Persona 5 Royal: Star Confidant Guide – Hifumi Togo

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Quick Links

  • Star Confidant Perks
  • Star Confidant Overview
  • Rank 1
  • Rank 2
  • Rank 3
  • Rank 4
  • Rank 5
  • Rank 6
  • Rank 7
  • Rank 8
  • Rank 9
  • Rank 10
  • Special Interactions With Hifumi
    • Hawaii Interaction
    • Akihabara Interaction

Regularly playing shogi with a professional undeniably enhances your ability to think strategically, much like how becoming Hifumi’s confidant in Persona 5 Royal elevates Joker’s strategic thinking skills.

Even though Hifumi doesn’t have her own distinct character, elevating her confidant allows Joker additional tactical options within the metaverse, like the power to change battle team members on-the-fly.

These game mechanics can be a life-saver, especially in the secret Royal arc of Persona 5 Royal. Therefore, I have listed all the dialogues you should choose to rank up this social link as quickly as possible.

Star Confidant Perks

If you’re playing Persona 5 Royal at a higher difficulty level, it’s essential to focus on developing your relationship with Hifumi as his confidant, since there are numerous tactical aspects in the game that can only be accessed through this social link.

Rank Perks Description
Rank 1 Koma Sabaki Allows you to swap current party with backup members during Joker’s turn.
Rank 2 – –
Rank 3 Uchikomi Chance for a follow-up by a backup member if Joker downs an enemy.
Rank 4 – –
Rank 5 Kakoi Kazushi Allows you to attempt an escape, even when surrounded by the enemy.
Rank 6 – –
Rank 7 Narikin Earn double money if a battle is won in 1 turn after a successful ambush.
Rank 8 – –
Rank 9 Touryou Decreases turn delay to zero, allowing you to instantly escape battles.
Rank 10 Togo System Allows you to swap current party with backup members during anyone’s turn.

I can sit here and write paragraphs on most of these confidant bonuses and how much they have helped me out throughout my playthrough, but let’s keep things to the point for now.

The Togo System stands out as my top choice among its advantages, enabling you to change your team members strategically and focus on exploiting their vulnerabilities.

Star Confidant Overview

Hifumi is one of the charming characters in Persona 5 Royal. To unlock her confidant, you need to reach Rank 2 in Yusuke’s confidant first. Once you have reached that level, he will mention a shogi player who can be found hanging around Kanda during nighttime.

After the 26th of June, you will be offered a chance to visit Kanda Church. Speak with Hifumi who is seated in front of the church, and then proceed to initiate the social link.

With each rank up, you will also be given one point for the Knowledge social stat.

Hifumi is available to hang out with at night on Monday, Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday. Be sure to have a Star persona in your inventory before initiating the hangout to obtain the most amount of affection points possible.

For some extra affection points during non-ranking hangouts, some of the best giftsyou can give to Hifumi are the Fountain Pen, Incense Set, and Rakugo Collection.

Rank 1

You need at least level 3 charm (Suave) to start this confidant.

In this setting, due to your captivating personality, you approach Hifumi and request her tutelage in the art of playing shogi.

As a gamer, I can pick any line I prefer since none of them seem to boost my affection levels, unless it’s the final dialogue where she inquires about my phone number.

“Before you head home, would you like to exchange IDs with me? There’s no obligation, of course…” “Sure.” +2
“I guess we can.” +2
“Lucky me.” +3

Rank 2

It’s evident that Hifumi becomes completely engrossed in the game of shogi, delivering eloquent commentary along the way.

Hifumi admits that she takes on the queen’s part in her matches, which can be one of her flaws. Keep in mind, showing kindness is the most effective approach to earn affections.

I tend to get very aggressive. It’s as if I assume the role of a queen of a kingdom.” “That’s interesting.” +2
“I like the attitude change.” +0
“It’s a bit scary.” +0
“I mean, I can’t blame them… Certainly, I think I’m weird too.” “Have confidence in yourself.” +0
“Don’t worry about them.” +0
“Um, well, I’m doing a photoshoot for one…” “When is it coming out?” +0
“You’re, like, an idol.” +0
“But you don’t want to, right?” +2

Rank 3

The social link starts off with a persistent fan bombarding Hifumi with questions. You have to wait until he leaves first.

When our gaming session kicks off, Hifumi casually mentions that she’s often approached by folks who share my interests, and at our first encounter, she even thought I was just another fan like them!

The best dialogue you can choose for this rank are listed below.

“Did you see it…? It was called ‘The Venus of Shogi’…” “Describes you perfectly.” +2
“No, I didn’t.” +0
“That’s quite the headline.” +0
“It’s as if she wants to be the manager of a celebrity.” “You don’t enjoy it?” +0
“Having a difficult time?” +2
“You should just decline.” +0
Phonecall: “But this hardly seems fair… How can I teach you properly when I’m this distressed…?” “Bring it on.” +2
“Don’t worry about it.” +0
“This is part of our deal too.” +0

Rank 4

In this ranking, Hifumi plans to introduce you to a fresh social venue known as Jinbocho, where he’ll suggest some books that could help improve your skills in shogi.

