Kise Yayoi from Smile Precure's a MASSIVE toku fan, so let's have her crossover with a toku hero! Even if she can only crossover with one, how about we take one toku hero who can let her crossover with even more, given form changes that turn him into past heroes! Cure Peace is getting to help out Kamen Rider Decade today, yay! And look at how delighted she is about that Ridebooker she gets to borrow! Don't worry about Decade, he's stolen borrowed the RideHeisaber for this circumstance.
That belt, too! Neo Decade instead? That's 20 different Riders in one, she's going to love this teamup! Someone let Peace get some autographs from this man!
The Return of Lowder Reviews: Kamen Rider Decade Part 2: End of a Decade
More Decade equals more fun for me. Also, during the making of this review, I have now graduated highschool.
Warning: These are my opinions and you and I can disagree and agree on some things.
The Neverending Journey ~Dai-Shocker's Debut~ Arc: 20-31, World of Televikun, All Riders vs. Dai-Shocker, and Movie War 2010
Episode 20: "The Nega-World's Dark Riders"
Synopsis
With their tour of the nine Kamen Rider Worlds complete, the Hikari Studio group returns to their home world, finding it as it was before the monsters appeared. Tsukasa is the only one who feels something is not right and questions the reason for the journey. Before Yusuke or Natsumi can attempt to answer, they encounter the violinist Otoya Kurenai, who thanks them for saving the world and tells Tsukasa that he earned a world of his own for his journey. As Natsumi goes out to see her TG Club friends and teacher for a high school reunion, Tsukasa and Yusuke have a short encounter with Narutaki who congratulates him on getting his own world. Later, Tsukasa becomes the ten-thousandth customer in a restaurant and wins both a free meal as well as a vast fortune. Tsukasa enjoys the upper class lifestyle until he takes his leave during an arranged marriage meeting. Yusuke is forced to take his place, but he runs off upon realizing that the women are actually monsters in disguise. Elsewhere, while hanging out with her TG Club friends, Natsumi tries to figure out where her friend Chinatsu is, and the TG Club members take the opportunity to run off, with the teacher attacking a couple as Alternative. Tsukasa runs into Otoya who mentions a treasure before transforming into Dark Kiva and challenging him, along with the other members of the TG Club who become Ryuga, Dark Kabuto, and Orga. With Diend arriving to back him up for this treasure, Decade battles Dark Kiva. When Decade attempts to use his Final Attack Ride against Dark Kiva, the attack suddently cancels as he falls and reverts back to human. As the dark Riders leave, Tsukasa realizes that all of his Rider cards have turned black. Elsewhere, Natsumi is still searching for Chinatsu when she passes by someone in dirty and ragged clothing who turns out to be another Natsumi.
Thoughts
Another great episode and a good way to give some backstory to Natsumi. It's kinda of nice our cast relax for once after all of the journeying. While it is obvious who the dark Riders, I like that they still hide that this world has many enemies within the preview and other things.
Rating: 8/10: Another great and fun episode.
Episode 21: "The Walking All-Rider Album"
Synopsis
After Tsukasa suddenly loses his powers, he learns from Kaito that he is actually in the World of Negatives. He later is seen by a talent agent and is offered to be signed onto his agency to become an idol. Although Yusuke acts as the voice of reason, he gets caught up in the fame seeking as well. Meanwhile, after her school friends return while waiting for Chinatsu, Natsumi that suggests that they should dig up the "treasure" they buried together, only to find that a parking lot was built over it and learning that Chinatsu moved their treasure prior. Once, Tsukasa finds Natsumi, he attempts to tell her that they are not in the real world, but Natsumi refuses to accept this as she runs off to the TG Club's hideout where she also meets the World of Negatives's Natsumi. Confirming that Tsukasa is right and revealing that the world is a heaven for monsters with only a few survivors left in hiding. Furthermore, the Dark Riders had murdered the real TG Club members' Negative counterparts and assumed the males' identities with the other Natsumi the only survivor. It is then that the Dark Riders arrive to further prove the other Natsumi's words as they force her to dig up the Dark Riders' treasure she buried: the K-Touch. Otoya is prepared to give it to Tsukasa so he can become the Ultimate Rider until Diend intervenes by attacking the Dark Riders. Though Otoya offers him the world on a silver platter, Tsukasa refuses and he regains his powers. Using the K-Touch, Tsukasa transforms into Decade Complete Form, destroying Ryuga, Orga and Dark Kabuto with the powers of Ryuki Survive, Faiz Blaster Form, and Kabuto Hyper Form, respectively, as Otoya escapes destruction. After the other Natsumi bids farewell to her counterpart and Tsukasa, to whom she gives the K-Touch, the group returns to the Hikari Studio to resume their journey home with their next stop being Daiki Kaito's home world.
Thoughts
Second half of this arc and debuts our final form, Complete Decade, and while its design is a bit weird, its powers are fun as Tsukasa can now summon Riders and it shows how powerful it is by easily killing three Dark Riders. We also learn more about Natsumi's past which is nice. Overall, the World of Negatives arc was fun and had a strong debut for a final form as of now.
Rating: 9/10: Another great episode and a great debut for a final form.
Episode 22: "Wanted: Diend"
Synopsis
Arriving in Kaito's homeworld, the World of Diend, Tsukasa finds the world in peace and harmony, but with Kaito a wanted man. As Tsukasa assumes the role of a traveling salesman, he meets Kamen Riders Larc & Lance as they battle a Darkroachi. After destroying the monster, Tsukasa learns that the world's residents kill Kamen Riders. As Tsukasa and company meet the head of area management committee, Junichi Kaito, Larc and Lance battle the Darkroachi until they receive aid from Diend. Saving them from reinforcements, Tsukasa learns from Haruka and Shin that the world is ruled by the mysterious Fourteen who uses his Roaches to manipulate humans. Cornered by the Bossroach and his Darkroachi, the Kamen Riders battle the Roaches before Lance goes after Diend. While this occurs, Yusuke is kidnapped by the Roaches to be conditioned into being a normal member of the World of Diend's society.
Thoughts
Another good episode and helps give some backstory to Daiki as we visit his world. Another unique world as the Kamen Riders are on the back foot thanks to the Roaches brainwashing. Just like the world of Negatives, it seems kind at first, but in reality, is a trap and a lot more dangerous. A nice concept that's used well enough.
Rating: 8/10: Good episode that gives some backstory to Daiki.
Episode 23: "End of Diend"
Synopsis
Nearly killed by Lance, Kaito is spared when Larc stops her partner as he reminds her that he is the reason that Junichi is under Fourteen's control. After escaping the angry mob, parting from Haruka and Shin, Kaito and Tsukasa find Natsumi who tells them that Yusuke has been kidnapped by the Roaches before Junichi arrives. After remembering the events leading to his brother's enslavement, Kaito is reluctant to fight as he and Tsukasa transform to follow Junichi, leaving the brain-washed Yusuke behind and taking Natsumi to undergo the process as well. The next day, finding himself a wanted man as well, Tsukasa decides to help Kaito in spite of him refusing his aid at first. Using Kaito as bait to trade for the now brain-washed Natsumi, Tsukasa lures out Fourteen. While Lance and Larc battle Glaive and the Darkroachi, Diend and Decade battle Fourteen as he reveals his true form as Jashin 14. Though overwhelmed, Decade assumes Complete Form and uses Armed Hibiki's power to destroy him. Though the Roaches fade away and the brainwashed humans return to normal, Glaive attacks Diend and reveals that he willingly served Fourteen. With Decade holding Larc and Lance back, Diend battles Glaive on his own in a heated battle with neither wanting to kill the other. Tsukasa ends the battle, telling the brothers that Daiki now has faith in himself. Junichi leaves and Tsukasa and Kaito go off to the next world, a strange one that Narutaki hopes will overwhelm Decade.
Thoughts
Another good episode that continues to give more backstory to Daiki. Learning more about Daiki's backstory helped flesh him out a bit considering he really didn't have a lot going for him when it came to backstory. Overall, this arc really helped expand Daiki's backstory and give him a reason for why he fights.
Rating: 8/10: Great episode that expands Daiki's backstory.
Episode 24: "The Arrival of the Samurai Sentai"
Synopsis
Arriving in the new world with a strange card in hand, Tsukasa finds himself in the costume of a Kuroko before running into Daiki who just stole a squid-like artifact. Daiki mentions that this world is not like the other A.R. Worlds before running off prior to the appearance of mysterious red fish-like monsters. Tsukasa is about to transform before several other Kuroko show up along with five young men and women who transform into the Shinkengers to fight drive them back into the Sanzu River. Yusuke and Natsumi return to the Hikari Studio after losing sight of Tsukasa, with Natsumi worried about not being in an A.R. World. Tsukasa, however, is at the Shiba Clan household, listening in on a discussion between Takeru Shiba and his caretaker, Hikoma Kusakabe, over the latter's need to go to the hospital. Elsewhere, sushiman Genta Umemori catches up to Daiki, ready to fight him for stealing the Ika Origami. Both transform, and Diend summons both Kamen Riders Scissors and Raia to fight Shinken Gold. Unbeknownst to them, Shitari sends the Ayakashi Chinomanako to investigate Diend out of dread of his appearance. Chinomanako arrives just as Shinken Gold takes out the summoned riders and steals the Diendriver from Daiki, knocking out Shinken Gold in the process. Chased by the Ayakashi, Daiki makes his way to Tsukasa who laughs at the irony of a thief being thieved before using Den-O's power as Decade to fight Chinomanako. The Ayakashi escapes at the last minute, and is suddenly compelled to use the Diendriver, inserting the Diend Kamen Ride Card and shooting it above him. Transformed into a monstrous version of Kamen Rider Diend, Chinomanako summons a mass of Nanashi to attack the mortal realm to Narutaki's horror of the newly born abomination.
Thoughts
First part of the Shinkenger crossover and boy is it fun. The Shinkengers especially Takeru are cool to see and I like seeing the focus on Takeru. Genta is there with his plot of trying to get Ika Origami from Daiki and it's fun enough. Let's see how the next two parts do to continue.
Rating: 8/10: Fun start to our first real Sentai crossover.
Act 21: "The Father and Son Bears"
Synopsis
The Shinkengers battle a group of Nanashi Company with no accompanying Ayakashi sent out by a strange warrior. Because the attack seems so random, Takeru is concerned and has the Shinkengers search the area. An unusual Kuroko
lifts his veil as the Shinkengers leave the scene.
After searching and not finding anything, Chiaki talks Mako into not returning to the mansion to train. Instead, they go into a family restaurant where they talk about Jii's hip until they run into Chiaki's father, Kurando. When another patron of the restaurant takes a woman as his hostage, Chiaki manages to get everyone out with him but Mako, Kurando, and a mother with her baby. Finding similar humans, Chiaki attempts to stop them as he realizes they all have red eggs on their heads. While the others deal with the Ayakashi Sasamatage who is to blame, Chiaki and Mako manage to set up a plan to free everyone while Kurando fights some Nanashi Company members by himself. By the time they arrive, the other Shinkengers successfully destroy Sasamatage who revives in his giant form. The group uses Tenku ShinkenOh to fight Sasamatage with Shinken Gold arriving in Daikaioh to quickly destroy the Ayakashi as a mysterious woman witnesses the battle.
After the fight, Takeru encounters a strange man who warns him of that his world is endangered by the presence of a person known as Decade. He later crosses paths with the Kuroko from earlier who reveals his true identity.
Thoughts
Part 2 of the Shinkenger arc and this a fun episode and my first episode of Super Sentai. The characters are good in this episode coming from someone who never watched Shinkenger. The fights were good and it tied nicely into Decade while not having them in the forefront.
Rating: 8/10: Fun episode and my first episode of Super Sentai.
Episode 25: "Heretic Rider, Go Forth!"
Synopsis
After Tsukasa reveals himself, Takeru realizes that Tsukasa is the "Decade" Narutaki warned him about. Before the two can fight, Narutaki arrives to tell Tsukasa he is to blame for the terror brought unto the world by the Ayakashi Chinomanako who now has the powers of Diend, and that the only way to save the worlds he entered is if he ceases to exist. After Takeru takes out the Nanashi and drives off Chinomanako as Shinken Red, Genta attacks Tsukasa believing that he is in league with Daiki until Natsumi takes him to the Hikari Studio, where Hikoma Kusakabe is hiding. When the other Shinkengers arrive, Daiki uses their fears to cause a fight to break out and escapes with Genta not far behind, leaving Natsumi to break it up before going to a room where all of Tsukasa's photos are kept. When Chinomanako attacks again, Genta ends his chase and contacts the Shinkengers who go off to fight the Ayakashi Rakider alone. Tsukasa, troubled by Narutaki's words, stays behind with Yusuke trying to convince him to help before he goes off on his own. By then, Hikoma comes forward and convinces Tsukasa to continue to find his place, regardless of what Narutaki has said to him. Tsukasa joins the battle just as Chinomanako and his summoned Eagle Undead and Moose Fangire have overpowered the Shinkengers and Kuuga. Decade and Shinken Red fight Chinomanako, who has summoned Kamen Rider Blade to fight with him. The other Shinkengers and Kuuga manage to destroy the Eagle Undead and Moose Fangire as Decade becomes Complete Form and uses the powers of Blade King Form to attack Chinomanako. Using the Blade Final Form Ride Card, he transforms Chinomanako's Blade into the Blade Blade before switching weapons with Shinken Red to use active Rekka Daizantou Attack Ride Card to destroy Chinomanako, saving the world. Daiki shows up just in time to snatch the Diendriver back, only to be thwarted by Shinken Gold who forces him to give back the Ika Origami in exchange for the Diendriver, and then everyone goes their separate ways. As Tsukasa and Yusuke are welcomed home by Eijiro and Natsumi, assuring Tsukasa that the photo studio is his home no matter what, they enter a new A.R. World.
