Hump Day Husbandos: Keiji Shinogi (Your Turn to Die)

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Lilia Hellal
July 19, 2023
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It has been a while since I had a good enough of an excuse to revisit the topic of Your Turn to Die, arguably one of the most iconic death game titles to ever grace us, and it’s not even been concluded yet. I have to restrain myself from endlessly singing its praises, but since the game actually hit Steam’s storefront during February of this very year, I figured that the time is past due to once again recommend this incredible Early Access title.

So please join me as I also indulge in crushing on the traumatic beauty of Keiji Shinoji(‘s sexy arms). I promise it won’t read as too unhinged. Maybe?

Light spoilers ahead. I suggest playing the game before reading.

Who is Keiji Shinogi?

Unfortunately for him, but luckily for us, Keiji Shinogi is a fellow participant of the titular death game who we find trying to work alongside main character Sara. The self nicknamed “Mr. Policeman” relies on referring to himself with such trustworthy titles time and time again during the early days of the game.

Keiji makes it a priority in telling us that he can be trusted, but just how honest is he really being with us?

Why we love him

This chill, laid-back, carefree person of authority is quick to sound flirtatious and make jokes in any given moment – considering the deadly situation he currently finds himself trapped in, it’s pretty impressive of him to always take everything on the chin. Nothing seems to really phase the man, making him feel all that more dependable and strong, but like anyone, there’s a clear weak point to his mental defensive walls.

Considering the tragic and traumatic secret past he is continuously attempting to silently come to terms with, the many bizarre decisions he makes in the game becomes easily understandable. It explains his lack of confidence when dealing with firearms, and how he tends to encourages Sara to always take control of the group despite his status as an ex-detective.

Keiji has actually mentally clocked out a long time ago, having lived with the same sense of guilt Sara recently experiences in the early events of the game. Keiji continuously feels like a failure as a result of the trauma he has experienced, and the corruption around him continues to further obscure his better judgement and morality.

He pursues revenge but at the same time wants to be a better person, so much so that he has actively shapes himself to resemble his childhood hero Mr. Policeman. He seemingly uses the nickname on himself to falsely reassure not just those around him, but most importantly, himself.

Why you will love him

To say that Keiji has a troubled past is putting it lightly. He is clearly distrustful of everyone around him, especially once his past is revealed – although this makes a solid starting point for his character development.

Gradually, Keiji starts to become more honest and genuine over time. As the deuteragonist of the game, Joe might have initially been Sara’s closest buddy, but due to certain events Keiji quickly becomes Sara’s emotional anchor during her most vulnerable moments.

In fact, Keiji becomes genuinely concerned and compassionate when it comes to Sara especially. The very few times we see Keiji snap he is still considerate of Sara’s wellbeing, and during certain Game Over scenes he even offers his life to save hers. Bless his troubled soul.

Keiji happens to be quite complex and intriguingly morally ambiguous, considering all that we currently know about him (and what we don’t know about him). He also gets a great deal of character development, more so than any other character.

If you have yet to play the game then I implore you to do so via Steam as soon as you can.