However, your time together is mildly interrupted by one of Hifumi’s seniors, whom she defeated in a shogi competition. But aside from that one minor setback, your time together is generally well spent.

“She’s my senior… I defeated her in a recent title match.” “I didn’t mind.” +2
“She has a bad vibe.” +0
“Must’ve been the katsu curry.” +2
“What do you think about them?” “They’re ridiculous.” +0
“They’re cool.” +2
“Never heard of them.” +0
Phonecall: “I hope this won’t discourage you from spending time with me. Really, I would be delighted to do this again.” “I’d love to.” +2
“If our schedules match up.” +0
“Where shall we go next?” +2

Rank 5

On this occasion, you find yourself once again inside a church, and it’s there that you make your initial encounter with Hifumi’s mom. I acknowledge that this might not have been the meeting you anticipated, but given our circumstances, we must make the best of the situation at hand.

It turns out that Hifumi is prohibited from dating, with her mother insisting she devote all her attention to mastering shogi instead.

The best dialogues you can choose for this encounter are given below.

..I apologize. That must have been quite a shock.” “You’re not allowed to date?” +0
“She’s scary.” +2
“Accomplish things?” +0
“But it’s honestly quite difficult for me.” “You don’t like the attention?” +0
“You should stop then.” +2
“Have you told your mother?” +0
Phonecall: “She didn’t mean to offend you at all. I hope you’ll accept my apology in her place.” “No worries.” +0
“You’ve got a lot to deal with…” +2
“Why do you have to apologize?” +0

Rank 6

As Hifumi’s trust in you grows, she opens up about how her father is bedridden, her mother being the sole provider of the family, and how her mother believes that Hifumi will be able to support them if she becomes a famous shogi player.

To get the most positive response, it’s essential to comprehend how she feels and motivate her to take action in a way that aligns with those feelings.

“So now she’s even more insistent on having me do more TV and magazine interviews than before…” “You’ll be famous.” +0
“Is that frustrating?” +2
“The media is scary.” +0
“Maybe I should stop playing shogi and just get a job… That way, my family won’t get hurt again…” “Do you still like shogi?” +2
“Is that what you want to do?” +0
“Do what you love.” +2
Phonecall: “…You might make a fine priest yourself. Considering how good a listener you are, I mean.” “You think so?” +0
“You’re imagining things.” +2
“Confess your sins, my child.” +0

Rank 7

During your shared shogi game with Hifumi, she expresses her ambition to become the inaugural female professional league champion.

Be a good friend and encourage Hifumi to give it her all in her next professional match.

“…I confess I am a bit scared, though.” “That’s almost a relief.” +2
“Don’t let your guard down.” +0
“It may come down to luck.” +3
“But I’m sick of being treated like an idol. I have to show them what I’m made of!” “Give it your all.” +2
“I believe in you.” +3
“Idols are cool too.” +0

Rank 8

Prerequisite: You need level 5 (Erudite) knowledge to start this rank.

Hifumi explains that her mother views her not primarily as a shogi player, but as someone who could become famous through shogi, like an idol, due to her natural good looks.

Understandably, Hifumi is very upset and disheartened.

I’ll need to complete a task related to the Metaverse once I finish the initial part, which will take a few days.

“My mother told me that I should lose my upcoming exhibition match against the pro…” “What do you mean?” +0
“I don’t understand.” +0
“That way, I can use the weekly magazine’s popularity against them and instantly become famous.” “That won’t work.” +2
“That’s a great strategy.” +0
“Do you intend to lose?” +0
“I don’t want to turn my back on shogi… a game that both my father and I love…” “Let’s make her reconsider.” +0
“Let’s do something about it.” +0
“I highly doubt she would ever reconsider…” “What’s your mother’s name?” +0
“Tell me her name.” +0

After this interaction, you have to complete the “Upstaging the Stage Mother” request.

Upon completion, visit Hifumi again on her available days to rank up the social link.

“Perhaps they eavesdropped on our conversation?” “Maybe…” +2
“You’re overthinking it.” +0
“I’m glad her heart changed.” +3
“…I’m not going to lose.” “Lose what?” +0
“What’re you talking about?” +0
Phonecall: “I was just a little curious about your thoughts. Regarding my decision to reveal my fixed matches, that is.” “I support it.” +2
“You should really rethink this.” +0
“It’s certainly admirable…” +0

Rank 9

If you were hoping to romance Hifumi, then this is finally the rank to do so. After her match ends, you will get the option to either enter into a romantic relationship with her or continue being friends.

Do remember that if you are already in a relationship with someone, then entering into another relationship can have some consequences for Joker.