Thoughts
Part 3 of the Sentai crossover and I think this might be my favorite episode and probably my favorite arc. The characters are probably at their best here. The Shinkengers are fun and I like their interactions with the Decade cast. The villain is actually unique as it's a Kaijin from Sentai using a Rider's powers to fight. Overall, I think this arc may be my favorite of Decade.
Rating: 10/10: My favorite episode of Decade.
Episode 26: "RX! Dai-Shocker Attack"
Synopsis
Tsukasa finds himself wearing strange clothes (referred by Yusuke as Showa-like clothes) with another strange card as he, Natsumi, and Yusuke find themselves attacked by the Strange Demon Robot Shvarian and his Chaps as Kamen Rider Black RX battles them, with both sides believing Tsukasa to be Joe the Haze. When the Seamoon Fangire and Scorpion Imagin suddenly appear, Tsukasa becomes Decade to help RX out against the monsters with Agito's power as Shvarian runs off. After Natsumi stops RX from attacking Decade, RX takes her words to heart and sees Tsukasa as an ally. From there, he introduces himself as Kotaro Minami and says that has been fighting the Crisis Empire. Everyone is confused at the sudden appearance of Imagin and Fangires in this A.R. World with Tsukasa reluctant to fight, once more. While Tsukasa takes pictures, after Natsumi offers him to embrace her world as his home, they confront a man named Guy who is behind the attacks. Introducing himself as Dai-Shocker's Apollogeist, he knocks the Decadriver out of Tsukasa's hand as Natsumi takes an attack meant for him as the villain and his attendants leave. Natsumi is hospitalized beyond medical aid and Tsukasa is upset by Narutaki telling him that he is a danger to himself and those around him. Daiki visits Tsukasa and Natsumi, telling Tsukasa about Apollogeist being from the World of X-Rider and possessing the Perfecter, which is the key to returning Natsumi to normal. Tsukasa goes off to confront Apollogeist on his own, not wanting anyone else to get hurt, finding Shvarian as Apollogeist attacks him for refusing to deleiver his offer to Grand Lord Crisis to join Dai-Shocker. With RX's support, Decade battles Apollogeist before Diend interferes with his own Riders to steal the Perfecter. When Apollogeist summons the Rhino Mutant, he convinces Shvarian to accept his offer of joining his group as Decade assumes Complete Form to use Kabuto Hyper Form's power to take out the summoned Riders. Apollogeist escapes into another dimension with Decade in pursuit as RX holds off the monsters. Arriving at the other end, Decade finds Kotaro Minami who transforms into Kamen Rider Black to attack him.
Thoughts
First Showa era tribute and another good episode. This episode introduces Dai-Shocker and Apollogeist, and I already like him more as a villain compared to Narutaki. This episode has great character moments like Tsukasa caring for Natsumi when he sees that she can potentially die if he's too late, and tries to his best to save her.
Rating: 8/10: Good episoe with great character moments.
Episode 27: "Black × Black RX"
Synopsis
Following Apollogeist into another A.R. World, Decade is attacked by Kamen Rider Black until Diend arrives and summons Femme to hold him off. The next day, after learning that he is in the World of Black and seeing that he is on his own in saving Natsumi, Decade ambushes Guy as Ryuki and fights him until he uses a little girl as his hostage. When Decade takes a hit from Diend to save the child, Black watches and has second thoughts about him as Apollogeist escapes. After explaining that Apollogeist came to the world before and recruited the cult Gorgom into Dai-Shocker, Kotaro reveals that Joe the Haze ended up in his world and has been helping him fend off Dai-Shocker's endless army. Shvarian arrives and sends the Scorpion Imagin and Mantis Fangire after Decade and Black. Using Faiz's power, Decade destroys the two monsters as Shvarian summons the Chaps, allowing Tsukasa to make it back to World of Black RX as Apollogeist summons a pack of Orphnoch and Worms. The numbers even out as Daiki arrives and use Decade's card to summon the World of Black's Kotaro. With Black and Black RX fighting with them, Decade and Diend battle the monsters as Decade assumes Complete Form and uses Agito Shining Form's power to destroy Shvarian. After getting the Perfecter from Apollogeist, Diend steals it as Yusuke arrives to tell Tsukasa that Natsumi is about to die. Once there, Daiki shows up to give the Perfecter to Tsukasa, who uses a bit of his life force to revive Natsumi and bring her back to life. Black and Black RX continue their battle Apollogeist until he is escapes into another A.R. World with Narutaki comments that Decade is to blame for Dai-Shocker. After checking up on Kotaro and telling him that Joe is aiding his other self, Tsukasa returns to the Hikari Studio where he and his friends venture into the next world.
Thoughts
Second half of the tribute and another good episode. Character moments are good as always like Tsukasa sacrificing part of his life to save Natsumi. Seeing Black and Black RX fight was cool. Daiki's a bit of an asshole for stealing the Perfecter that could give Natsumi her life back but he did give it back in the end though, so all's well.
Rating: 8/10: Good episode with more great character moments.
Episode 28: "Amazon, Friend"
Synopsis
Arriving in a new A.R. World, finding himself in a baseball uniform, Tsukasa notices the people are acting strangely while saluting each other before he, Natsumi and Yusuke are singled out as rebels against Dai-Shocker with Propheta Cruentis, Go·Jalaji·Da, and Camponotus Worm Maxilla appearing to exterminate them. Amazon arrives at their aid, fighting the monsters with Decade backing him up as the people back up the surviving monsters under a boy named Masahiko. After briefly escaping them, they encounter Daiki who and reveals that Dai-Shocker is controlling this world with the Jyumenki of Gedon as its ruler. Evading the military police, Tsukasa and company find Masahiko being attacked by Dai-Shocker Combatmen as Amazon and Yusuke come to his aid. Getting Amazon's trust, in spite of Tsukasa's feelings about the boy's sudden change of heart, Masahiko is brought to the Hikari Studio as he contacts Dai-Shocker to their location, with the Jyumenki Yum Cimil appearing with Apollogeist and monsters. While Decade battles Apollogeist, Kuuga and Amazon deal with the monsters until Yum Cimil joins the fray, overpowering the riders single-handedly. Taking advantage, Apollogeist attempts to kill Decade, only for Decade to dodge it with Amazon protecting Masahiko from the stray shot as the boy takes the GiGi Armlet from him.
Thoughts
Another tribute and an average episode coming from someone who watched Amazon as their first Rider series. Everything works well enough and it serves as a nice way to establish how far reaching Dai-Shocker is with how much control they have over the populace. Like the little references to the original Amazon though.
Rating: 7/10: Average episode.
Episode 29: "The Strong, Naked, Strong Guy"
Synopsis
Evading Apollogeist and Yum Cimil with Diend's attempt to get the GaGa Armlet, Tsukasa has his wounds tended to by Natsumi in Dai-Shocker's school before Yusuke and a weakened Amazon join them, revealing that Masahiko took the GiGi Armlet as Ritsuko arrives and calls in the Dai-Shocker Combatmen after them despite Tsukasa questioning her faith in Dai-Shocker. Later after finding the Hikari Photo Studios in ruins, Amazon ponders if he should join them. The gang meets Daiki as he reveals that Masahiko delivered the GiGi Armlet to Yum Cimil who awarded the boy to be the first to be subjected to Dai-Shocker's monster conversion plan. After being saved and telling his sister that Dai-Shocker are not the good guys, and learning that Amazon's leaving because of him, Masahiko runs off to get the GiGi Armlet as Decade battles Yum Cimil. Regaining the GiGi Armlet, Amazon assumes his Rider form and helps Decade in driving off Apollogeist as Diend manages to take the GaGa Armlet from Yum Cimil. However, Decade Complete Form gets the GaGa Armlet through an Attack Ride Card and knocks Yum Cimil down with Faiz Blaster Form's power and Diend before giving the armlet to Amazon to destroy the Jyumenki. As Amazon finally finds a home with Masahiko and Ritsuko, Tsukasa and company get a new member on their team in Daiki as they end up in the A.R. World from Natsumi's dream: the site of the Rider War.
Thoughts
Second half of the tribute and it's average as well. It had nice character moments and those moments are good but has been done better in previous episodes. Amazon and Masahiko's friendship is nice and reminds me of their friendship in the original Amazon. Kind of sad that the Amazon tribute arc was my least favorite one. Also, set up for All Riders vs Dai-Shocker.
Rating: 7/10: Average episode and ending to my least favorite arc.
Movie: "Kamen Rider Decade The Movie: All Riders vs. Dai-Shocker"
Synopsis
The Hikari Studio arrives in a new A.R. World where, after seeing that Tsukasa's photos of this world are coming out perfectly, Natsumi realizes they may be in Tsukasa's home world: the World of Decade. Finding a mansion depicted on the backdrop that took them here, Tsukasa and company enter and meet a girl named Sayo, who identifies Tsukasa as her older brother. Tsukasa still cannot remember as Sayo's caretaker Nobuhiko Tsukikage arrives to tell that Tsukasa's arrival has distorted the world and this can only be fixed by the strongest Kamen Rider existing in this world. After his memories return, Tsukasa orders Nobuhiko to summon every Rider for a tournament to determine the strongest one. After numerous matches, it comes down to a 6-man tag team match between the team of Decade, Kuuga, and Diend vs. V3, BLACK, and Super-1. Upon victory, Tsukasa and company end up into a giant castle with Yusuke and Natsumi finding themselves in the throne room surrounded by monsters as Eijiro appears, only to reveal himself as Dr. Shinigami as Yusuke and Natsumi learn that they are in Dai-Shocker's base of operations as the organization welcomes Tsukasa's return as Dai-Shocker's leader.
Ending up in the dungeon, Natsumi and Yusuke are ejected into the sewers while coping with these shocking revelations. Arriving to the Kadoya mansion, only to learn that Nobuhiko and Sayo are with Dai-Shocker as well. With Nobuhiko as Shadow Moon and Sayo uses the powers she has from the Stone of the Earth to attack Yusuke, unleashing the greatest and most dangerous of Kuuga's powers within him. Yusuke tells Natsumi to run away before the powers are unleashed. Nobuhiko and Sayo then approach Tsukasa, who reveal their plans to overthrow him.
Sayo tells Tsukasa that she cannot forgive him for abandoning her and has now become High Priestess Bishum. Nobuhiko attacks Tsukasa with the Satansaber and drops him into the sewers, where he is attacked by Yusuke as Kuuga Rising Ultimate, under the control of Sayo. Though Tsukasa escapes, Nobuhiko orders an attack on the city to eliminate all of Dai-Shocker's enemies. Tsukasa goes to the Hikari Studio to try to reconcile with Natsumi, who can no longer trust him knowing that he was the leader of Dai-Shocker. Tsukasa pleads with her as the Hikari Studio is now his only home, but Natsumi still refuses, as she is now alone in the world.
Later, Natsumi finds herself in the middle of Dai-Shocker's attack on the city when Narutaki comes to save her. They run off and are then saved by Daiki who had disguised himself as one of the attacking Shocker Combatmen. Narutaki tells Daiki that the only way to possibly save the world is to gather the rest of the Kamen Riders. Elsewhere, with no one to turn to, Tsukasa is confronted by Jōji Yūki who attempts to get revenge on him for having lost his arm while working for Dai-Shocker. He is about to finish Tsukasa off until he realizes that Tsukasa has changed and that he is now Dai-Shocker's target. Yūki pulls off his arm, revealing its robotic replacement and allows Tsukasa to escape as he prepares his transformation into Riderman.
Back with Natsumi and Narutaki, Diend has summoned Ohja and KickHopper to help them fight Dai-Shocker, but the two Riders decide that they would rather side with Dai-Shocker instead. Diend summons Raia, Gai, and PunchHopper to deal with their new enemies before they are attacked by the evil Kamen Riders. But they are ambushed by a Dai-Shocker platoon under General Jark as Tsukasa arrives, now intent on fighting Dai-Shocker and saving his friends. With Diend's aid, Decade drives off the monsters as Jark is destroyed by Diend.
Making their way to Dai-Shocker's castle, Tsukasa, Natsumi and Daiki are confronted by the entire Dai-Shocker army led by Dr. Shinigami and Jigoku Taishi as Ika Devil and Garagaranda. Things seem bleak until all of the other Riders arrive. After Garagaranda and Ika Devil are destroyed, Kamen Rider Kuuga Rising Ultimate, being controlled by the Stone of the Earth, arrives to kill Decade. Upon realizing that he is actually talking to his sister, Tsukasa makes Sayo realize that Shadow Moon is only using her as a pawn in an attempt to further his goals. After hearing this, Sayo realizes that she was fighting for the wrong side all along, and destroys the Stone of the Earth, freeing Yusuke of her control.
