excellent Crafting Material x 1
Where the rewards will differ is in the optional task you’ll have to complete. Both optional tasks will require you to defeat formidable foes, but your rewards will differ. Those who sided with Katsura will get three silver coins, and those who sided with Taka will get an exquisite-rarity rifle.
But it’s also worth noting that being consistent with who you side with has benefits. Strengthening your relationship with the anti- or pro-shogunate faction will further your faction bond. A stronger bond will net you special items and blessings in your preferred faction’s base.
Anti-Shogunate bond rewards include:
- Faction Base: Store discount
- Redesign: Student’s Kimono
- Title: Youth Leader
- Treatise on Enlightenment
Pro-Shogunate bond rewards include:
- Faction Base: Store discount
- Redesign: Western Workwear
- Redesign: Workman’s Hat
- Title: Civil Militia Sub-Official
- Treatise on Enlightenment
You can expect The Plot to Assassinate Harris to be a challenging mission, no matter whose side you’re on. So, it’s a good idea to recruit Gonzo if you haven’t already.
