Obvious Shenmue One and Two spoilers.
A lot of people seem to be annoyed that Ryo never makes any kind of advances on Nozomi but I've been thinking. From my obsession with Japanese language and Japanese Culture I've learned that Public Displays of affection are not particularly common in Japan and that many people share their first kiss well after 18 years of age. (I also read a recent survey that seemed to indicate this)
What has this to do with anything?
Well, I have always considered Shenmue to authentic in realism in regards to Japan, as especially considering the time frame it takes place in and how it can be compared to other games that share a similar setting. I think that Ryo's stance on love is much like his frustratingly limited social skills (in regards to gaijin) I can understand how foreigners can be annoyed at how Ryo seems to only be able to say "I see" or "is that so?" at times. But in a Japanese mind frame, I find this to be completely normal. (From what I've gathered from my obsession anyway)
For this reason I find Ryo's reaction to Nozomi's confession, given his frustrations at the time to be quite realistic.
I also feel that Ryo share these same sensibilities when it comes to Joy. He doesn't understand the social constructs in Hong Kong and is either oblivious or very reserved towards the obvious hints that she tries to give him because it's just not common to show public displays of affection where he grew up, kissing and holding hands are both rare, especially in the 80s.
I may be wrong about all this but from what I've learned it seems to make sense the way Ryo acts and just adds to the authenticity that I so love about the game. I feel like if I were in Japan in the 80's and walking down Dobuita, I'd feel exactly how I do while playing the game.
In conclusion, I appreciate Ryo's lack of balls.
Japanese people, correct me if I'm wrong about any of this.