In “Persona 5 Royal,” you’ll cross paths with Goro Akechi, the enigmatic detective with a flair for justice. As the Justice Confidant, Akechi’s relationship with Joker is more intricate than most. Unlike the original game, where his confidant ranks increased automatically, “Royal” requires you to actively spend time with Akechi to deepen your bond. This guide will ensure you make the right choices to fully unlock the potential of the Goro Akechi Justice Confidant.
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General Information on Goro Akechi

The Justice Arcana, represented by Goro Akechi, traditionally symbolizes balance and fairness but can also indicate bias when reversed. Akechi’s Persona, Robin Hood, embodies the spirit of the folk hero known for his sense of righteousness. To advance Akechi’s confidant ranks, you’ll need to seek him out in Kichijoji, typically on Wednesday and Saturday nights.
Meeting Goro Akechi and Unlocking His Confidant

Your initial meeting with Goro Akechi is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for your future interactions. This encounter will unlock Rank 1 of his Confidant and introduce you to the complexities of Akechi’s character. Pay close attention to this meeting, as it foreshadows the nuanced relationship you’ll develop with him.
Ranking Up the Justice Confidant
To increase your rank with the Goro Akechi Confidant, you’ll need to engage in activities and conversations with him. Akechi can usually be found by the entrance to Penguin Sniper in Kichijoji.
When spending time with him, carrying a Justice Persona will grant you additional points during your interactions, helping you rank up faster. Moreover, you can give Akechi gifts to help you increase your bond with him even further. Here are the gifts that Goro Akechi likes:
Silver Bangle, Omni-Vitamin, Luxury Aroma Set, Robot Vacuum, Face Beautifier, and Electric Toothbrush.
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Dialogue Choices for the Goro Akechi Confidant
Here are the dialogue choices for each rank of the Goro Akechi Confidant, along with the responses that will earn you the most points:
- Rank 2
- “You always seem so busy.” (+2)
- “Shoot very carefully.” (+2)
- “I’ll go for a power shot.” (+2)
- “Maybe I’ll be a detective.” (+2)
- “No holding back next time.” (+2)
- “I see a lot of things.” (+3)
- Rank 3
- “Should’ve figured.” (+3)
- “Your life must be so hard.” (+2)
- “You’ve done nothing wrong.” (+2)
- Rank 4
- “Do they have coffee?” (+2)
- “Now this is my kind of club.” (+3)
- “Any recommendations?” (+3)
- “It’s a great place.” (+2)
- “Pretty frequently.” (+3)
- “I can use a microwave…” (+3)
- Rank 5
- “Have you played any?” (+2)
- “Are you used to gunplay?” (+2)
- “You wanted to be a hero?” (+3)
- “You did fine.” (+2)
- “You’ve still got a long way to go.” (+2)
- Rank 6
- “So relaxing…” (+2)
- “A while, huh?” (+3)
- “…You’ve been through a lot.” (+2)
- “This is nothing.” (+3)
- “I’ll stay until you’re ready.” (+3)
- Rank 7
- “Yeah, it’s convoluted…” (+2)
- “That’s why it’s so fun.” (+3)
- “I’ve made up my mind.” (+2)
- “I won’t miss my shot.” (+2)
- “It’s thanks to you.” (+2)
- Rank 8
- “What’d you want to discuss?” (+2)
- “You want to fight?” (+2)
- “Let’s do this.” (+2)
- “I definitely wouldn’t lose.” (+3)
- Rank 9 and 10
- The progression to ranks 9 and 10 of the Goro Akechi Confidant in “Persona 5 Royal” is tied to the story, and specific dialogue choices do not impact the outcome. These ranks are automatically achieved as you approach the end of Shido’s Palace, revealing significant developments in Akechi’s storyline.
Abilities Unlocked Through the Goro Akechi Confidant
As you spend time with Akechi and progress through his confidant ranks, you’ll unlock a series of abilities that enhance your capabilities:
- Rank 2: Sleuthing Instinct – At the start of battle, Joker may instantly learn one of a Shadow’s unknown affinities.
- Rank 4: Sleuthing Mastery – At the start of battle, Joker has a chance to reveal all of a Shadow’s unknown affinities.
- Rank 5: Follow Up – Akechi can perform a follow-up attack if Joker’s attack does not down the enemy.
- Rank 6: Detective Talk – Akechi can step in after Shadow negotiation fails, allowing a retry.
- Rank 7: Harisen Recovery – Akechi can cure status ailments inflicted on party members.
- Rank 8: Endure – Enables Akechi to withstand a lethal attack with 1 HP remaining once per battle.
- Rank 9: Protect – Akechi takes a mortal blow for Joker in battle.
Reaching Rank 8 is crucial as it unlocks a one-on-one duel against Akechi in Mementos, which serves as a pivotal moment in his confidant storyline. Be prepared with Personas that can withstand his varied attacks.
Conclusion
Navigating the Goro Akechi Confidant in “Persona 5 Royal” is a journey that requires careful planning and attention to detail. By making the right dialogue choices and taking advantage of the abilities unlocked at each rank, you’ll not only strengthen your bond with Akechi but also gain valuable skills to aid you in your quest as a Phantom Thief. Remember, the time you invest in Akechi’s confidant will pay off with both gameplay advantages and deeper insight into his complex character.
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