How Does Kiriko Know Hanzo? Unraveling the Connections in Overwatch Lore
Kiriko’s relationship with Hanzo Shimada is rooted in their shared upbringing and training under her mother, Asa Yamagami, a skilled swordmaster. While not related by blood, Kiriko and Hanzo’s lives became intertwined through their connection to the Yamagami Blades and the Shimada clan. Hanzo, alongside his younger brother Genji, were both students of Asa, and Kiriko was her daughter. This meant that Kiriko and Hanzo, along with Genji, grew up training together. This history creates a strong link between them in the Overwatch universe. Though the age gaps between the characters presents a challenge to the continuity of the story and lore.
The Roots of Their Relationship
Shared Training and Childhood
The foundation of Kiriko and Hanzo’s relationship stems from the fact that they were both trained by Asa Yamagami. Asa wasn’t just a master of the blade; she was also Kiriko’s mother. This unique family dynamic placed Kiriko in close proximity to Hanzo and Genji, who were also being trained by Asa in sword fighting and martial arts. This shared experience forged a connection between them that goes beyond mere acquaintanceship.
The Yamagami Family Legacy
The Yamagami family, known for their expertise in bladesmithing, particularly under Toshiro Yamagami, Kiriko’s father, has deep ties with the Shimada clan. Asa, Kiriko’s mother, being their swordmaster, further solidified this connection. As such, Kiriko spent her childhood in an environment where the Shimada brothers were frequently present, creating opportunities for them to develop a strong bond.
Beyond the Training Grounds
Their relationship is not just based on formal training. The article also highlights that Kiriko was a childhood friend to Hanzo and Genji. This indicates that there were probably shared experiences outside of the training grounds. This could have included activities that further strengthened their connection. In short, the bond between Kiriko and Hanzo was more than teacher-student or family associate. This bond was established during their formative years and shaped by shared experiences.
The Age Discrepancy Conundrum
One of the most significant sources of discussion among the Overwatch community is the age gap between Kiriko and the Shimada brothers. Kiriko is officially 21 years old, while Hanzo is 40 years old, and Genji is 37 years old. This large age difference has sparked controversy, making it difficult to reconcile their shared childhood training, as previously suggested by Blizzard. This issue has led to questions about the accuracy of early lore and how these characters could have trained together as equals when they were younger. Despite this, their relationship is that of those who had known each other since childhood, with the story being that they did train together.
The “Protector of Kanezaka”
Beyond the family ties, Kiriko’s role as the “Protector of Kanezaka” adds another layer to her interactions with Hanzo. Her responsibility to protect the shrine in Kanezaka and uphold her family’s legacy positions her as a crucial figure in the region, potentially leading to future interactions with the former members of the Shimada Clan. Although the Shimada clan is no longer in power, Hanzo’s ties to his family’s legacy and his moral compass may lead to further interactions and alliances with Kiriko in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Kiriko related to Hanzo and Genji?
No, Kiriko is not related to Hanzo or Genji by blood. She is a member of the Yamagami family, who have a close working relationship with the Shimada clan. Her mother, Asa Yamagami, trained them both, fostering a family-like bond but not a blood one.
2. How did Kiriko and Hanzo meet?
Kiriko and Hanzo met through her mother, Asa Yamagami, who was the swordmaster for the Shimada clan. Kiriko grew up alongside Hanzo and Genji, training together under Asa’s guidance from a young age.
3. Did Kiriko, Hanzo, and Genji all train together?
Yes, the lore indicates that Kiriko trained with Hanzo and Genji under her mother’s tutelage. They all shared a common training background in martial arts and swordsmanship. This created a close relationship between them.
4. How old was Kiriko when she met Hanzo?
This is a point of contention due to the age gap of the characters. If Hanzo was training from a very early age, Kiriko may have been as young as 5 when they first began training together, though these details are unclear.
5. Why is there confusion about the age differences between Kiriko, Hanzo, and Genji?
The stated ages of Kiriko (21), Hanzo (40), and Genji (37) make it difficult to accept they all trained together as equals, as previously implied. This has led to lore discrepancies and questions within the community.
6. What role does Kiriko’s mother, Asa Yamagami, play in the story?
Asa Yamagami is a crucial figure, being the swordmaster who trained both Hanzo and Genji, as well as her own daughter, Kiriko. Her guidance forms the basis of their shared history and fighting styles.
7. What is the significance of “Yamagami Blades”?
Yamagami Blades is the family business of Kiriko and a reference to her father’s profession. It highlights the Yamagami family’s expertise in bladesmithing and their long-standing relationship with the Shimada clan, who were once their main clients.
8. Is Kiriko the fox spirit?
Kiriko is a human who has a connection to the fox spirit. However, she is not the fox spirit itself. Her abilities are tied to the fox spirit which adds to the complexity of her character.
9. How does Kiriko’s connection to the fox spirit relate to Hanzo?
Kiriko’s connection to the fox spirit and her responsibility as the “Protector of Kanezaka” is a personal one that does not directly relate to Hanzo. However, her role could potentially lead to future interactions with Hanzo or Genji if they cross paths again.
10. What is the significance of Kanezaka to Kiriko?
Kanezaka is the shrine that Kiriko is tasked with protecting, which also houses the family’s legacy. This responsibility shapes much of her identity and purpose in the Overwatch universe.
11. How was Kiriko’s childhood shaped?
Kiriko’s childhood was shaped by the many powerful figures in her life including her mother Asa, her grandmother, and her father Toshiro. This upbringing instilled her with strong moral convictions and a desire to protect her community.
12. Did Kiriko get nerfed?
Yes, Kiriko received nerfs in a recent update. Her healing abilities were adjusted with the Protection Suzu being reduced but also providing burst healing when removing debuffs.
13. Is the Shimada clan still in power?
No, the Shimada clan is now defunct after Genji actively dismantled their criminal empire. Most of the members are either deceased or in prison, with the Hashimoto taking control of Shimada Castle.
14. Who are some other important characters in Kiriko’s backstory?
Besides Hanzo, Genji and her parents, Kiriko’s grandmother, who taught her about the fox spirit and her family’s shrine duties, is also an important figure. She is also one of the main reasons Kiriko feels the need to protect her home.
15. What are some of Kiriko’s abilities in Overwatch 2?
Kiriko is known for her abilities including her healing abilities using her protection suzu and kunai throwing. This makes her a valuable support hero to any team.
By understanding these details, the relationship between Kiriko and Hanzo, along with the other members of the Shimada clan, comes into a sharper focus within the intricate lore of Overwatch 2. Despite the age discrepancies, their shared past and the connections formed through their family ties still play a significant role in the game’s story.