The anime series "Yoroi Shinden Samurai Troopers," which has been airing in two split cours since January 6, 2026, reached its first cour finale with a legendary surprise: the appearance of the original 1988 Samurai Troopers in Episode 12!
To celebrate this crossover, original cast members Hirofumi Nojima, Ryotaro Okiayu, Nozomu Sasaki, and Tomohiro Nishimura have shared special commemorative comments, while fans look ahead to the series' return in July 2026 for the second cour. Along with the return date, a new teaser PV and a special illustration by main character designer Yuhei Murota have been released to bridge the gap between seasons.
<The following content is quoted from the official announcement>
Episode 12 Surprise: Original SamuraiTroopers Return with Special Cast Messages
The legendary warriors who graced our screens in Episode 12 are voiced by the original icons: Hirofumi Nojima (as Toma Hashiba), Ryotaro Okiayu (as Seiji Date), Nozomu Sasaki (as Shin Mouri), and Tomohiro Nishimura (as Shu Layfang). Here are their heartfelt messages regarding their return to these iconic roles!
Toma Hashiba / Toma of the Heavens
One of the original Samurai Troopers possessing the heart of "Wisdom" (Chi). He activates the Yoroi Gear of the Skies, "Tenku" (Heavens).
CV: Hirofumi Nojima
▼ Message
"When I first heard the title of the project, I actually shouted out loud because of the nostalgia. To think that I would be playing Toma again was even more of a surprise. I felt an immense amount of pressure and responsibility, but thanks to my wonderful senior cast members, I feel like I was able to push through!"
Seiji Date / Seiji of the Halo
One of the original Samurai Troopers possessing the heart of "Courtesy" (Rei). He activates the Yoroi Gear of Light, "Kourin" (Halo).
CV: Ryotaro Okiayu
▼ Message:
"I’ll be taking on the role of Seiji Date, also known as Seiji of the Halo. Since we’re appearing in the latter half of the series, it’s still a mystery just how much we’ll be involved in the story, but I hope you look forward to it. I wonder if the 'Armor' will race through my heart too? Also, I’m really hoping for some plastic models (Gunpla style!) of the veteran team’s Yoroi Gear♪"
Shin Mouri / Shin of the Torrent
One of the original Samurai Troopers possessing the heart of "Trust" (Shin). He activates the Yoroi Gear of Water, "Suiko" (Torrent).
CV: Nozomu Sasaki
▼ Message:
"Appearing in 'Yoroi Shin Den' feels both nostalgic and fresh. As the 'Armor' races through my heart, so many memories come flooding back. I’m just filled with happiness to be able to say 'We finally meet again' to both Shin Mouri and all the fans!"
Shu Layfang / Shu of the Hardrock
One of the original Samurai Troopers possessing the heart of "Justice" (Gi). He activates the Yoroi Gear of Earth, "Kongo" (Hardrock/Stone).
CV: Tomohiro Nishimura
▼ Comment:
"The villains this time around are all so cool. Everyone is such a talented actor that I actually learned a lot from them. As for the older version of Shu... well, he’s there... I guess that’s the feeling. He’s wearing a turban so you can't really tell, but is Shu’s hair doing okay under there?"
Ryo Sanada / Ryo of the Wildfire (Previously Released Comment)
The central figure of the original Samurai Troopers who possesses the heart of "Benevolence" (Jin). He activates the Yoroi Gear of Flame, "Rekka" (Wildfire). Alongside Nasty, he serves as an instructor at the DST to train the next generation of Troopers in preparation for the return of the Nether World (Youja).
He remains an active Samurai Trooper himself and can arm himself for battle in case of an emergency.
CV: Takeshi Kusao
▼ Message:
"Whenever a 'sequel' or 'revival' is made, there will always be a mix of opinions. However, being able to involve myself in the life of Ryo Sanada again in this modern Reiwa era is truly moving. I approached the recording with a renewed sense of focus and determination.The story might only depict a fraction of these characters' lives, but the entire cast and staff have poured their maximum passion and energy into this. Please look forward to the story until the very last scene!"
Episode 12: New Stills & Setting Details Revealed
【Scene Cuts】
【New Concept Art】
■ Inferno Armor (Kikoutei)
The ultimate white armor that manifests when the hearts of the five original Samurai Troopers become one.
Cour 2 Release Date Confirmed: Watch the New Special Teaser PV
The second cour of the TV anime "Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers" is officially set to premiere in July 2026!
Check out the new teaser PV featuring fresh cuts from the upcoming episodes! The Human World, the Nether World (Youja-kai), and the Celestial World (Tendo-kai)... what are their respective goals? Keep your eyes on the new battles awaiting the Samurai Troopers.
Watch the 2nd Cour PV
New Commemorative Art from Character Designer Yuhei Murota!
To show appreciation for the first cour and celebrate the July premiere of the second cour, main character designer Yuhei Murota has released a special illustration! The art features a smiling Kai... a smile that feels all the more heartbreaking after watching the events of Episode 12.
"Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers" Series Information
Synopsis
When the ancient seal on the Netherworld—the realm that once plunged humanity into terror—is finally shattered, a legion of demon soldiers begins its relentless invasion.
Standing between mankind and total annihilation are five young warriors. Their name: The Samurai Troopers!! >A new chapter in their legend begins now!
Cast
Gai: Hiiro Ishibashi
Kaito Uesugi: Junya Enoki
Musashi Hojo: Ayumu Murase
Yamato Hojo: Shunsuke Takeuchi
Shion Ishida: Kentaro Kumagai
Ryusei Oda: Toshiki Masuda
Mirei Aragaki: Lynn
Rashinga: Katsuyuki Konishi
Sasuke: Takuya Sato
Saizo: Kosuke Toriumi
Kamanosuke: Takuma Terashima
Seikai Nyudo: Tomokazu Sugita
Isa Nyudo: Kohei Amasaki
Nezu: Kenichi Suzumura
Anayama: Chiharu Sawashiro
Unno: Ryota Takeuchi
Kakei: Daichi Endo
Mochizuki: Toshiki Kumagai
(C)SUNRISE
© Animate Times
*Some parts of this text have been translated using machine translation