Together, Tsukasa and Yusuke (in their respective Rider forms) put up a valiant fight against Shadow Moon, but both are ultimately overpowered. Just as Shadow Moon is about to land the deathblow, however, a strange green-and-purple Kamen Rider rides in, with Tsukasa, Yusuke, and Shadow Moon glancing at opposite sides. Introducing himself as Kamen Rider Double, he easily takes care of Shadow Moon before taking his leave. All of the other Riders join Decade in an All Rider Kick, destroying Shadow Moon and the Dai-Shocker castle. This inadvertently awakens Kingdark as Diend arrives with Kamen Rider J. Using the Decadriver Final FormRide card, he turns Decade into the Jumbo Decadriver which then turns J into Decade Complete Form Jumbo Formation. After a brief exchange, Decade utilizes the Final KamenAttackForm RIde: Final Dimension Kick finisher to finally destroy Kingdark once and for all, ending yet another Dai-Shocker takeover of Earth. After parting ways with the Riders, and making amends with Sayo, Tsukasa, with a smile on his face, decides to continue his journey within the Hikari Studio, his true home, where Eijiro appears as if nothing had happened. At the Kadoya's penthouse, Sayo cheerfully runs downstairs and heads toward the door, ready for her first-ever journey in the outside world.
Thoughts
This film is good. Characters are good and everyone shockingly has something to do. Getting backstory on Tsukasa is good and explains a lot about how he ended up in Natsumi's world. The moments between Tsukasa and Natsumi are good like the talk during the storm. Nobuhiko serves as a nice main villain and he actually feels threatening. My biggest issues with the film are its pacing as things are either too slow or too fast, and I kind of wished there was a middle ground. Some ideas feel rushed and like they were added in last minute that AR Riderman played by Gackt. The fights are good with the final battle being my favorite. The director's cut adds some scenes but they didn't really do a lot. Overall, a good film with a lot going for it but kind of rushed in some places.
Rating: 8/10: Good film but kind of rushed in some places.
Episode 30: "Rider War: Prologue"
Synopsis
When Natsumi realizes that this is the world from her nightmares, she becomes wary for Tsukasa's well-being. Finding him in a tuxedo and feeling that this is the final chapter to their journey, they witness Wataru and Kazuma leading their respective Rider/monster groups against each other. After Rising Ixa and Leangle are killed off in the fight, Tsukasa makes his way to Wataru as he grieves over Ixa's death. Meeting the Fangire Queen Yuki, they learn from Wataru that the Riders are fighting each other to maintain the existence of their worlds. Returning to Hikari Studio after refusing to take sides, Natsumi reveals her dreams as Narutaki appears and reveals it to be the work of Apollogeist and asks Tsukasa to stop Dai-Shocker. Tsukasa and Yusuke attempt to set up peace between Wataru and Kazuma so they can stop Dai-Shocker together, but the two are too focused on protecting their worlds to listen. While this occurs, Natsumi finds the young riders of the World of Hibiki being overpowered by Saga and the Fangires until only Hibiki remains. After killing Saga with Daiki's aid, Asumu (Decade) mourns over his friends as he shows Daiki that there some treasures that should never be taken. Learning that Apollogeist is to marry Yuki, Tsukasa heads to the wedding to investigate. Coming with Garren to his aid, Blade and Decade destroy the Fangires and the Undead with Diend's help. But Guy assumes his new Super Apollogeist form and quickens the merging of the Nine Worlds into the World of the Rider War, completely eliminating the World of Blade and causing Blade and Garren to disappear. Elsewhere, another man arrives in this A.R. World, identified by Daiki as Kazuma Kenzaki, who points out Dai-Shocker is not their true enemy.
Thoughts
Second to last episode and boy is this episode intense as many things happen like the Rider War beginning and multiple characters from previous arcs returning. It's nice to Apollogeist be a genuine threat and Narutaki putting aside his differences so Tsukasa can save the many worlds is a nice bit of development. I didn't expect Kazuma to die at the near end. Special edition didn't really add anything.
Rating: 8/10: Intense episode that sets up nicely for the Rider War.
Episode 31: "The Destroyer of Worlds"
Synopsis
After fighting off the Riders, Super Apollogeist takes Natsumi to be his new bride as he flees. Kazuma Kenzaki appears, saying that Tsukasa's existence is the real cause of the worlds blending before confronting him as Kamen Rider Blade in King Form in order to force him to leave the world at once with Asumu (Decade) keeping Yusuke and Wataru from interfering as Decade is easily defeated. After returning to the Hikari Studio, Tsukasa is recuperating while learning that all of his photos are starting to vanish as a result of the worlds' fusion; Eijiro gives him hope with a photo of Natsumi and tells him not to give up. Following Kiva-la, Tsukasa is attacked by Wataru and Asumu (Decade), whom Kenzaki recruited so they can save their worlds, after he refuses to leave. Kuuga gets Tsukasa to run off so he can save Natsumi while he holds Kiva and Hibiki off, though briefly torn by his loyalties. Meanwhile, Super Apollogeist resurrects the Beetle Fangire, Paradoxa Undead, Tiger Orphnoch, Taurus Ballista, Alligator Imagin, and the Phylloxera Worm. The next day, Tsukasa finds Super Apollogeist's base as he meets Daiki who warns about the trap arranged for him. After promising the world to Daiki if he dies, Tsukasa arrives to stop Guy as he is about to consume Natsumi's life energy, fighting both Super Apollogeist and the monsters with aid from Kuuga and Diend. With Kiva and Hibiki joining the fight, the Riders take out the monsters. After Yusuke gets injured protecting him, Decade uses Diend's Final Attack Ride card to kill Super Apollogeist. With the battle over, Natsumi soon recognizes that she is in the exact place where her dream takes place as Kiva and Hibiki fade away with the Nine Worlds destroyed, with only Yusuke surviving. Tsukasa is suddenly transported to the dimension where he had spoken with Wataru Kurenai, who becomes Kamen Rider Kiva after he told Tsukasa that his true mission was to defeat the eight A.R. Heisei Riders, not befriend them. Soon, Tsukasa finds himself back in the World of the Rider War, confronted by seven of the nine other Heisei Kamen Riders, Kenzaki then stepping forward and becoming Blade King Form; Tsukasa transforms. Kiva-la then bites Yusuke to revive him, but by turning him into a black-eyed Kamen Rider Kuuga Ultimate Form. With Narutaki overseeing it, the Rider War commences as the nine Riders face Decade, lasers beginning to fire around them, and Diend suddenly runs up and fires the Diendriver at Decade at point blank range.
Thoughts
Final episode and I have some mixed opinions on it. First the negatives and I hate that it ends on a cliffhanger. Somethings felt rushed like Apollogeist's defeat, and Tsukasa being willing to destroy the other Riders. Now the positives, moments like Daiki not wanting Tsukasa to die and Tsukasa fighting wer good characterization. Overall, a mixed bag of a cliffhanger that requires a movie to watch which is shitty but it already, so what I am going to do. The special edition cuts some scenes like Yusuke revival and reuses the opening scene from the first episode which feels kind of lazy and rushed.
Rating: 6/10: A mixed bag of a final episode that ends on a cliffhanger.
Movie: "Kamen Rider x Kamen Rider W & Decade: Movie War 2010"
Synopsis
Decade: Final Chapter
Accepting his fate as the destroyer of Worlds, Tsukasa has been fighting Kamen Riders, carding the search group of Skyrider, Super-1, and Kabuto, before running into a group of Riotroopers under Yusuke. Elsewhere, Daiki Kaito visits the Hikari Studio, convincing Natsumi to destroy Tsukasa's camera and photos, as they are only bittersweet memories of what used to be. By then, Decade's fight with Kamen Rider J enters their dimension as he uses Kamen Rider G4's Gigant and the Side Basshar to card J. Confronted by the Riotroopers, a young girl named Yuriko Misaki arrives and becomes Electronic Wave Humanoid Tackle to take down the Riotroopers. She follows Tsukasa as he runs into Natsumi and Yusuke, who intends to stop Decade regardless of his injuries from the aftermath of Kamen Rider J's destruction. After explaining that he merely accepted his mission, Natsumi wants Tsukasa to remember who he was. However, Tsukasa throws his camera because he has no memories of Natsumi then fled. Natsumi feels powerless until Kiva-la arrives to remind Natsumi of Narutaki's words that only she can defeat Decade, offering her power to ensure it.
Meanwhile in another part of this A.R. World, Eijiro Hikari visits a roadside food stand waiting for his friend "Ryu" when he is served a squid and a beer by Narutaki. This triggers a lost memory, resulting in his forced transformation into Dr. Super Shinigami. With Narutaki becoming Colonel Zol, he and Super Shinigami form Super Shocker from the remaining members of Dai-Shocker as they intend to take advantage of the dwindling number of Kamen Riders with the Neonoid. Confronting Tsukasa at a warehouse, Daiki reveals that Yuriko was killed by Dai-Shocker's Wasp Woman years ago, but Yuriko refuses to accept it as Kamen Riders Ryuki and Blade arrive. Using his Final Form Ride on Blade, Decade defeats Ryuki and then Blade as Yusuke arrives. Becoming Ultimate Kuuga, he battles Decade with the intent on killing him by becoming the Ultimate Kuuga Gouram to attempt a suicide attack before being defeated. Arriving, Natsumi uses Kiva-la to transform into Kamen Rider Kiva-la to fight Decade, only to be shocked when he allows her to run him through his Decadriver. He then gives Natsumi the Rider Cards, asking her to remember them before he dies.
Daiki arrives as he and Natsumi are teleported to Wataru Kurenai, who reveals that Decade's roles as the destroyer and the connector have been fulfilled, restoring all of the A.R. Worlds, stating that their "stories" have been restored because by Decade fighting and destroying them, he created memories that allowed their stories to continue. Natsumi asks about Tsukasa, Wataru says that Decade has no story and no longer has an existence as he served his purpose. Natsumi and Daiki return to her reality and decide to try to bring Tsukasa back, only that Tsukasa never took a picture of himself. But when Natsumi remembers the photo she took of Tsukasa, they try to find his camera when Super Shocker arrives to bring Natsumi to Super Shinigami; Daiki and Yusuke hold off the Army to allow Natsumi to find the camera before being ambushed by the Wasp Woman as Tackle arrives to drive off the Inhumanoid with her risky Ultra Cyclone attack before fading away. Wounded, the Wasp Woman limps back to Super Shocker's base where she releases the Neonoid, only to be consumed by it as it creates Doras to Super Shinigami's horror.
Natsumi tries to develop the photographs, but the camera was in such bad shape that Tsukasa's face does not appear. She holds it up, passing it to Daiki and Yusuke who also refuse to forget him. This act, as well as the other Nine Worlds' Kamen Riders, restores the photo as memories of Tsukasa represented by photographs manifest and merge, bringing Tsukasa back to life. By then, Super Crisis Fortress takes off as the Tsukasa, Yusuke, Daiki, and Natsumi arrive and assume their Rider forms to take out Colonel Zol's army, forcing the villain back to his usual self. However, Doras arrives as Narutaki curses Decade for causing this new turn of events. The Nine Worlds' Kamen Riders arrive to support them, but the fight is still to Doras's advantage until Decade assumes Complete Form while having most of the Nine Riders assume their ultimate forms (Kuuga Rising Ultimate, Agito Shining Form, Ryuki Survive, Faiz Blaster Form, Blade King Form, Armed Hibiki, Kabuto Hyper Form, Den-O Super Climax Form, and Kiva Emperor Form), and together destroy Doras with an all-out attack. However, wanting to play more, the Neonoid sends out a mammoth robot to attack the Riders.
W: Begins Night
It is the holiday season and Shotaro Hidari reminisces of the first Christmas he spent with his mentor, the great Sokichi Narumi, until Akiko Narumi breaks him out of his daydream so they can decorate the office, with the Futo Irregulars helping and Philip reading as usual. However, a woman arrives, revealed to be pop star Asami Mutsuki. She has come to the Narumi Detective Office because she has been constantly haunted by the apparent ghost of her sister and pop star partner Erika who died in a boating accident a year ago. Shotaro takes the case to the Irregulars' dismay, with Philip intrigued as ghosts should not exist. The whole group investigates, with the Futo Irregulars hunting down clues in their own way, as Shotaro and Akiko visit Erika's grave and speak with the cemetery's caretaker Roberto Shijima, who Shotaro finds suspicious as he speaks of resurrection. As they leave as they get a call that Asami canceled the case, Shotaro and Akiko find Erika and pursue her before being attacked by the Death Dopant. After calling to Philip, Shotaro transforms into Kamen Rider Double to fight the Death Dopant who escapes with Double confronted by his old boss: Sokichi Narumi. Sokichi produces the Lostdriver belt and the Skull Memory, transforming into Kamen Rider Skull. Double and Skull fight, with Shotaro reluctant to fight his mentor and Philip reminding him that Sokichi should be dead as Akiko overheard it while Double is still taken down by Skull with the Skull Banisher Maximum Drive. With Shotaro reverting, Sokichi warns him not to investigate any further. After the police arrive to the Office with information, Shotaro decides to quit the detective business as well as being a Kamen Rider while Akiko insists that he stay on the case. The next day, Shotaro goes to the last known resting place of Sokichi Narumi: the island where he and Philip first met. Philip is already there, having taken the Hardsplasher, and tells Shotaro that if they are going to solve this case and find out why Sokichi is still alive, they must remember what happened on the night that he died: the Begins Night.