“However, I’m not going to give them the satisfaction. I’m going to win… with these very hands.” “Give it all you got.” +2
“Do you feel confident?” +0
“You can do it.” +0
“I was so ashamed of myself. I didn’t want to hurt the pieces any longer…” “It was a good effort.” +0
“You’ll win next time.” +0
“A very queenly decision.” +3
“…So this is goodbye.” “I want to become stronger.” +0 (Will end the conversation)
“I want to stay by your side.” +0 (Proceed to the romance path)
“What do you mean by that…?” “I want us to date.” (Romance path)
“We’ll be friends forever.” (Revert to friendship path)
Phonecall: “That’s why I can say with certainty. Today’s loss was not a setback, but a glorious step forward.” (Friendship path exclusive dialogue) “That’s a great way to see it.” +2
“You’re overthinking it.” +2
“Let’s win the next one.” +2
Phonecall: “But I had you… and through our mutual revelations, I was saved. So thank you.” (Romance path exclusive dialogue) “Anything for you.” +2
“It was all a big coincidence.” +2
“It was love at first sight.” +2

Rank 10

As you’ve reached the ultimate ranking with Hifumi, your bond is now inviolable, and additional affection points are unnecessary. Consequently, feel free to choose any dialogue that suits you best.

Achieving rank 10 will grant you the ability to fuse Lucifer, the most powerful persona belonging to the Star archetype.

“I quit the Ladies Professional Shogi Players’ Association. I need to start over as an amateur.” “That’s rough.” +3
“You’ll triumph in the end.” +3
“Just don’t lose.” +3
“This time, I’ll earn everyone’s praise… with my own skills!” “I believe in you.” (Friendship path exclusive dialogue) +0
“I’ll be with you.” (Friendship path exclusive dialogue) +0
“You can do it.” (Relationship path exclusive dialogue) +0
“That’s reassuring.” (Relationship path exclusive dialogue) +0
“That the Phantom Thieves find my lessons useful.” “So you know.” +0
“What do you mean?” +0
“We do.” +0
“If there’s anything I can do to help, please know that you can rely on me.” “Thank you.” +0
“That’s reassuring.” +0
“……” (Romance path exclusive dialogue) “What’s wrong?” +0
“Are you nervous?” +0

Special Interactions With Hifumi

Aside from simple rank-up hangouts, you are also given optional interactions that you can utilize to gain some extra affection points.

You have the option to engage in casual interactions with characters that are not related to your current rank, and these encounters will reward you with extra affection points. These bonus interactions award +3 points each, enabling you to make a choice based on your preference. This can help you progress to the next rank when you don’t have enough points to do so otherwise.

If you choose to court Hifumi, you will enjoy exclusive dates with her not only on Valentine’s Day but also on White Day, which takes place on February 14th and March 13th respectively.

You also have the option of spending time with her during your Hawaii trip, and another special interaction awaits you at Akihabara, both of which are explained in more detail below.

Hawaii Interaction

The Hawaii event is only available if you reach rank 5 of Hifumi’s confidant before your trip begins on 9/6.

If you’re running low on affection points to advance to the next rank, this is an excellent alternative way of earning some additional points instead of spending a whole day at a non-ranking gathering.

“Perhaps I should go change.” “It is the beach, after all.” +2
“You look great!” +3
“It’s a bit of an eyesore.” +0
“Shrimp are symbolic of living a long life. Shall we have some?” “Yeah, I’d like to try some.” +3
“You think they taste good?” +3
“I’d rather have crab.” +3
“We would’ve had a more enjoyable time if I had made better conversation…” “You’re fine the way you are.” +3
“I had fun.” +3
“Was it boring for you?” +0
“If only we went to the same school…” “Let’s play a match soon.” +3
“We’ll see each other again.” +3
“… Sun is about to set. We should start heading back…” “Just a little longer.” +0
“We’re fine like this.” +0

Akihabara Interaction

Prerequisite: This event is only available if you have started the Yusuke’s (Emperor) confidant and Chihaya (Fortune) confidant as well.

The event commences on September 22nd, and during this time, you’ll have the chance to earn ‘affection points’ with both Yusuke and Chihaya in their confidant arcs, alongside Hifumi.

In the previous conversation, you may choose any of the three characters to increase your affection level with them.

“I’m sorry I’m holding us up.” “Take your time.” +3
“Go with your gut.” +0
“Why not both?” +2
Yusuke: “Thus, the clear solution was to find a place of more comfort, so that my creativity might flow once more.” “How frugal of you.” +0
“Good thinking.” +3
“Why not just strip?” +3
Yusuke: “A bit eccentric, isn’t she?” “You’re one to talk.” +0
“Kind of like you.” +2
“That’s good, right?” +3
“Fascinating. What kinds of fortunes does she tell?” “Money.” (Hifumi +3)
“Luck.” (Yusuke +3)
“She knows everything.” (Chihaya +3)

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2025-03-15 23:16