#yoroiden

[samuraitroopersfanzine]

Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers Episode 5 on Crunchyroll

On time again, and boy is it a doozy of an episode.

[travellingmonk]

This is part of a little art project I made. Basically, you start out with a bunch of different pieces of pictures. It's up to you to choose which ones you want to use, no matter how serious or silly the picture ends up looking. From there, you color it, tape or glue it together, and enjoy the finished picture! For this one, the choice was to use an old timey battle beaten Japanese armor wearing body resting against a tree trunk. It WAS going to be all peaceful and calm... until my muses decides 'LET'S MAKE IT SILLY! MUWAHAHAHA!!!'

Of course, what good is a dj / disc jockey if they're not preforming for an audience, right?

This is just one tiny part of a project I made. Also, if you want something YST to color for yourself, keep reading!

Name - YST Mix & Match

What da heck is it about? - Print out a set of pictures, select the ones you want to use, cut them out, color them, then glue or tape them together. For added silliness or seriousness, you can draw in the eyes and mouth however you want.

Color them for yourself! - Want to color this one for yourself? Change out what character is in what picture? Change out what clothes they're wearing? Here's the free sample pack you can download, print, and color however you want! - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ny3JW25FSyFaCxLqUNARByGT2wf85b1I/view

If that's not enough for you, then you can find more options at these other locations - Deviantart.com/YST-Game-Maker/gallery Discord.gg/FA3kZtj8PH Ko-Fi.com/DSProductions

Thanks for your interest!

[samuraitroopersfanzine]

Opening video of Yoroiden Shin Den Samurai Troopers released

Song, YOAKE, is by "blank paper".

Did you watch it? If no, watch it! If yes, read on!

Interestingly, we see Ryusei donning the new Korin Senkou armor despite Shion's character card being released before Ryusei's and Shion's says he bears it.

Additional detail to note is when Ryusei wears the Senkou armor, we can see the insignia of the Rekka armor (Takeda family crest) on the shoulders of Senkou, but they are absent in Shion's character card.

Did you also catch Musashi surfing on his shield?

I also really like the callbacks to the original. It gives me a lot of hope that the show will have a good balance between new and old. Plus, having the original armor designer on the team, Hideo Okamoto, would probably push for paying proper respect to the original show.

What else caught your eye in the video? What do you think of the song?

Sadly, still no news yet on streaming services outside of Japan. With less than a week to go, hopefully something will come up soon.

[samuraitroopersfanzine]

More Ken Mizuki merch!

In celebration of Ken Mizuki and Kaim Tachibana's new Samurai Troopers art book being released on March 12, 2026, a pop-up shop and exhibition opened up at Shosen Book Tower. The event runs from March 25, 2026 – April 12, 2026.

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Here's an ad for the art book:

The art book is available to order now through Amazon Japan and other Japanese stores. Check the source link above and scroll to the bottom to find links to the stores. Alternatively, the book is already showing up on sites like Yahoo Japan Auctions and Mercari Japan.

And here are some pics taken by fans of the exhibition!

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I didn't post about this before because the pop up shop merch had appeared to be for visitors to Shosen Book Tower, but thankfully the items are available for preorder online! Image description provided after the image.

Starting at the top left: four different gold primagraphy (reproduction illustration prints that have gold foil on them), sold individually for 38,500 yen (~$242.40), and measuring 424mm x 348mm (~16.7in x 13.7in). I think it comes with an aluminum frame, matte board, and glass.

Top left illustration is a collage of five original samurai troopers' head wearing their helmets amidst cherry blossoms.

Top right illustration is of the five original troopers wearing their bomber jackets from the end of the tv series amongst cherry blossoms.

Bottom left illustration has all five original troopers wearing white kimono, and are posing with their weapons on a stage with a screen painted with a purple sky and clouds behind them.

Bottom right illustration shows all 5 troopers wearing traditional color-coded samurai armor and wielding traditional samurai weapons that correspond to their armors' weapons.

Top right: six different reproduction prints on canvas, sold individually for 27,500 yen (~$173.10), and measuring 530mm x 410mm (~20.9in x 16.2in).

Top left column illustration is of Seiji wearing a black undershirt with an open white collared shirt on top. He's tucking some of his hair behind his ear. There's a wooden fence or wall behind him.

