Why I love Ryan Lucan (spoilers)

[Oriqami]

Ryan Lucan. Where do I start? When I first saw the announcement for True Colors, I was so excited to romance Steph. But then, I saw Ryan in that record store. He noticed Alex feeling overwhelmed by Steph’s frustration and quietly diffused the situation with no questions asked. That simple gesture—something that went mostly unnoticed—completely stole my heart. Not to mention, Alex felt pure joy for the first time with Ryan.

Before I continue, I want to make it clear that I love both Ryan and Steph. I respect both romance routes, but I feel like people are quick to defend Steph while sweeping Ryan under the rug. So, I'm here to defend Ryan. If you really connect with Steph but aren’t open to Ryan’s perspective, just know that I’ve already seen every argument that defends Steph’s romance route.

Many people say that Ryan’s story lacks intensity or chemistry with Alex, but that’s the beauty of a slow burn. You start as acquaintances, then gradually learn and understand each other. Before you know it, their presence feels like home, and you can’t imagine life without them.

As much as I love Steph from Before the Storm, her constant flirting felt... overwhelming to me. Steph is assertive, confident, and she knows exactly what she wants—qualities that make her incredibly attractive. But with Ryan, the rugged “golden retriever” type, I feel like I can just relax. Steph has this spark of adventure, always ready to explore the world, while Alex is simply looking for a place to settle. Even if we chose to stay in Haven with Steph, I get the feeling she wouldn’t be fully satisfied and might eventually leave.

Some people argue that Ryan is flawed because he "killed" Gabe and didn’t immediately support Alex in the final scene.

On the first point, it was either Gabe who died or both Gabe and Alex. Ryan had to make an impossible choice, and we all know Gabe would have sacrificed himself to save Alex if it came to that.

On the second point, we have to remember Jed was Ryan’s dad and his role model. Ryan had a strong, healthy bond with his father, and he admired him deeply. Steph, on the other hand, has no strong ties to Haven apart from Gabe and the radio station. But for Ryan, everything he knows and loves is rooted in that town. Of course, it was hard for him to immediately accept the truth. I’ve played the game five times, and I’ve never failed to convince Ryan to believe Alex by the end.

I just feel like Ryan’s story arc is complex, whereas Steph’s is more straightforward. It’s a shame that everyone flocked to romance Steph without fully understanding the depth Ryan brings. He loved that town and was ready to give it all up for Alex if she chose to leave. I love Steph, but I prefer a slow and steady connection—something that feels secure, unforced. I could talk for hours about why I love Ryan, but I believe these points cover the basics for now.

So, if anyone tries to push the “Alex and Steph are canon” narrative, I’ll agree, because that means Ryan and I are canon.

[EmzRed]

This is a lovely explanation for how you feel about the story arc of Alex and Ryan. I totally get all of your points on the bond, the chemistry they have, they are totally valid and it all makes sense👍✌️

[rmsgrey]

Ryan represents safety, security, and stability - things Alex hasn't had much of in her life.

Steph is excitement, unpredictability, and adventure - also things Alex hasn't had that much experience with (at least not as positive elements).

There are reasons why I regard the ending choice as being between staying in Haven Springs with Ryan or leaving with Steph. Both are valid options for Alex, each offering her the chance to explore a different side of herself.

[jillsandwich]

Come on, man. We're talking about a nerdy punk here
Ain't that awesome?

[Dupmeister]

I admit, the intro to Ryan, where he seeing you reacting to Steph without fully understanding what is going on, and yet he helps you with no questions asked, it was an excellent way to establish the quality of his character from the start. Really shows you what kind of person he is.