Genres: Action, Historical, Martial Arts, Supernatural

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Japan’s Sengoku Period has spawned many tales. The story of Sanada Yukimura and Date Masamune form the basis for this adaptation of the PS2 title Devil Kings. During this period of time, the daimyo Oda Nobunaga conquered a large portion of Japan. In this retelling, Oda Nobunaga is shown as an evil, near-supernatural entity whose followers are attempting to sway the course of the war surrounding them.

Takeda Shingen has sent his forces to defeat Uesugi Kenshin. He directs this right hand, Sanada Yukimura, to cross a group led by Date Masamune. The battle between Date Masamune and Sanada Yukimura consumes the field. Date Masamune, known as the One-Eyed Dragon, wields up to 6 katanas in combat. Sanada Yukimura, known as the Tiger of Kai, wields two spears in his battles. The two part ways without a conclusion due to the intervention of one of Date Masamune’s men.

In the second episode, Takeda Shingen moves on Imagawa Yoshimoto. This leads to another epic battle between the Dragon and Tiger. The prize? Imagawa Yoshimoto’s head on a pike. Oda Nobunaga has other plans, and his minions intercept Imagawa Yoshimoto during his escape. Oda Nobunaga’s final act in the episode is to kill Yoshimoto himself, unseating everyone’s plans.

Not being a history buff, I found nothing lacking in this series’ interpretation. Hard core period-genre fans may take issues with various elements in the story (does anyone else thing Date’s saddle looks like a motorcycle?)

Overall Hook Rating: B

Tags: action, anime, historical, martial arts, supernatural