One year ago, Sokichi and Shotaro have infiltrated a top secret installation, seeking the "Chosen Child," whose powers were being used for evil. When the alarm sounds, Sokichi gives an attaché case to Shotaro and tells him not to move as he becomes Skull to fight off the guards as they all transform into Masquerade Dopants when the Taboo Dopant damages Sokichi's fedora in the fight. Elsewhere, Shotaro sees a young man and follows him, determining him to be the person they are after. The young man reveals that he creates the Gaia Memories via his access to the Gaia Library, and during the discussion, Shotaro drops the case revealing the Doubledriver. The young man is intrigued with its design, remarking that it to be made for the user to be able to access his power. However, after a short argument with Shotaro, he is inadvertently pushed into a transport device and is teleported into the crystalline structure of the Gaia Tower. Sokichi arrives and berates Shotaro for not listening to him, as they head upstairs to the central chamber of the Gaia Tower. Sokichi goes up to the crystal and enters the Gaia Library where he finds the young man, offering him the freedom to do as he wishes and also make amends for his part in the creation of the Gaia Memories. Learning he has no name, Sokichi christens him Philip, after his favorite fictional character. After rescuing Philip from the tower, the building's guards shoot down Sokichi. In his last breath, he asks Shotaro to finish the case and take care of Philip, giving Shotaro his now ripped fedora as well as telling him to become a man who is worthy to wear it. Shotaro feels he is at fault for his death when the Taboo Dopant arrives as he and Philip transform into Kamen Rider Double for the first time, before the floor they're on gives out and fall down several levels and the transformation ends soon after landing as Philip uses a tiny dinosaur-like robot to become the feral Kamen Rider Double FangJoker to take all the Masquerade Dopants and drive the Taboo Dopant off before picking up Shotaro's body and escaping as the building explodes.
Back in the present, after Philip tells him that only together could they atone from their respective sins, he and Shotaro resume their investigation on the Death Dopant, concluding it to be none other than Father Shijima. As they return to the main land, Akiko follows Asami to the cemetery and learns she canceled the case as the priest promised to reunite her with Erika. But learning they know his identity, Shijima attempts to lock them up in coffins along with the others he helped as Shotaro and Phillip arrive to save them. Assuming his Dopant form, Shijima disappears and Sokichi appears once more and assumes his Rider form, but Shotaro realizes that this man cannot be his old mentor due to his heartlessness. Once Kamen Rider Double defeats Skull as HeatJoker, Roberto's Dopant form is revealed to be the shape-shifting Dummy Dopant as he reveals his plan was to assume the identities of his high class victims. But before Double can execute a Memory Break, the Sonozaki sisters and Kirihiko arrive to fight Double in their Dopant forms as the Dummy Dopant transforms into a tire and escapes. Kamen Rider Double calls upon the Revolgarry and the Hardboilder to chase after the Dummy Dopant.
Movie War 2010
After the Mammoth Mecha is dropped, Decade survives the attack and gets on the Machine Decader as he is chased by the Neonoid-possessed Super Crisis Fortress as Kamen Rider Double pursues the Dummy Dopant in his Dummy Wheel form on the Hardboilder. Within moments, the two Rider's battles intermingle as Decade and Double recognize each other and join forces as the other Kamen Riders join in the battle. Decade uses the All Riders Final Form Ride Card to transform the Nine Worlds' Kamen Riders into their Final Form Ride Forms to support Diend and Kiva-la as Double gets the Dummy Dopant off the Mammoth Mecha and convert it into the Hardmammother to take down the Super Crisis Fortress while Decade chases after the Dummy Dopant. As Double manages to destroy the Super Crisis Fortress at the expense of the Hardmammother, Super Shinigami tries to escape when the ShinigamiHakase Memory, which was given by Ryubei Sonozaki who was called "Ryu" by Eijiro himself, falls out of his neck, turning him back into Eijiro Hikari. Kamen Rider Kiva-la rescues him and both escape the ship's destruction unharmed.
However, the Neonoid has also escaped destruction and assimilates the Dummy Dopant to become Ultimate·D. Decade and Double fight Ultimate·D, having trouble until Decade produces the Kamen Rider W Final Form Ride Card. He uses it and splits Kamen Rider Double CycloneJoker into Double CycloneCyclone (controlled by Philip) and Double JokerJoker (controlled by Shotaro). Together, the three Kamen Riders perform the Triple Extreme Rider Kick and destroy Ultimate·D. Soon after, as the other Riders take their leave, Tsukasa and Shotaro part ways after Tsukasa hands Shotaro a Kamen Ride card with Skull's image on it. Shotaro is then approached by a Sokichi Narumi from an A.R. World, who tells him the way Shotaro wears his hat is proof of him being a respectable man as well as saying they should meet again. Tsukasa returns to the Hikari Studio where a new backdrop depicting an endless road falls as the others wish continue to journey with him. Tsukasa, Natsumi, Yusuke, and Daiki all pose in front of the backdrop as Eijiro takes a photo. In Futo, as Asami accepts her sister's death and move on, the party resumes at the Narumi Detective Office, with Shotaro reassured of his task to follow through with his mentor's wishes.
After the credits, in another part of Futo, a mysterious young man named Ryu Terui proclaims that Double is no longer the only Kamen Rider in Futo as he holds up a red Gaia Memory which soon announces its name: Accel.
Thoughts
Finale of Decade and crossover with W and it's a bit of interesting film. The Decade part of the film, despite its problems, is my favorite part of the film. I think what I like about it is that it serves as a nice conclusion to Decade as a show but showing that the journey is neverending and that this will continue their journey, seeing Tsukasa in a more villainous role that works for his role as being the destroyer of worlds instead of being some Great Leader of Shocker, Natsumi being is good, and seeing some of the previous A.R. Riders was nice. Biggest problems with this is that the conclusion to Decade is locked behind a movie instead being in the show proper, and some characters like Yuriko being somewhat useless and could have easily been excluded or replaced with something else like Tsukasa defeating more Riders, or Super Shocker being more of a threat. The W portion has the better written story but as someone who has not watched W, I don't really have much of an attachment for these characters. Only things I know about W are Shoutaro and that Kari-chan simped for Renn Kiriyama, Shoutaro's actor, for a long while before Junya Komatsu, Hiromi from Revice's actor, appeared and she has simped for that man for nearly 4 years straight. Side tangent aside, the W part from my limited knowledge of the show seems to be good and this part probably would be my favorite if I had watched W but alas, this wasn't the show chosen for the review. Also, what the fuck was Shoutaro wearing in the flashbacks before Sokichi got gunned down, like what weirdo wears shorts in the winter especially during Christmas. Reminds me of a goofy custom character appearing in a sad scene. Apparently, Sokichi dying may have fixed Shoutaro's fashion sense from what I can tell. The Movie War portion is fine, and does the regular Rider movie shtick of beating the literal shit out of villains with their new toys and Rider kicks. Overall, this film is good despite its problems and lack of knowledge for one portion of the movie, but it was still a good film and the best of the three films reviewed so far. Sidenote, I should probably ask Kari-chan and Mana-chan about their opinions on some Rider and Sentais considering I'm going to eventually cover Gotchard and King-Ohger in some of the later reviews.
Rating: 9/10: Good and enjoyable film despite its problem.
Extra Content: Protect the World of Televi-Kun, Kamen Rider G, Episode Yellow, and All Riders Super Spin-off Net Movies
Special "Protect the World of Televi-Kun"
Synopsis
The DVD begins with the viewer entering the Hikari Studio where Natsumi Hikari and Yuusuke Onodera greet him before they notice a new back drop, depicting a cover of an issue of the children's magazine Televi-Kun. They discover that Tsukasa is trapped in an issue of Televi-Kun, and Daiki Kaito explains that they are in the World of Televi-Kun. Suddenly, Dai-Shocker's Televi Bae-Kun appears and challenges the Kamen Riders to a fight. Depending on the choices made during the fight, as Decade and Diend are being beaten by Televi Bae-Kun and his Dai-Shocker Combatmen, Yusuke attempts to build the Decade Bazooka to turn the battle in their favor.
If formed in time, Decade uses the Decade Bazooka to blast the Dai-Shocker Combatmen to bits before assuming Complete Form and summoning all of the Heisei Kamen Riders in their most powerful forms to execute an attack using all of their power. After the fight, Tsukasa and company bid farewell to their new friend (the viewer).
Thoughts
This is a fun and nice little special that serves as a nice little break from everything that has happened so far. Fights are normal and comedy is good. Overall, a nice little special that serves as a nice breathe from everything.
Rating: 8/10: A nice little special.
Special "Kamen Rider G"
Synopsis
Goro is a sommelier who transforms into the titular Kamen Rider G to fight the former anti-terrorism unit Shade, who captured and brainwashed him into a soldier, before the unit went underground due to the use of kidnapped people as supersoldiers. During a raid at TV Asahi led by Daido Oda, who demands the release of their imprisoned leader, Seizan Tokugawa, Goro encounters his girlfriend Eri Hinata. She jogs his memory and he attacks his former comrades while getting Eri out of harm's way. This makes Oda reveal his true form as the Phylloxera Worm while his subordinates transform into the Acarina Worm, the Subst Worm, the Brachypelma Worm Viridis, and the Cochlea Worm to attempt to destroy the traitor. After an extended fight across the city and countryside, G manages to defeat Phylloxera Worm thanks to the encouragement of Decade and the other primary Heisei Riders appearing before him. Running off, Goro vows to save the world from Shade before returning to Eri.
Thoughts
Another fine special and a Rider with a gimmick that I'm pretty sure inspired the food Riders like the Gaim Riders and the Gavv Riders. Goro was a fine enough protagonist and story was fine. Tsukasa literally appears to do nothing except just say words to inspire Goro while the other 9 Heisei Riders just pose for the camera. This only counts as Decade because it was released before Kamen Rider Decade proper.
Rating: 7/10: Average special with barely any Decade.
Special "Episode Yellow: de End Pirates"
Synopsis
At night in Tokyo, a man jumps from building to building, leaving sparkly sand as he moves. Momotaros and the other Tarōs pursue him, with Momotaros thinking he met him before as the figure easily dispatches his pursuers. When Ryotaro arrives, the Spider Imagin possessing the man emerges, having completed the contract with the boy's appearance. Ryotaro uses a Rider Ticket on the man, chasing the Imagin to November 22, 2008, with Den-O Sword Form quickly taking the Spider Imagin out.
As Momotaros and the others look around for the Rider Pass he tossed aside while performing the finishing attack, they see the possessed man from before holding it, revealing that he used the Spider Imagin to possess him so he could hijack the DenLiner as Momotaros remembers who this man is: "that robber rider" Daiki Kaito. Stranding Ryotaro and the Tarōs in 2008, Daiki holds the Owner and Naomi at gunpoint as the Owner reveals his plans to steal time failed as the DenLiner can only go to the date on the ticket as it as a strong memory that keeps it from fading. Realizing that there is a treasure nearby, Daiki runs off to find it.
Seeing the DenLiner over the distance, Ryotaro and the Tarōs chase after it until Ryotaro sees Daiki running off in another direction. He finds Daiki confronting his past self, shooting him dead to Ryotaro's shock. However, past Daiki's wound heals as he runs off with Daiki shooting him more. Soon as the Tarōs arrive, a man suddenly appears from another point in time with a golden revolver trained on Daiki, Officer Reiji Kurosaki. He has come to arrest Daiki for threatening to cause a time paradox before transforming into Kamen Rider G Den-O as Daiki responds by becoming Kamen Rider Diend. Ryotaro and the Taros watch G Den-O as he overwhelms Diend with his advance arsenal and the intelligence of the artificial Imagin Eve before arresting him. However, with the Time Police taking over, G Den-O arrests the Tarōs on the charge of altering time and deporting Ryotaro to his time. Only Urataros escapes long enough to witness past Daiki stealing a briefcase from the Kurosaki estate, pushing aside a young boy who got in his way, before G Den-O finds him. Back in the present time, as Issē and Ozaki look at the drawing Ryotaro made of their family, Ryotaro talks to Kohana of what Urataros told him prior to his arrest. Overhearing their talk, Ozaki remembers a theft occurred at the Kurosaki estate on that date: someone broke in and stole the family's golden gun. But it leaves the question to why Daiki went to that moment of his past.
At the Time Police's jail, the Imagin try to talk their way out as Daiki complains about their nosy racket as Urataros reveals he know about his robbery. By then, Kurosaki arrives with two guards, ignoring the Taros while telling him the will be judged while phrasing what Urataros heard Daiki tell a young boy in the past. By then, the Owner appears to bail the Taros before being arrested as an accomplice with the DenLiner now Time Police property as Daiki manages to grab one of guards, faking a wish to give up his life of crime to sneak the keys off the man and using them to frees himself, throwing the keys to the Imagin a bit out of reach. After failed attempts to get the keys, they see Ryotaro and Kohana have been arrested as well, and put into the cell next to the Tarōs who are still trying to reach the keys. Ryotaro beckons for Momotaros to come closer, which Momotaros realizes what is being said as he possesses the boy, beating the guards with Kohana as she lets everyone free. Ryotaro says they still have to get to the DenLiner, and the Owner gives him an Infinity Ticket to solve the mystery while he has a meeting with the Stationmaster.
