Ryou Fujibayashi features in the crossover series Kaginado as a reinterpretation of her Clannad persona, with her personality exaggerated significantly for comedic purposes. This incarnation embodies cynicism and bitterness, acutely conscious of her lower popularity relative to other Key franchise heroines. She openly resents her sister Kyou, believing Kyou stole romantic chances and eclipsed her in narrative significance and fan recognition.
Ryou consistently exhibits a dark, snarky demeanor, especially when reminded of her status as the "lesser Fujibayashi sister." This self-awareness includes acknowledging her fanbase reputation as a "Memetic Loser." Her portrayal satirizes her original Clannad anime role as a satellite character who received minimal narrative attention compared to other heroines. The absence of her visual novel romance with Kappei Hiiragi in Kaginado further underscores her perceived insignificance in the crossover.
Kaginado weaponizes her Clannad unpopularity and unrequited feelings as humor foundations. Her amplified bitterness and recurring complaints about neglect—particularly by Kyou—evolve into running gags. This reinterpretation unexpectedly boosted her popularity among some viewers within the Kaginado context. Fans coined the term "Dark Ryou" to capture this specific version, marking her evolution from a gentle supporter to a figure defined by sardonic remarks and lingering resentment. Her interactions frequently deliver meta-commentary on her original secondary treatment, emphasizing frustration with her peripheral narrative existence.