'Alice in Borderland' season 3 introduces Ryuji, sparking fan debate over new character’s role

Alice in Borderland season 3 has arrived on Netflix, introducing new characters and stories beyond the original manga. Among them is Ryuji Matsuyama, played by Kento Kaku, whose role has already caused discussion among fans.

Season 2 concluded where Haro Aso’s manga ended, meaning season 3 moves into new territory. Returning characters Arisu (Kento Yamazaki) and Usagi (Tao Tsuchiya) are now married, but favourites such as Chishiya and Kuina appear only briefly. The new storyline sees Arisu and Usagi pulled back into the Borderlands for the Joker card tournament.

Ryuji is central to their return. Introduced as an assistant professor researching near-death experiences at Shushikan University, he interviews survivors of the Tokyo meteorite disaster, including Arisu. His fascination with the afterlife stems from a desire to re-enter the Borderlands, where he had previously cleared several games despite being in a wheelchair due to an injury in the real world.

In episode one, Ryuji wins a game against a former resident and secures a Joker card, which leads to Banda’s reappearance. Banda later confronts Arisu, warning that he and Usagi will return to the Borderlands for new games. Usagi is brought back first, with Ryuji joining her team.

Controversy arose before release when Netflix Japan’s TikTok shared a chart suggesting Ryuji might be a “romantic interest” for Usagi. Fans voiced frustration online, with some arguing the relationship between Arisu and Usagi should remain central to the story.

Others noted that the chart’s wording was speculative, with the arrow pointing only from Ryuji towards Usagi, not the other way around.

With the series confirmed for six episodes, Ryuji’s role in the Joker card tournament remains pivotal. Alice in Borderland season 3 is streaming now on Netflix.