On the DenLiner, Naomi arrives to tell Kurosaki that Daiki has escaped. However, Kurosaki senses something off and aims his damaged golden gun at "Naomi," revealing her to be Daiki. Daiki then takes of his Naomi disguise as he is forced off the DenLiner at gun point and clearance to execute. Daiki attempts to distract Kurosaki by pointing that Ryotaro and company are behind him as the DenLiner crew takes control of the DenLiner once more and return to November 22, 2008. Daiki has used the Diendriver to latch onto the back of the DenLiner, traveling with them as Eve deems them all for execution. Diend manages to get to the DenLiner's cockpit and holds Den-O at gunpoint, forced to explain that the purpose of his time trip was to undo the chain of events that left the gun damaged while Daiki was distracted by several letters hidden in the box so he can steal it in mint condition. Though the others refuse to help, Ryotaro decides to help Daiki with Urataros backing it up. Arriving at November 22, 2008, the group is ambushed by G Den-O as Den-O holds him off in his Ax and Gun Forms before Momotaros takes over the fight.
With Urataros possessing him to save him, Daiki transforms into Diend and uses the UraRod to deflect bullets back before using the Invisible Attack Ride Card to catch G Den-O off guard. By them, Daiki manages to make it to where his past self is before the gun is damaged, though Kurosaki appears. Before Daiki can get to his Diendriver once more, Kurosaki shoots him with the golden gun. The bullet goes through Daiki and hits the case the past Daiki is carrying, knocking it out of his hands, sending the papers within flying as Daiki gets the golden gun. Enraged that he was used, losing his golden gun as time has been altered so that it was never damaged and possessed by Daiki, Kurosaki stopped when he noticed the letters from the box. Daiki and Kohana reveal the letters to all to be from his mother, with the latter revealing to Kurosaki that his mother did loved him and wishes to see him. Though Kurosaki feels he cannot let go of his hate, Daiki tells him that the letters should be his treasure. Disappointed that Kurosaki refuses to deliver final judgment, Eve takes matters into his own hands and becomes G Den-O to purge the Earth of all illogical life.
Everyone escapes from G Den-O as Daiki runs into his past self and asks for his aid against G Den-O. Both transform and past Diend steals the golden gun as he falls back. Den-O arrives to support Diend with the others. But the five are outmatched by G Den-O until Den-O assumes Climax Form as Kurosaki arrives with Diend saving him from a stray shot.
Kurosaki thanks Diend for opening his eyes as he gives him a K-Touch which he soon uses to become Diend Complete Form. He then uses the Attack Ride Gekijouban Card to summon Kamen Riders G4, Ryuga, Orga, Glaive, Kabuki, Caucasus, Arc, and Skull, and as a group with Den-O Climax Form, destroy Kamen Rider G Den-O. In the end, before entering the Hikari Photo Studio, Daiki thanks Ryotaro and Kohana for their help as Kurosaki goes to visit his mother at a flower shop, wanting to talk to her as he learns that she truly cared for him. On the DenLiner, as the others are perplexed as the Owner arrives with the Stationmaster as they start a contest where they are flicking balls of fried rice at plates at distances with the Owner using the spoons from Episode Blue used as a golf club while they measure the distance with the tape from Episode Red. Soon after, Naomi serves everyone coffee as Ryotaro's regular mug is missing, realizing that Daiki must have taken it. Back at the photo studio, though he believes that would be their last meeting, Daiki would never forget Kamen Rider Den-O.
Thoughts
Another fun movie and one that gives some focus to Daiki. Eve was a good enough villain for this film. Kurosaki had a nice character arc. Den-Liner Crew from what I can get from the Den-O arc and Onigishima Warship. Overall, just a fun film.
Rating: 8/10: Another fun movie.
Special "Kamen Rider Decade: All Riders Super Spin-Off"
Synopsis
The Net Movies are split upt into four sections.
Petition! is where topics like should Tackle count as a Kamen Rider are brought up to Toei to make it so.
Check! is where they show off a Kamen Rider's suit and explanation behind the design. Also known as Rider Fashion Check.
For Real! Heisei/Shōwa Rider Athletic Meet!! is a sports competitions between the Kamen Riders.
Which One! and Quiz! are quiz shows with Tsukasa, Natsumi, Yusuke, Daiki as contestants while Kenichi Suzumura and Narutaki are the hosts with suit actor interviews.
Transform! is where Decade teaches a random person how to assume a Rider transformation pose.
Thoughts
Now we end on a high note with the Net Movies and boy is it good. Starting with Petition!, it's nice seeing these characters in slice of life scenarios, and its interesting to see the wacky things they petition. Check!, Which One!, and Quiz! are fun and gives some fun facts about the design of some of the Riders like Faiz being based off a shark, and some niche facts like Ichigo being the first Rider to not ride a bike. Athletic Meet! is a nice fun sports competition and I like seeing how impressively fast the suit actors are in these suits. Finally, we have my favorite section, Transform!, and it's my favorite because of the wackiness of Tsukasa just turning these guys into Riders and either embarrising them or sending them to die if the Ryuki one is to go by. Overall, this is a fun special and probably my second favorite of all of Decade.
Rating: 10/10: A fun set of short specials.
Overall Thoughts
Kamen Rider Decade is an interesting show and probably my favorite Rider show of the two that I have watched as of now, the other being Amazon.
As a show overall, I love Decade for multiple reasons but it does have its faults, so let's get to those positives and negatives. Let's start with the negatives and the biggest issue with Decade, the story or the lack of direction the story has. Storywise, it ain't good and you can tell by just looking at the two halves as the first half is connected with the reoccurring mission of saving the nine worlds while the other isn't as connected until the final arc.
But to be honest, I don't really think a story is as important as the character because I believe good characters can save a bad story while good story can't save bad characters.
Speaking of characters, to me, Decade's biggest positive is the characters within the story. Let's start with the main cast, Hikari Studio.
Starting with the main Rider, and my favorite character of the show, Tsukasa. Tsukasa as a character is probably the best character of the show and my perosnal favorite Rider of all time. As character, Tsukasa is quite good as while he is bit of dick, he is still willing to fight for others as shown by his interactions with the A.R. Riders and their allies. While he does have some flaws, like his morality, how can be a bit of dick, or how overconfident he is but despite all of it, there is someone inside that no matter what is willing to help. Overall, Tsukasa is pretty much my favoirte Rider of all time.
Next up is our deuragonist and Kamen Rider Kiva-La, Natsumi Hikari. As a character, she serves as a nice foil to Tsukasa's dickishness with her more kinder demeanor but also has moments of anger towards a situation, mostly when Tsukasa does something dumb. Despite their bickering, Natsumi does genuilely care about Tsukasa and vice versa, which is easily shown in the Black/Black RX arc when she is dying, Tsukasa tries everything he can to get back Apollogeist's Perfecter and even gave up a bit of his life force to revive Natsumi from death, and if doesn't say how much both care for each other than I don't what will. Would also explain why these Tsukasa and Natsumi are an otp of mine. Overall, good character and fun moments.
Now we arrive at out our secondary Rider and Kamen Rider Diend, Daiki Kaito. Daiki is interesting as he starts off more as a neutral third party trying to find treasure as a means of self-delusion after being exiled from his world. On one hand, this adds a bit to his character than just a thief who steals for shits and giggles but on the other hand, some of the stuff he steals feels kind of random or useless like the school scrolls from the World of Hibiki or GaGa Armband and one just feels like a dick move like the Perfecter that could have save Natsumi's life but thanks to thief boy, she died and Tsukasa had to give up some of his own life force to save and resurrect Natsumi. Worst part is that apart from the Orga belt that never appears again, he never keeps any of these whether it be losing them or just giving them back. Remind me again how he is a master thief as he seems to either return the things he stole or just lose them by accident or like an idiot. Also, he's the most shipped character with Tsukasa and I kind of just feel neutral on it as I don't really care about this pairing.
Finally, rounding out our main four Riders, Yusuke Onodera. Yusuke is probably the kindest person of the four, and also the most naive as he initially wasn't the bravest or most mature as he can be seen as the "kid" of the group but as the show went on he grew and eventually became brave and became willing to sacrifice himself for the Nine Worlds. I think Yusuke is a fine enough character and I like how he grows and like how he interacts with other main AR Riders like Kiva but my biggest issue is how he kind of doesn't do a lot initially or how kind of useless he is like in the Ryuki, Blade, Faiz, Kabuto and Hibiki arcs or how he doesn't become Kuuga after his arc until the Den-O arc but he was only used for his Final Form Ride but I still like him. Sure, he isn't any Godai, but he doesn't need to be Godai and he is a good enough replacement. Also, buddy is down bad.
Let's speedrun both Eijiro and Kiva-La as I think their fun enough supporting characters and serve as nice comedic relief when things get serious.
Now we arrive at our two main villains, for the first half, Narutaki, and for the second half, Guy/Apollogeist. Starting with Narutaki, as a character, he is fun and quite enjoyable as his hatred for Decade as we know his most iconic catchphrase, "Onore Dikeido"/"Curse you, Decade", but I think as a villain, he isn't really interesting and kind of lacking as he doesn't do much and when he does, he only summons Riders that don't really do much, but we can't win them all.
Now we get to Guy, and as a character, he isn't really interesting and very boring as there isn't much to him as he is generic but as a villain and controversially, I feel the threat level rise with him as he can actually beat Tsukasa in a fight and he actually feels like a threat as if Tsukasa and co fail, the Worlds are destroyed and Dai-Shocker now rules the newly remade world, and points for Guy, he actually killed Natsumi and I think that makes him good enough. TLDR, Narutaki is a better character, but Guy is a better threat/villain. Overall, I think the villains were fine, nothing new or special.
Anyways, here's a ranking of all of the arcs:
Shinkenger Arc (Favorite)
Blade Arc
Kabuto Arc
Den-O Arc
Negatives Arc (tied with Hibiki)
Hibiki Arc (tied with Negatives)
Diend Arc
Ryuki Arc
Kuuga Arc
Black and Black RX Arc
Agito Arc
Kiva Arc
Faiz Arc
Amazon Arc (Least Favorite)
Conclusion/Rating
Overall, Kamen Rider Decade is a flawed show with a lot of problems, yet it has a lot of heart inside of it as the characters kept me hooked and considering this was my first full exposure of Kamen Rider and considering Tsukasa is my favorite Rider of all time, I wouldn't have it any other way. Thanks for everything Decade because without you, I don't think I would have ever found Kamen Rider or be here and I don't think I would have ever met people like @narashikari, @maou-the-tree, @kawaiilizzie, @askrikkaiandhyotei, @i-am-randomtrash00, @queenvernage, or @phantomijoker.
Off topic and to be real with you, when I began I didn't really expect to get here as I was just a dumb, naive and lonely kid when I made this account a few years ago, and now, I'm an adult now and my 19th birthday is in 13 days and I'm just glad to have gotten this far, made friends along the way, and do something I love.
So for my friends/mutuals, followers, and anyone reading, thanks for all of the support. I hope I can continue to bring you content for the foreseeable future.
Anyways, now for the rating.
Rating: 9/10, the Rider who began a never ending journey for someone.
So next time when Lowder Reviews returns, join me when I travel to another galaxy in Mega Monster Battle Ultra Galaxy: The Movie, but I think for now, I'm ready for a break.
The Return of Lowder Reviews: Kamen Rider Decade Part 1: Start of a New Decade
Fun fact: This was my first Rider Show but I never finished it.
Warning: These are my opinions and you and I can disagree and agree on some things.
Plot Summary
Natsumi Hikari has repeatedly been having dreams of the Rider War, where every single Rider from the Heisei-era attack one being, a warrior known as "Decade." In reality, she lives with Tsukasa Kadoya, a young man who doesn't seem to be able to call Hikari Studio home. One day, monsters from different dimensions begin to attack people, with the world starting to fall in chaos. Tsukasa, who had been separated from Natsumi, meets the mysterious Wataru Kurenai, who informs Tsukasa about his title as Kamen Rider Decade, the Destroyer of Worlds. Discovering that the nine universes of the Kamen Riders from the Heisei-era are merging into one, which would result in the collapse of multiverse, Tsukasa inherits the mission of traveling across these worlds to eliminate the anomaly in each, while embarking on a journey to find one world where he can call home.
Episode Reviews
The Start of the Journey ~The 9 Rider Worlds~ Arc: 1-19 and Onigashima Warship
Episode 1: "Rider War"
Synopsis
After Natsumi Hikari has a nightmare of every Kamen Rider including Kuuga in his fearsome Ultimate Form, being defeated by a figure called Decade, she helps her grandfather Eijiro deal with unsatisfied customers. The photographer, Tsukasa Kadoya, seems to be at fault, but he simply tells Natsumi the photos are bad because he does not belong in this world. After the argument, various holes in reality open, allowing the Orphnoch, Undead, Makamou, Worms, Imagin and Fangires to start terrorizing their world. In the bedlam, she finds a corroded belt and book, recalling it as Decade's from her dream. She gives Tsukasa the belt and book, allowing him to transform into Kamen Rider Decade by using a card from the book and inserting it into the belt. Using other cards, he fights the various monsters that have invaded his reality by transforming into Kamen Riders Kabuto, Faiz, and Hibiki. Back in his own reality, Tsukasa is warned by Wataru Kurenai that his reality is being superseded by the nine previous Kamen Riders' realities. He must go to their worlds and defeat the other Kamen Riders to save his own world, while Wataru keeps it frozen in place. Back in the Hikari Studio, Eijiro reveals a large photo that shows another world. Stepping outside, Tsukasa finds himself in this world as a police officer while Kamen Rider Kuuga appears to aid the police against two Gurongi.
