by The long-awaited winter anime Yoroi Shinden Samurai Troopers is finally here. As the first official sequel in approximately 38 years to the legendary 1988 series Yoroiden Samurai Troopers, this brand-new title will begin airing on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Ahead of its premiere, the synopsis and preview cuts for Episode 1, titled “Furorougu,” have been released, giving fans their first real look at this new era of Samurai Troopers.
Blending nostalgia with modern storytelling, Yoroi Shinden Samurai Troopers reintroduces the iconic concept of armored warriors while pushing the franchise into bold new territory.
What Is “Yoroi Shinden Samurai Troopers”? (Beginner-Friendly Overview)
The original Yoroiden Samurai Troopers, produced by Sunrise and broadcast from April 1988 to March 1989, followed five boys chosen by fate to don mystical armor known as Yoroi Gear. Guided by the virtues of benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, and faith, they fought against the demon emperor Arago and his fearsome Yōja army.
The franchise later expanded with three OVAs—Gaiden, Legend of the Shining Emperor, and Message—as well as a manga adaptation serialized in Comic Bonbon. For decades, fans believed the story had reached its conclusion.
Now, Yoroi Shinden Samurai Troopers revives the series with a completely original story, set in present-day Shinjuku, and designed to welcome both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
A Modern Setting with a Darker Twist
Unlike the original series, which portrayed its heroes as destined warriors from the very beginning, the new anime introduces a more grounded and complex premise.
Story Setup (Episode 1: “Furorougu”)
Thirty-five years have passed since the last invasion from the demon world. To prepare for a possible return, the government has established the Defense Special Task Force (DST), an organization dedicated to strengthening national defenses and training a new generation of warriors.
Then, without warning, a gate connecting the demon world and the human world opens once again in Shinjuku.
Hojo Musashi and the other current DST-trained Samurai Troopers rush to confront the threat. However, despite their training and resolve, they are overwhelmed by the sheer power and cruelty of the invading demons. Humanity once again stands on the brink of collapse.
Episode 1 sets the tone for the series: intense, dramatic, and far more morally complex than before.
Production Staff and Creative Direction
The sequel is produced by SUNRISE Studios (Bandai Namco Filmworks) and directed by Yoichi Fujita, known for his work on Gintama and Mr. Osomatsu. His involvement signals a balance of serious action, character-driven drama, and sharp emotional beats.
Key Staff Highlights
- Original Concept: Hajime Yatate
- Director: Yoichi Fujita
- Series Composition & Script: Shogo Muto
- Main Character Design: Yuhei Murota
- Villain Character Design: Tsukasa Kotobuki
- Original Yoroi Gear Design: Hideo Okamoto
- Animation Yoroi Gear Design: Takuya Suzuki
This experienced team ensures that the spirit of the original series is respected while modern animation techniques and storytelling elevate the sequel.
Meet the New Generation of Samurai Troopers
The new series introduces five young heroes, each with a distinct personality and fighting style:
- Gai (Protagonist): A mysterious boy with the potential to become a true Samurai Trooper
- Kaito Uesugi: Voiced by Junya Enoki
- Musashi Hojo: Voiced by Ayumu Murase
- Yamato Hojo: Voiced by Shunsuke Takeuchi
- Shion Ishida: Voiced by Kentaro Kumagai
Together, they form a new team that reflects the uncertainties and conflicts of a modern world—far removed from the clear-cut heroism of the past.
Special Newspaper Distribution Campaign
To celebrate the broadcast of Episode 1, a special “Hochi Shimbun × Samurai Troopers” extra edition will be distributed for free in major anime districts.
Distribution Schedule
- January 9, 2026 (Friday)
- Shinjuku: 12:30–14:00 (near Southeast Exit Plaza)
- Akihabara: 15:00–17:30 (near Yodobashi Camera Exit)
- January 12, 2026 (Monday, National Holiday)
- Osaka (Nipponbashi Ota Road): 13:00–17:00
Note: Distribution is first-come, first-served and may end once supplies run out.
Broadcast & Streaming Information
TV Broadcast
- TOKYO MX: Every Tuesday from 23:30
- Kansai TV: Every Tuesday from 25:19
- BS11: Every Wednesday from 24:00
Fastest Streaming (Unlimited)
- From January 6, 2026 (Tue) at 24:00
- U-NEXT, Animehodai, d Anime Store
General Streaming
- From January 10, 2026 (Sat) at 0:00
- ABEMA, Prime Video, FOD Premium, DMM TV, Bandai Channel, Lemino, and more
Free catch-up streaming will also be available on TVer, ABEMA, and Niconico platforms.
Why This Sequel Matters
Yoroi Shinden Samurai Troopers is more than a revival it’s a re-examination of heroism across generations. By placing its story in a modern city and questioning what it truly means to protect humanity, the anime offers:
- Nostalgia for longtime fans
- A fresh entry point for new viewers
- Deeper themes of responsibility, sacrifice, and identity
As the first episode begins, the stage is set for an epic clash between past and present.
The legend returns armored, reimagined, and ready for a new battle.