Bottom left column features Touma wearing a black turtleneck with an open blue blazer. He's adjusting the blazer. Behind him is a large pot with flowers, a curtain, and an empty antique picture frame.

Middle column is an illustration of the four mashou and kayura. Each character is rendered as a close up of parts of their faces and bare upper shoulders.

Top of right column shows all 5 troopers wearing traditional color-coded samurai armor and wielding traditional samurai weapons that correspond to their armors' weapons.

Middle of right column shows all five original troopers wearing casual clothes as they stand relaxed with a blue sky behind them.

Bottom of right column appears to be a companion piece to the previously described illustration. The five troopers are wearing the same outfits, but this time their arrangement is different.

Next merch items, second row left, are four different portrait illustrations, sold individually for 2,750 yen (~$17.30), measuring 212mm x 158mm (~8.4in x 6.3in), and comes with a peach-colored matte frame.

Top row left illustration is of Touma wearing a black turtleneck. His left hand partially covers his face. There large white flowers and stems in the foreground.

Top row right image is a companion piece to the previously described one, but features Seiji also wearing a black long-sleeve shirt. He's holding five white lilies.

Bottom row left is a close up of Ryo's face. He's wearing a white collared shirt and is looking back as if we'd just caught up to him and tapped his shoulder.

Bottom row right features an overhead view of all five original troopers wearing heavy coats. There are red and green wreaths above them. They are looking up at the snow that's just started to fall.

(I apologize, but I don't think I can keep describing each image for each merch item. This post will get too long. orz )

The next merch item, second row right, are four acrylic prism panels with different illustrations printed on them, sold individually for 13,200 yen (~$83.10), and measuring 297mm x 210mm (~11.7in x 8.3in). There are two screw holes and screws included.

Next merch, third row left, are four clear files with different illustrations on the front and backs. They are sold individually for 550 yen (~$3.50) and measure 310mm x 220mm (~12.2in x 8.7in).

Next merch, third row right, is two cotton frill drawstring bags. One is blue and features an illustration of Touma while the other is a light green with an illustration of Seiji. They are sold individually for 1,650 yen (~$10.40) and measure 160mm x 100mm (~6.3in x 4in).

Fourth row left is two sets of five postcards. The sets feature different illustrations on each of the five postcards. A set of five costs 1,650 yen (~$10.40) and is sized A6. Image below shows one of the 5 sets.

Fourth row right is one set of ten postcards featuring illustrations of the new generation samurai troopers. Each postcard features one new trooper wearing school uniforms. Five of the illustrations are drawn by Ken Mizuki while the other five are drawn by Kaim Tachibana. A set of ten costs 3,300 yen (~$20.80) and is sized A6.

Bottom row left is five 57mm (~2.25in) can badge (button) designs, sold individually in a blind box for 550 yen (~$3.50) or as a complete set for 2,750 yen (~$17.30). They have an illustration featuring a close up of one of each of the original troopers.

Bottom row right is ten 57mm (~2.25in) can badge (button) designs, sold individually in a blind box for 550 yen (~$3.50) or as a complete set for 5,500 yen (~$34.70). They have an illustration featuring a close up of one of each of the new troopers. Five of the illustrations are drawn by Ken Mizuki while the other Five are drawn by Kaim Tachibana. Image below shows all ten can badge designs with Ken Mizuki's illustrations on the top row while Kaim Tachibana's are the bottom row.

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Here's the link to the official Shosen Book Tower page (there's a Zen Market pop up that appears at the bottom for international shoppers).

Phew. I'm going to pause here. There's more merch to mention, but I need a breather (and don't want this post to go on forever 😅 ).

[samuraitroopersfanzine]

YSST callbacks and easter eggs 1/?

Image-heavy post incoming! I focused on YSST episode 1 for this, so if you haven't seen it yet, this may contain spoilers for you.

While watching the new Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers, I kept noticing all the callbacks and references that they were making to the original show's material, as well as possible other pop media of the era.

Like this neat callback right at the beginning of the first episode:

(note: I sped up the YSST sequence in an attempt to reduce the file size for web; sorry it doesn't quite line up).

Does it look familiar? It's the scene from the opening of season 1 of Yoroiden Samurai Troopers!