Thoughts
The first episode of Decade is wild and a quite an interesting start to the show. This episode sets up what we are going to be doing for the next 18 episodes. This a nice way to introduce some of our cast and establish what their characters are like with Tsukasa being somewhat of a dick and Natsumi being the opposite. The action is pretty good and is better than the previous three shows in that aspect.
Rating: 9/10: Good Introduction to the series and story
Episode 2: "The World of Kuuga"
Synopsis
Arriving in the World of Kuuga, Tsukasa takes the disguise of a policeman and watches Kuuga destroy a pair of Gurongi, La·Doldo·Gu and Me·Garido·Gi, before reverting to his human form, Yusuke Onodera. Tsukasa later destroys Go·Babel·Da as Decade, but is mistaken for a Gurongi by Yusuke and Ai. When Yusuke and Ai arrive at the Hikari Studio to discuss this strange Gurongi, Tsukasa offers Ai his help in solving the mystery behind the Gurongi's female targets and the location of their lair. On the foot of Mount Hitoki, the Gurongi's Lair, Tsukasa reveals he used Ai as bait to lure out the remaining Gurongi, revealing their plan to revive their leader before ruining their game. While attempting to destroy the Gurongi, Decade is attacked by Kuuga, who reveals he knows about Decade's mission and will stop him at all costs. Natsumi pleads for them to stop, recalling her dream in which Decade and Kuuga seemingly destroy each other. A dimensional rift occurs, and their fight is interrupted by the appearance of Kamen Riders KickHopper and PunchHopper.
Thoughts
Our first tribute and another fun episode. The plot is fine for what it is and this is a nice way to tribute a Rider of the past with its different take on Kuuga. We're introduced to our new Kuuga, Onodera, and enjoyed how different he is. Fights are stellar as always. Negatives are this episode ending on a cliffhanger but that's what the next episode is for.
Rating: 8/10: Another fun episode.
Episode 3: "Transcendence"
Synopsis
After fending off the Hoppers who disappeared into another dimensional rift, Yusuke reveals he was told of Decade by a mysterious man. When Ai and her task force go to investigate Mount Hitoki, a black mist begins to rise from within, signaling the revival of N·Gamio·Zeda. Resurrected by the dimensional chaos, he uses his miasma to convert humans into Gurongi. While Yusuke saves Ai and takes her to the hospital, Tsukasa fights the Gurongi alone. A dying Ai requests Yusuke to overcome his angst and fight to protect everyone's smiles, and so Kuuga and Decade work together to destroy the remaining Gurongi. N·Gamio·Zeda, in a last effort, absorbs all the Gurongi to power himself up, but he is ultimately overpowered by both Decade and Kuuga, who destroy him with a combo attack. After returning to the hospital, Yusuke finds that Ai has died and vows to honor her dying wish, setting off on his own journey with a mysterious white bat following him. Meanwhile, Tsukasa and Natsumi return to the photo studio, preparing to leave for the next world in their journey.
Thoughts
Second half of the tribute and a lot happens in this episode. We are introduced to a recurring villain, Narutaki, and it seems that he has some history with Tsukasa, wonder what it is? The moment between Yusuke and Tsukasa was nice because it shows that despite being a bit dick, Tsukasa is still a good person and is willing to stand up for others. Biggest problem with the episode is how they glanced over on what to those that became Gurongi by N·Gamio·Zeda, but maybe it wasn't important.
Rating: 9/10: Great episode with a lot of emotion in it.
Episode 4: "Second Movement ♬ Prince Kiva"
Synopsis
Arriving in the World of Kiva, Tsukasa and company discover that the Fangires of this world have made a truce with the humans. However, when Tsukasa finds the Lion Fangire attacking a young woman, he transforms into Decade to fight him. Wataru, the King of the Fangire Race, witnesses this and becomes Kamen Rider Kiva to fight him with the aid of his Arms Monsters, forcing Decade to assume Kamen Rider Kuuga's Mighty, Titan, and Dragon Forms to counter. Yusuke manages to stop the fight, and the Swallowtail Fangire reveals that the young woman was actually a renegade Fangire. Yusuke reveals he has promised to help Wataru because he is uncomfortable with being the King. After meeting a mysterious man who is disgusted with the human/Fangire treaty, Tsukasa later encounters Kiva-la, who uses her power to send him into another world where he is attacked by Kamen Rider Kaixa. Back in the World of Kiva, after having fed on many humans, the Beetle Fangire arrives at Castle Doran with the intent to kill Wataru and take his place as the King.
Thoughts
Now we arrive at the Kiva tribute and it has quite the interesting concept of the Humans coexisting alongside each other. The concept is executed well enough and I enjoyed what it brought to the table. Fights are still going strong. Characters are about as strong and I think seeing Tsukasa be proven wrong is good as it shows that he has flaws. Also, Narutaki continues to let other primary Riders try to defeat Tsukasa but failing, wonder this will be a trend.
Rating: 8/10: Good Episode with interesting concept.
Episode 5: "The Biting King's Qualifications"
Synopsis
As Tsukasa is fighting against Kaixa in another dimension, the Beetle Fangire defeats Wataru and becomes the new Fangire king, claiming Kivat. After the new King dissolves the truce, Yusuke arrives to protect Wataru before the boy runs off. After Yusuke expresses his reasons for helping the dethroned boy, Wataru takes refuge in the Hikari Studio. After being caught up on current events, Tsukasa makes his way to Castle Doran to save Yusuke as the Beetle Fangire absorbs the Arms Monsters into himself. After destroying the Swallowtail Fangire, Decade encounters the Beetle Fangire, who assumes Kiva's DoGaBaKi Form. When their fight makes its way to Yusuke and Wataru, the boy finds his courage to overcome his Fangire impulses and declares himself the King once more. He takes back the Kiva power and helps Decade battle the Beetle Fangire, mortally wounding him with a Darkness Moon Break/Dimension Kick combo. Later, Tsukasa pays a final visit to the Kurenai manor to play a final song for the dying Beetle Fangire, whom he knew was the man he met earlier and is Wataru's father. Soon after, as Yusuke moves into the Hikari Studio with Kiva-la sneaking in, the group prepares to enter yet another world.
Thoughts
Second half of the Kiva tribute and another good episode with great character moments like Yusuke and Wataru's friendship. Liked seeing a double Rider kick being what finishes the Beetle Fangire instead of being the Final Form Ride. Also, Narutaki finally introduces himself to Tsukasa and it will probably come up more later on.
Rating: 8/10: Good episode with great character moments.
Episode 6: "Battle Trial: Ryuki World"
Synopsis
Upon arriving in the World of Ryuki, Natsumi goes to the Atashi Journal headquarters to learn about the world's Kamen Riders from its editor, Reiko Momoi. After Natsumi's arrival at the journal's offices, Reiko is mysteriously murdered, leaving Natsumi as the culprit as she had a small fork in her hand. Natsumi is arrested under suspicion of murder, and is to be sentenced with a Kamen Rider Trial: a system where Kamen Riders fight in the Mirror World to determine the outcome of criminal cases. Natsumi calls upon Tsukasa to be her lawyer, who meets with Shinji Tatsumi to hear what he knows of what happened to Reiko. As Shinji reveals that he is Kamen Rider Ryuki and he believes Natsumi was framed, his former friend Kamen Rider Knight is fighting in the Kamen Rider Trial, defeating several opponents. Shinji suggests to Tsukasa that he should fight as Decade in the Kamen Rider Trial to clear Natsumi's name. At the scene, he finds that Ren Haguro was also at the scene of the crime before he is brought into the Mirror World along with the sub-editor of the Atashi Journal: Kamata. Decade and Abyss' fight, however, is interrupted by Kamen Rider Imperer, and Abyss leaves to watch Decade's abilities. Elsewhere, Shinji confronts Ren, believing he is Reiko's real murderer, and he challenges him as Kamen Rider Ryuki. Their fight is also interrupted by Decade, having just defeated Imperer and now turning his sights on Knight, easily overwhelming him in Kiva's various forms with Shinji watching.
Thoughts
Another tribute and another good episode with something new as it doesn't start with the group just arriving but already trying to find other and this is good because it can help differentiate it from other episodes. Like the murder mystery aspect because while it's obvious who it's going to be, you can still guess who will be the one who did it. Also, we get a new Rider with Kamen Ride Abyss and he looks cool.
Rating: 8/10: Good episode that tries something new.
Episode 7: "Super Trick of the Real Criminal"
Synopsis
After defeating Knight, Decade is about to finish him off when Ryuki pleads with him not to deliver the final blow, as he feels Knight must answer for his crime by his hand. However, Abyss uses this time to make his move to take out all three Riders at once, forcing them to retreat with Ren refusing to answer Shinji as he leaves. After her brief encounter with Narutaki, Natsumi learns that Shinji and Tsukasa are convinced that Ren is Reiko's murderer, although Yusuke sees otherwise. Meanwhile, a wounded Ren battles Kamen Rider Odin and defeats him, emerging from Mirror World with Odin's Time Vent as Shinji and Yusuke find him. Learning that Ren obtained the card to save Reiko, Shinji uses the card to go back in time as Tsukasa holds Abyss off. Arriving seconds before Reiko's death, Shinji and Tsukasa manage to save Reiko with the latter cornering her true murderer, Kamata. Despite this, Kamata arrives and absorbs his past self before becoming Abyss and unleashing his monsters on Decade. After learning the truth behind Ren coming to the Atashi Journal and why he left, a relieved Shinji runs to Tsukasa's aid. Though the two manage to defeat Abyss together, they learn from Narutaki that Kamata is actually an Undead as the two depart. After he receives Shinji's photo of himself and Yusuke, Tsukasa and company enter the World of Blade.
Thoughts
Second half of the tribute and another fun episode as the real murderer is revealed to be Abyss which didn't shock me but what did shock me was that he's from another world and an undead. Character moments are still good and liked they were able to find out it was Abyss by using Time Vent, even if it felt kinda forced.
Rating: 7/10: Good Episode with a nice twist.
Episode 8: "Welcome to the Blade Restaurant"
Synopsis
Arriving in the World of Blade, Tsukasa assumes the disguise of the Chief Waiter of the BOARD Corporation, a mega corporate with hired Kamen Riders to battle the Undead under an immoral ranking system. When the Elephant Undead goes on the attack, Sakuya Hishigata battles the Undead as Kamen Rider Garren as Kazuma Kendate arrives and transforms into Kamen Rider Blade. When the Capricorn Undead joins the fray, Tsukasa joins the fight, dispatching the Elephant Undead using Ryuki's powers. Afterwards, Natsumi and Yusuke meet BOARD's president Hajime Shijyo, who decides to promote Tsukasa to the rank of King while Kazuma Kendate is demoted from Ace to 7 for disobedience and Mutsuki Kuroha is promoted from King to Ace, thereby becoming Kamen Rider Leangle. As a result, he is forced to work under Tsukasa in the cafeteria. When he is forced to give up the Blay Buckle after being demoted a second time, Kazuma refuses and runs off. Just as Tsukasa tries to convince Kazuma to do the right thing, Kamata arrives and attacks them as the Paradoxa Undead. As Decade battles the Paradoxa Undead with the Capricorn Undead backing him up, Kazuma becomes Blade and fights Garren and Leangle. However, both fights are interrupted with the appearance of Kamen Rider Chalice, who takes the Blay Buckle off of Kazuma and takes out the other Riders before fighting Decade one-on-one.
Thoughts
Another tribute and another good episode with a fun premise. This episode is fun and give it a rouzing applause as it is somehow the most realistic when it comes to working in a company despite the joke of being Kamen Rider Salaryman. While, I have never worked at a company, I can still enjoy this episode no matter what. This arc looks likes it's shaping up to be my favorite.
Rating: 9/10: A fun episode with a great premise.
Episode 9: "Blade Blade"
Synopsis
Decade continues his fight with Chalice, with Garren losing his Garren Buckle in the process. The fight comes to a sudden halt when Kamen Rider Todoroki shows up. Back at BOARD, Hishigata is demoted to Rank 3 while Kazuma is fired from BOARD. After he understands Tsukasa's intent to help him, Kazuma stays on in the kitchen as he opens the Ace Lunch to all BOARD members. Meanwhile, Mutsuki and Hishigata search for Chalice to get back the Rider systems, and are subsequently ambushed by Chalice, who knocks them out after they find out his true identity. After hearing that the two have supposedly resigned from the company, Kazuma decides to find Hajime with Yusuke's help. As Tsukasa meets a mysterious figure who recognizes him, Kazuma and Yusuke arrive too late to save Hishigata and Mutsuki as Hajime uses the created card from the Rider Systems to become the Joker, revealing his reasons to Kazuma. Decade arrives as Ryuki with the Blay Buckle and gives Kazuma the resolve to fight back. Once Kazuma becomes Blade, he and Decade destroy the two Undead together. Soon after parting ways with Kazuma, Tsukasa and company begin their next venture into the World of Faiz.
Thoughts
This episode is fun and cements to me that the Blade arc is my favorite as of now, because of its concept, execution, and Characters as this world's cast of characters are the most fun. The character moments help make this arc feel strong in my opinion. Also, we get a cameo for one Daiki Kaito.