Then, in both YST and YSST, the first battle is fought by Shinjuku Station, specifically by the giant TV screen at Studio "ALAT" (in real life, it's Studio ALTA). It's also featured in YSST's opening, when Musashi is coming up the escalator and turning the corner (the arrow on the real life image points to the mirrored pillar that Musashi walks past).

Next, Gai's jumping attack looks similar to the youja soldier's entrance. Also, Gai's scythe's blade is the same design as Shuten's/Anubis's (no pics bc this is already a lot of images, sorry!).

Here's another first-episode-to-first-episode callback: the infamous ankle jump shot.

And then this fun one:

When I saw all these the first time, I couldn't help but smile. It really felt like a love letter to the original show.

I'm sure there's more, but that's all for this post! Let me know if you noticed any others from the first episode.

[samuraitroopersfanzine]

New characters, air date, and other info revealed!

First up, new trailer!

Here's some of the goodies we get from it:

First episode is scheduled to air on January 6th, 2026! The series is split into 2 cours, or 2 seasons, with episodes airing weekly on Tuesdays. No news yet on which streaming service will have it outside of Japan (guesses include Crunchyroll and Netflix).

The opening song, YOAKE, is performed by blank paper, and the ending song, POWER, is sung by ONE OR EIGHT. Both songs will be available online on January 7th, 2026. source

The trailer gives us more glimpses of the antagonists, and some of them have had their information released.

Here's Ramaga, apparently he's the new big bad guy.

From the looks of the trailer, there are 10 new "warlords" who work for Ramaga, but we have information for only 5 of them. Their armors appear to be animal themed.

Sasuke appears to be the leader of the 10 warriors under Ramaga. And yes, your eyes do not deceive you, his armor is feline-themed and he has a tail. According to rough translations of his info, "he has a strong sense of responsibility, and values his friends. He's a master of the use of explosive magic."

Saizo's information roughly says, "his words and actions are polite. He wields a sword that is almost the same height as him." There was more to his info, but the translation didn't make sense to me.

Next is Kamanosuke. "A cheerful person who likes to tease others by tacking on 'chi' to their names. He has a tricky fighting style that uses a sickle on a chain." I don't know about you, but the face they chose for his promotional image doesn't quite say "cheerful" to me. 😆

Seikai Nyudo serves Ramaga with his brother, Isa Nyudo. Seikai is "affectionate and righteous. He's has the best physique of the 10 warriors (I guess this means he's the strongest?). He's a nimble fighter despite using a large broadsword.

Isa Nyudo is Seikai Nyudo's younger brother. He admires and follows his older brother. He fights with a huge kendama (a traditional Japanese skill toy that is similar to the classic cup-and-ball game where the goal is to catch the ball that's attached by string to the handle's spike).

We also get two new protagonists.

Ryusei Oda's information says he's works at the Defense Special Incident Countermeasures Headquarters, which is more commonly known as DST. He's in charge of scouting and training the next generation of troopers. He's very reliable and is seen as an older brother figure by most of the other character.

Lastly, we get Mirei Aragaki. A young woman researcher who is affiliated with DST. She's a self-proclaimed scientist, assistant commander, and heroine.

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That's not all! There'll be a special advanced screening of the first 3 episodes for those attending an event in Japan on December 23, 2025. Two of the new characters' VAs will talk with the audience afterwards. Tickets are open lottery and then become first-come-first-serve for 3500yen. Attendees will get an exclusive postcard. source

I think the below image is the design for the postcard that they will receive.

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Fun note about this image is that it's a callback to one of the promotional pieces done for the original series!

I'm really hopeful about the sequel because of how much homage they're paying to the original.

But I'm also keeping in mind that both shows are products of their time. Based on the bits from the various trailers, the new one follows more modern trends with characters having exaggerated expressions, more humorous scenes, and a lighter aspect to it. One downside I am wary of is that Mirai's design definitely smells of needing to have an eye candy female character amongst the cast, which was something I liked not having in the original. Nasutei and Kayura, while attractive, were not designed to be eye candy.

With just a few more weeks until we get the first episode, I'd love to hear your predictions or wishes for what may come.

[samuraitroopersfanzine]

More Ken Mizuki Merch Part 2

Ok. So here's the follow-up to the previous post. The pop up shop closed on April 12. But those folks who were lucky enough to go and purchase items would be entered into a lottery for a chance to win various prizes.

The items are ranked S, A, B, and "End". The S-tier prize, awarded to 2 people, is a copy of an illustration featuring Seiji and Touma and is signed by both Kaim Tachibana and Ken Mizuki. The A-tier prize, awarded to 5 people, is a copy of the art book signed by both artists. The B-tier prize, awarded to 100 people, is a can badge/button featuring an illustration of the 5 troopers, drawn in chibi style, napping around Byakuen. Final prize is a random drawing of 6 different stickers, 5 of the stickers feature one of each trooper, while the last sticker uses the same illustration as the can badge. source

Reminder: the last day to order any items that appeared in the pop up shop is May 6, 2026. Items will ship late June.

The next bit of Ken Mizuki-related merch announced was a 5 CD set rereleasing the background music from the original series. It collects Gun Rou Hen, Sei Ran Hen, I Jin Hen, Kikoutei Densetsu OVA Soundtrack, and Hana (the Message OVA soundtrack).

It was released on March 25, 2026. For those who preordered, there were bonus items included based on which store the set was purchased from. source

A-on STORE: Clear jacket

Amazon.co.jp: Mega Jacket

Seven Net Shopping: Acrylic Carabiner Type

Rakuten Books: Acrylic Keychain

The set is still available at various stores online.

All righty, I think that gets me caught up to all the goods that have been announced so far.

If you like all the news and updates I’ve been posting and would like to show some support, you can via Ko-Fi! <3

[samuraitroopersfanzine]

I'm sort of confused on something: The original team couldn't've beaten Talpa/Arago without the Inferno Armor, but in both of the shots in eps 1 & 2 of the og show's callback, the Inferno Armor hasn't been shown. Did the writers just forget, or is it deliberate?

Ooh, good question. To avoid possible spoilers for people who are still catching up on the new show, I'll answer underneath a Keep Reading break.

First, lemme put in a big disclaimer that everything I write is theory only. I don't have any connection with Bandai. I'm just a fan looking at what we've been given so far.

Short answer: I think it's deliberate.

Long answer:

I highly doubt the writers forgot about it. Just take a look at Gai's armor. Notice anything familiar about its design?

Here's Kikoutei for comparison.

The mask, visor, and 3-pointed piece above the visor are all reminiscent of Kikoutei (arguably the breastplate too).

Additionally, ever since its introduction, Kikoutei has been sought after by pretty much everyone the troopers encountered for various reasons — Saranbou wanted it to rule the Youjakai, Kenbukyuo wanted it to defeat Arago, Arago wanted it so he could rule both worlds, Mukala wanted Ryo to summon it to fight and see which armor was stronger, and Suzunagi wanted Ryo to revive it to destroy the world. It's the strongest armor in the show.

I wouldn't be surprised if this theme returned. What wannabe-world-ruler wouldn't want to get their hands on it?

So why leave it out?

Could be for a variety of reasons. I think the writers' reasons probably were to build suspense with the old fandom who are wondering where it is, and to keep it a surprise for new audiences who are unfamiliar with its existence (possibly mirroring the original show's introduction of it).

There's also the cultural aspect to consider. Japan is known for its people's focus on the group rather than the individual. The government/DST promoting the group defeating Arago instead of just the bearer of Kikoutei fits into that. Not to mention that it's probably easier to get more applicants for a spot on the team rather than a solo fighter.

As for Nasutei, I think she might've not told the government about it because it's too powerful a weapon. She had to tell them something though, since they were perceiving the images in the sky of the armor world as a threat/challenge and wanted to retaliate.

Additionally, in the Message OVAs, I thought it seemed like Nasutei didn't know if Kikoutei was still available to be summoned since the troopers' armors were gone — at the end of Kikouteiden, the two armors vanished (supposedly went dormant), not destroyed like the troopers' armors. I could be misremembering though — it's been a while since I've watched the OVAs.

According to Badamon, Kikoutei is older than the troopers' armors; a separate force that existed before time, which cannot be destroyed like Arago and the armors that came from him. If I were in Naustei's boots, I wouldn't want any government to have any access to Kikoutei or even the temptation of it.

Again, this is all speculation. We are only 2 episodes into the new sequel after all. I could be way wrong since there's so little to go off of, but it's fun to theorize with what we've got.