Rating: 9/10: Another good episode to my favorite arc up until now.
Episode 10: "Faiz High School's Phantom Thief"
Synopsis
Upon arriving in the World of Faiz and once more encountering the mysterious Daiki Kaito, Tsukasa finds himself in a school uniform and enrolled at Smart Brain High School. He learns that the high school is attacked on a nightly basis by beings called the Orphnoch, with only Faiz to protect the school. Daiki challenges Tsukasa to find out who Faiz is, and Tsukasa then challenges the Lucky Clover clique to a tennis match to see if any of them are Faiz. He beats them, learning that they are Orphnoch who are also after Faiz, and is forced to become Decade, using Blade's power against them. However, Decade is outclassed when Momose appears as the Tiger Orphnoch and warns him to back off. Daiki then confronts the group, giving them a hint as to who Faiz is before going off. Then, the Lucky Clover members target Yuri Tomoda and Takumi Ogami, believing Yuri is Faiz until Takumi transforms and fights them off. When Tsukasa learns that Yuri is the target, he goes off to fight the Orphnoch, watching Faiz get defeated and losing the belt. The fight is then interrupted by Daiki Kaito who transforms into Kamen Rider Diend while revealing he used the Lucky Clover to take the belt for himself. Once the Centipede Orphnoch is destroyed, Decade and Diend have a stand off over the Faiz Belt as Momose attacks Yuri as the Tiger Orphnoch only to meet his match with Takumi who transforms into the Wolf Orphnoch to protect his friend.
Thoughts
Another good episode and a good introduction to our secondary Rider. Characters are as good as always and this episode helps us get used to our new secondary Rider, Daiki Kaito aka Kamen Rider Diend. This episode also hints at Tsukasa's past with Daiki knowing him.
Rating: 8/10: Good episode and introduction to our Secondary Rider.
Episode 11: "555 Faces, 1 Treasure"
Synopsis
After Tsukasa recovers the Faiz Gear, he learns Diend's reasons for wanting the belt before Takumi regains it so he and a shocked Yuri can escape on the Autovajin. However, as he exposed himself as the Wolf Orphnoch to protect her only to be forsaken, a saddened Takumi attempts to dispose of the Faiz Gear into the river. Managing to save the Gear while following him, Tsukasa returns to the photo studio where he put Yuri's confusion at ease. The next day, Daiki attacks Takumi to get the belt from him, nearly killing him when Tsukasa arrives with it. Refusing to take Tsukasa's words of something more precious than the Faiz Gear seriously, Daiki takes Decade's Ride Booker, and Narutaki takes advantage of the situation as he takes Tsukasa into another dimension to be killed by Kamen Rider Ryuga. However, after interrogating Kiva-la on the whereabouts, Daiki intervenes while claiming it was to get the Faiz Gear as he gives Tsukasa back the Ride Booker. While this occurs, the remaining Lucky Clover members start taking over the school to sire more of their kind until Takumi arrives to fight them in Orphnoch form. Though no match, Takumi attempts to protect Yuri's camera until Tsukasa arrives as he regains Faiz's Rider Cards. Decade and the Wolf Orphnoch are outmatched until Daiki arrives with the Faiz Gear and gives it to Takumi. The two transform and destroy the Dragon and Lobster Orphnoch. However, the Tiger Orphnoch revives his followers, and Decade counters with the Final Attack Ride Faiz Blaster, destroying him and his followers in one shot. As Takumi and Yuri rekindle their friendship, Daiki steals the Orga Belt from the ruins of the school, and Tsukasa follows him to the World of Agito.
Thoughts
Another good episode with great character moments like Takumi defending the students from the Orphonoch, even if they see him has a monster. Narutaki reappears hints at what will potentially happen to Tsukasa and Daiki.
Rating: 8/10: Good episode with great character moments.
Episode 12: "Reunion: Project Agito"
Synopsis
Upon arriving in the World of Agito, Yusuke is shocked that there are Gurongi in the world which are being dealt with by Kamen Rider G3-X. He is further shocked when he sees an interview with Tohko Yashiro, who is physically identical to the Ai Yashiro that died back in the World of Kuuga. Arriving at the police station, Yusuke offers to be the new user of the G3-X suit, but loses the position to Kaito. While this occurs, finding himself in a mailman outfit with a letter to Shoichi Ashikawa, Tsukasa and Natsumi find the man before they are attacked by what they think to be a Gurongi. But during the fight, Tsukasa realizes he is fighting an Unknown, an Ant Lord called Formica Pedes. After destroying the Ant Lord, Shouichi refuses the letter before he and Tsukasa dodge an attack meant for him by a mysterious Unknown. Later that night, as Tsukasa reads the letter's contents, Yusuke leaves the Hikari Studio to remain in the World of Agito with Toko. The next day, Kaito is deployed as G3-X to take out the Gurongi with Yusuke supporting him. During the fight, Kaito takes off the armor to finish the Gurongi off as Diend, revealing that he only became G3-X for his own agenda. Though he destroys Me·Ginoga·De, Xu·Mevio·Da attempts to run off only to destroyed by a couple of Formica Pedes. While this occurs, Tsukasa finds Shouichi and offers protection, only to see him transform into Exceed Gills. Tsukasa attempts to restrain him as Kiva in Garulu Form. Gills, in pain of sensing the Ant Lords' attack, runs off and destroys them both before Yusuke's eyes. When Diend targets Gills, Decade tries to protect him, only to have his belt stolen by Gills with no defense against Diend's summoned Delta's Lucifer's Hammer finisher.
Thoughts
Another fun episode as the Agito tribute doesn't have the primary Rider immediately debut, and I love this change of pace. The mystery of why Shoichi is the way he is going to be interesting to find out. Also, Tsukasa is about to die at the end and the face he makes is hilarious.
Rating: 8/10: Good episode with interesting mystery.
Episode 13: "Awakening: Tornado of Souls"
Synopsis
After Yusuke saves Tsukasa from Delta's attack, Gills is about to fight when he's overcome with pain as the Unknown shows up to kill him. As Shouichi escapes, Toko recognizes him via G3-X's camera. While Tsukasa insists on protecting an annoyed Shouichi, Yusuke reports the defeat of the Gurongi and the emergence of the Unknown. He finds Toko saddened, but has little time to help her as Kaito takes the G4 chip stored within locker belongs to Shouichi. Yusuke demands the chip back, but during the struggle, Toko blasts the chip to bits and a disappointed Kaito leaves. The next day, as Tsukasa continues to keep Shouichi safe from the Unknowns' attack, Yusuke learns that Shouichi was the original user of the G3 suit when he receives the letter for Shouichi from Toko. As Gills fights the Buffalo Lord Taurus Ballista, Yusuke arrives in the G3-X suit to make Shouichi realize that Toko knew the truth and it was the reason for creating the G3-X suit. Diend arrives to selfishly aid them with Blade's power until Ballista arrives. But Tsukasa shows up to state the Buffalo Lord's idealogical flaws as Shouichi awakens as Agito. As Diend takes his leave noting Agito is beyond G4, Decade, Agito, and G3-X battle Ballista and Formica Regia before the latter is destroyed by Agito. After turning Agito into the Agito Tornador, Decade and G3-X ride on the hoverboard to finish the Lord off. Soon after, Yusuke gives Toko his thanks as he says goodbye to her, and Shouichi returns to resume his place by Toko's side as Agito. As Kiva-la is happy to see Yusuke returning to the Studio, the gang ends up in another world: the World of Den-O.
Thoughts
Another Great episode with a reason for why Shoichi left the G3 Unit and his relationship with Yashiro is nice. The Agito tribute gave Yusuke some much needed significance compared to previous episodes and this helped for me as he was somewhat lacking in actual importance. Overall, love this episode.
Rating: 9/10: Great episode that Yusuke a lot of character.
Episode 14: "Super Den-O Beginning"
Synopsis
When the Hikari Studio appears in the World of Den-O, Tsukasa finds himself dressed in a strange detective-like attire with possession of a Rider Pass. He is then suddenly possessed by an Imagin, who battles a Mole Imagin as Kamen Rider Den-O. After taking out the Imagin, the possessed Tsukasa walks off until Natsumi uses her pressure point move to drive the Imagin out of him. When the Imagin known as Momotaros tries to possess Tsukasa, again, he throws Yusuke in front of him and Yusuke becomes possessed. After easily overcoming M-Yusuke and treating him to pudding for answers, Tsukasa learns that the Imagin lost his physical form some time before they arrived. The possessed Yusuke then runs out of the Hikari Studio to go after the other Mole Imagin with Tsukasa and Natsumi close behind as they look for the DenLiner to solve the mystery. However, Urataros, Kintaros, and Ryutaros possess Tsukasa and chase after Natsumi for answers. When Tsukasa forces the three out and they enter Natsumi to fight him, Decade uses Agito's power on each form while a mysterious Kamen Rider-like figure and his lackies attack a group of delivery men, with the Alligator Imagin taking advantage of the chaos. When a dimensional rift sends Decade and Den-O into the dimension where Natsumi saw the Rider War, the two Kamen Riders reach a stalemate as they are picked up by the DenLiner. While the DenLiner's Owner realizes that they have to work together, Yusuke and Momotaros as Den-O are in a losing battle against Diend with Narutaki as witness.
Thoughts
Another fun episode and one that brings more levity despite this being the first time we start to witness a world start to be destroyed. Momotaros possessing Yusuke made Yusuke more useful and helps give him something to do. Natsumi being is fun as she really hasn't done a lot of noteworthy things apart from being morale support and potential love interest to Tsukasa. The Imagin are fun characters and I enjoyed them a lot.
Rating: 8/10: Great episode with fun moments.
Episode 15: "Here Comes Super Momotaros!"
Synopsis
After getting on the DenLiner, Tsukasa takes pictures of the DenLiner's gang before the Taros. But after Kohana sets the three Imagin in their place, they suddently find the Hikari Studio as the front car. Kohana explains to Natsumi about the Imagin's new attack pattern as well as Momotaros, who Tsukasa decides to find. After surviving his confrontation with Diend and taking out another Mole Imagin, M-Yuusuke tends to his injuries as Tsukasa finds him and scolds him for being an idiot. M-Yuusuke senses the Imagin boss, and he and Tsukasa chase after the Alligator Imagin until he reveals himself. Using the Mole Imagin to cover his escape into the past, the Alligator Imagin battles Den-O and Decade, using the former's own DenGasher against him. After Decade saves Den-O's life and attempt, Diend makes his presence known with his Riotroopers holding the Alligator Imagin at bay as he once more offers Momotaros a physical form as a DenLiner. But Decade takes the card, poorly defending Momotaros and giving him back his sense of self as he regains access to Den-O's powers. As the Alligator Imagin destroys the Riotroopers, Decade uses the modified Den-O Final Form card to give Momotaros back his original physical form. After a misunderstanding from Yuusuke, Decade gives Momotaros the power to execute his Decade Version Extreme Slash with Kuuga Gouram. As Momotaros returns to the DenLiner, only to receive a violent welcome back from the gang, Tsukasa and company were about to enter the World of Kabuto when they get an unexpected visit from the Imagin Sieg. With a manuscript on Sieg's person, it appears that the adventures in the World of Den-O are far from over.
Thoughts
Another Great episode and this arc may be my second favorite as of now. This entire arc was a lot more comedic and it was good. The character moments were fun like The Imagins and all of that. Also, next up is our first film in these.
Rating: 9/10: Great episode with a lot of fun moments.
Movie: "Cho Kamen Rider Den-O & Decade Neo Generations: The Onigashima Warship"
Synopsis
Taking place after the events of Kamen Rider Decade episode 15, under the impression that they saved the World of Den-O, Tsukasa Kadoya and company begin their journey to the World of Kabuto when they are halted by Sieg who presents them a manuscript that detailed the legendary Oni Conquest with Momotaros' image on it. As this occurred, the Tarōs mysteriously vanish from the DenLiner as they are about to help Kotaro Nogami out with the true threat to their world.
Meanwhile, in the year 1980, a boy named Yu encounters Mimihiko and then Yu is possessed by Deneb who gets him away from the Gelnewts before New Den-O arrives to cover his escape. Deneb then brings Yu to Ryotaro, revealing Mimihiko to be one of the Oni of legend and is searching for the Trump Stone which Yu possesses. Seeing Yu reluctant to give them the item, Ryotaro leaves him with a DenLiner admission ticket should he change his mind. The next day, Yu runs off after learns that his father wants him to leave with him. Learning he is hunted by the Gelnewts, Yu tries to outrun the monsters on his bike before managing to reach the sands of time where the DenLiner is waiting for him. Giving them the Trump Stone, Yu wishes to be remain on the train. Though Owner warns him their intent to go back in time to fight the Oni, Yu refuses to turn back. After Yu is informed on the effects the distortions had on Ryotaro and Yuto, the former regressed to a child while the latter has mysteriously disappeared, the DenLiner arrives at the Junction Point where they meet the Stationmaster who reveals a 1935 newspaper documenting that Urataros, Kintaros, and Ryutaros caught a band of rice thieves; they have been possessing the bodies of another trio named Jiro, Ramon, and Riki (the Arms Monsters of Kamen Rider Kiva). Traveling to that time, the kids find Tsukasa who offers his aid. Kotaro is reluctant to accept his help until Tsukasa reveals the scroll Sieg brought with him that has Momotaros on it.
Arriving in the Muromachi period, DenLiner gang arrive and defeat the Gelnewts, meeting Toki and joining her at the village's pleas. Once at Onigashima, New Den-O and the villagers catch the Gelnewts off guard as the kids find Momotaros. Deneb asks Yu to form a contract with him, at least until Yuto returns, to be able to assist the others in. Den-O and Deneb join the fray as Kuchihiko arrives and assumes his Rider form Goludora. During the fight, Toki takes a hit meant for Yu before New Den-O is defeated. Using Kotaro as a bargaining chip, Goludora gives them a day to accept his demands for both the Trump Stone and the DenLiner. The next day, after planning it out, the DenLiner gang gives up both the Trump Stone and the DenLiner. Once the Owner and Naomi are evicted, Kuchihiko ditches Kotaro as he enters the DenLiner to reach his brother in the present time period. However, his journey is staged as the evicted "Owner" is the Stationmaster in disguise as the real Owner pulled the emergency break as everyone else has erected a massive set designed to look like modern Tokyo. Once the DenLiner staff and the Stationmaster enter the train, with Kohana guarding the door, Den-O, the Tarōs, and New Den-O battle Goludora and the Gelnewts with Toki providing backup, until she is wounded in battle.
However, Diend appears long enough to summon Kamen Riders Ouja, G3, and Caucasus as wild cards in the fight and Kuchihiko reassembles the Oni's Trump Stone with Mimihiko activating the Demon's Warship in the present and using it to return to the past. The Oni Brothers are able to defeat them until Tsukasa and Sieg arrive, allowing Den-O to assume Wing form as Momotaros possess Tsukasa to fight as Decade. The other Tarōs do the same with Diend's summoned Riders (Urataros with G3, Kintaros with Caucasus, and Ryutaros with Ouja) while Deneb enters Kotaro, enabling Kamen Rider New Den-O to assume Vega Form. Helping Toki fire her arrow, Yu manages to break the Demon's Warship’s anchor to give the Kamen Riders time to set up a way to end the fight. At Decade's suggestion, Ryotaro forms Kamen Rider Den-O Super Climax Form with the Tarōs and Sieg. Cho-Den-O and Decade manage to overwhelm the Oni Brothers with New Den-O Vega Form and Teddy's aid. After Shilubara sacrifices himself to protect his brother, an enraged Goludora enters the Warship and engages the DenLiner in a battle with Decade taking his leave as the DenLiner gang manages to sink the Warship from the inside out as Kamen Rider Den-O Sword finishes Goludora off with a Rider Kick. Soon after, Yu bids farewell to Toki as she is revealed to be his ancestor. Though offered a slight detour before they return to present, Yu turns it down as he wants to be back in his time. After they part ways, Deneb is dropped back in 2009 where he finds Yuto Sakurai waiting for him and it is revealed that he went by the name Yu as a child and they return to the ZeroLiner.
Thoughts
This film is fine and kind of average. It's serviceable enough when it comes to plot. The characters are fine and they had fun moments. I don't really have a lot to say about this film as not a lot happens and barely involves Decade apart from looking for the Taros and the battle against the Oni. Also, the director's cut barely adds anything apart from showing us the filming process and it looked like fun.
Rating: 7/10: Average movie that barely involves Decade.
Episode 16: "Warning: Kabuto Running Amok"
Synopsis
After helping the DenLiner gang in the past, Tsukasa and company begin their venture in the World of Kabuto. Posing as a ZECTrooper, Tsukasa is deployed to aid Brightroopers in the containment of a Worm as Kamen Riders Gatack and TheBee manage to exterminate it with the unseen aid of Kabuto. Soon after, Tsukasa brings Arata to the Studio to explain about his world, only to find a Worm had mimicked Tsukasa's form.
After Natsumi uses the pressure point to expose one of the Tsukasas as a Worm, Decade fights it before it attacks a girl and is destroyed by Kabuto. Deciding to investigate the girl Mayu, they host a photo shoot for her, and Natsumi learns of Mayu's older brother who was supposedly killed by Kabuto. At ZECT's headquarters, TheBee's user, Soh Otogiri, tells Arata that the final prepation for the plans to capture Kabuto are nearly done. Tsukasa talks with Mayu more about her brother after attempting to help at her grandmother's oden shop, the Heaven House, and when walking back to the Hikari Studio they are attacked by a Geophilid Worm. Tsukasa destroys it as Kuuga Pegasus Form, and is then attacked by TheBee and Gatack.
Decade attempts to use Den-O's powers against the Riders, but learns to his dismay that the cards only cause him to perform the forms' trademark phrases, not attacks. Decade is eventually assisted by Diend who fights Gatack to gain his Clock Up system while TheBee and Decade battle, eventually becoming Faiz in Axel Form to match TheBee's Clock Up. When Decade realizes Mayu is in the same area being attacked by Worms, he goes off to save her but is intercepted by an attack from TheBee.
Just as TheBee's stray shots are within inches of Mayu, Kabuto arrives to save her from both the attack and the Worms, disappearing as everyone's transformations end. However, when Mayu sees Sou, she recognizes him as her brother.
Thoughts
Another great episode and this one is a lot more fast-paced compared to previous episodes and I love it here. Moments didn't really feel dragged out and I love seeing this world's Rider not immediately be revealed who it is.
Rating: 8/10: Great with a lot of fast-paced moments.
Episode 17: "The Grandma Way of Taste"
Synopsis
Believing that TheBee's user is her brother, Mayu attempts to look for him with Natsumi's aid until they are attacked by a Worm. Counting on Kamen Rider Kabuto to save them, Diend fights him to acquire his Clock Up system, summoning Ixa and Psyga to hold him down before Kabuto defeats them and runs off. By the time Tsukasa finds Natsumi and Mayu, the latter is shocked that she became a Worm as she runs off.
She runs into Sou who reveals himself as the Phylloxera Worm and brings her to ZECT HQ as part of the Kabuto Capture plan, much to Arata's dismay before he is beaten to a bloody pulp questioning the plan. After escaping, Arata makes his way to Tsukasa and reveals the plan to him, confirming Tsukasa's notion. Kabuto falls for the trap as the Clock Down takes effect while the Worms reveal themselves among the ZECTroopers, with Sou exposing Kabuto as Mayu's real brother Sohji.
Tsukasa arrives and reveals the truth behind the Phylloxera Worm to Mayu while explaining that Sohji and Mayu are still family regardless of the latter being a Worm. But believing he has the advantage, the Phylloxera Worm sics his Worm minions on Tsukasa. Sohji frees Mayu and joins Tsukasa as they assume their Rider forms to finish off the Worm (Chrysalis) before forcing the Phylloxera Worm into the open. Decade and Kabuto finish him off, but the tower projecting the Clock Down waves is destroyed in the process, forcing Sohji to fade back into Clock Up space with Mayu watching. After taking Mayu home and giving Daiki a "treasure" for his trouble, Tsukasa and company begin the final phase of their journey. But as they deal with two Kiva-las fighting over which of them is fake, the real Kiva-la is with Narutaki as he decides to personally deal with Decade in the final world, the World of Hibiki.
Thoughts
Another great episode and one that has some nice emotional moments like Sohji reuniting with his sister before he returns to Clock Up. The fights are cool and the twist while obvious is still well done. This arc maybe one of my favorites excluding the Blade arc.
Rating: 9/10: Great episode with a good emotional beat.
Episode 18: "Idle Hibiki"
Synopsis
Arriving in the last world, the World of Hibiki, Tsukasa and company begin the search for Kamen Rider Hibiki when they are ambushed by the Makamou, Kappa. An Oni in training named Asumu battles the monster until Decade uses Kamen Rider Kabuto's powers to destroy it. On learning he is Hibiki's pupil, Tsukasa has Asumu bring him to his mentor. Upon seeing Tsukasa, Hibiki, who is shirking off from his duties as an Oni, believes him to be the legendary Ongekidō Grand Master.
Meanwhile, Zanki slays a band of Bakeneko as Ibuki arrives to take them out as well. But when the last Bakeneko escapes them, Decade destroys it with the two groups as witness. Tsukasa visits Ibuki's school afterwads and talks with Ibuki and Akira about three special scrolls. Meanwhile, after failing to rob Hibiki as he takes his leave, Daiki is forced into becoming Asumu's mentor. Like Tsukasa, Daiki learns of the three scrolls of the Oni classes, and he convinces Asumu to become Hibiki's pupil again, before taking his leave to Zanki's dojo where he offers a proposition. Returning to find Hibiki and Asumu attacked by a Tengu, Kuuga attempts to battle the Makamou. At the same time, Natsumi encounters Narutaki as he reveals Tsukasa's actions actually doomed the worlds rather than saved them.
When Kuuga is nearly killed, Hibiki assumes his Oni form to destroy the Tengu before he suddenly transforms into the monstrous Gyuki. While this occurs, the Ibuki School and Tsukasa receive a challenge from Zanki's School and Daiki with the scrolls on the line. With them representing the two Oni schools, Decade and Diend do battle. But once Diend reveals his intentions to steal both scrolls, he summons Momotaros who attacks the Oni Kamen Riders until Gyuki storms in and overwhelms the Oni. The episode ends with Decade using Ryuki's powers to take on the Makamou.
Thoughts
Second to last episode for now it is quite as interesting as our primary aslo doubles as one of the villains to be face which is a nice change of pace. I liked seeing the three school being at odds with each other as it gave a fresh dynamic. Quite the fun episode isn't it.
Rating: 8/10: Fun episode with an interesting concept.
Episode 19: "Ending Journey"
Synopsis
Using Ryuki's powers, Decade battles Gyuki while Ibuki and Zanki argue whose fault this was. When Akira and Todoroki join the fray in their Oni forms to save Asumu as he tries to protect them, with Decade joining them by using Den-O's Ax Form, they manage to defeat Gyuki. He runs off before regressing to Hibiki, and Yusuke and Natsumi find him shortly after.
Later that night, after talking to Asumu, Akira and Todoroki confront their mentors to put aside their differences, with Tsukasa supporting them. Ibuki and Zanki promote them to the role of new teachers of their respective schools. Meanwhile, Hibiki reveals the nature of Gyuki to Yusuke and Natsumi as Daiki arrives to claim the last scroll. Hibiki stops him and gives Daiki his Onsa to give to Asumu with a final request. The next day, after suffering a Narutaki-induced vision of the future resulting from their actions, Natsumi finds Daiki, who uses Asumu as his cover to steal the final scroll. But as Tsukasa arrives, Daiki evokes Hibiki's final change into Gyuki to Asumu's horror, and the thief leaves them.
After learning the secret of the three scrolls to be all schools as one, Daiki returns to give Asumu the Onsa. Asumu becomes Kamen Rider Hibiki in order to honor his mentor's final request: slay the Makamou to free Hibiki's soul. However, Narutaki arrives on a giant Bakegani (summoned with the help of Kamen Rider Ouja), with Todoroki and Amaki showing up shortly after. Once Diend destroys the scrolls, revealing that the true Ongekidō is all three styles in harmony, Decade regains Hibiki's powers. Decade, Diend, and the Oni all finish the Makamou off together. After Asumu and company thank Daiki for uniting the schools, Tsukasa and company return to Natsumi's world with Natsumi a bit worried.
Thoughts
Our final episode for this part of the review and we end on a high note with great character moments and a great ending fight. Instead of Tsukasa, Daiki gets a more prominent here as he helps Asamu. Asamu becoming was a highlight as while he saw himself as useless, he had potential and rose to the occassion.
Rating: 9/10: A great episode and a great way to end our fist saga.
Thoughts so far
Kamen Rider Decade is shockingly good. The story for the first arc is simple and effective. The characters are all fun and they work each other well. Tsukasa is good protagonist and is probably my favorite Rider protagonist as of now and favorite protagonist out of all the shows I've reviewed as despite being a dick, he is still good at heart. Natsumi is good enough female lead and is great counter to Tsukasa's more dickishness with her kindness. Yusuke is kind of there, he really doesn't do a lot despite being a Rider, but when he is used, I think that's were he is at his best. Daiki is a good enough secondary Rider and serves as a great wild card as you never know if he is or isn't going to help Tsukasa and the others. Narutaki is not really a good villain as he sometimes does something like in world Faiz or Hibiki by trying to kill Tsukasa, or just warns other Riders of Tsukasa and then just does nothing to make sure it succeeds. Hopefully, he actually does something or we get a better antagonist. Visually speaking, this the best show so far as everything is HD and that helps it age better visually compared to previous shows I've reviewed. Music wise, this is probably the best so far with songs like Journey through the Decade and Ride the Wind being good songs. Fight wise, this the best of all the shows so far as they are well choreographed and the use of cgi helps amplify the fights with things like the explosions, even if it looks outdated. Overall, I think Kamen Rider Decade is a fun show and so far, 19 episodes and a movie in, I am enjoying my time with what is essentially my first Rider series that I never finished. My rating as of now ranges from a high 8/10 to a low 9/10 but I wonder if that will change with later episodes.
Ranking of the arcs from favorite to least favorite:
Blade Arc (Favorite)
Kabuto Arc
Den-O Arc
Hibiki Arc
Ryuki Arc
Kuuga Arc
Agito Arc
Kiva Arc
Faiz Arc (Least favorite)
Let's continue this journey through the Decade with part 2.