On July 27, 2024, viewers were captivated by the fourth episode of The Elusive Samurai. This installment featured an intense archery competition between Hojo Tokiyuki and Sadamune Ogasawara, delivering a gripping and intricate storyline. The episode also explored political intrigue through Takauji’s meeting with Emperor Godaigo, showcased the value of personal loyalty as retainers were rewarded, and highlighted the growth of the protagonist as Tokiyuki honed his archery skills.
Despite the episode’s attempt to balance humor and drama, there are moments where the visual quality and comedic elements fall short. However, the character development of Tokiyuki and the intense archery duel still manage to captivate, making this particular installment a standout chapter in the series.
The Elusive Samurai: Episode 4 Recap
In the fourth installment of The Elusive Samurai, Ashikaga Takauji pays a visit to Emperor Godaigo, who commends Takauji for his deeds in Kamakura and bestows him with a character from his name. The Emperor also offers Takauji a new position in the imperial court. However, Takauji humbly declines and requests that his loyal retainers be granted the positions instead.
As time passed, Moronao, steward of Takauji, voiced his worries about Takauji’s dwindling compassion. However, Takauji assured him that their main priority should be to assist Godaigo. Amidst their conversation, a rare sight of Takauji’s eye shows multiple pupils within it. While on a hunting trip, Takauji talks with a retainer who expresses gratitude for being recommended as governor of Shinano. This retainer was the first to betray Tokiyuki’s family.
Takauji is conscious of Yorishige’s backing of Tokiyuki and directs his associate Sadamune to keep a close eye on Yorishige. Sadamune pledges to get rid of them all. In the meantime, Tokiyuki struggles to break through an obstruction, causing Yorishige to caution that focusing on strength training could potentially diminish his agility.
Tokiyuki demonstrates his impressive abilities in archery, reflecting on his previous encounters. Yorishige proposes utilizing these skills for strategic evasive maneuvers. Upon learning of Sadamune’s imminent arrival, Yorishige directs Tokiyuki and the rest of the group to conceal themselves. Sadamune, determined to emerge victorious in the dog-shooting competition at Suwa Grand Shrine, asserts that such a triumph will further his aspirations.
On the day of the competition, Shizuku compliments Tokiyuki, who is reminded to use a fake name. Unexpectedly, Sadamune joins the competition and emphasizes its importance to Shinano, hoping to make the event more exciting. He then proposes a wager: if he wins, he will search for members of the Hojo clan in Suwa homes, but if they win, he will give up the search.
Chojumaru, also known as Hojo Tokiyuki, bravely takes on the challenge. With Yorishige’s advice fresh in his mind, he skillfully accumulates points and dodges Sadamune’s attacks during the duel. Despite sustaining a blow to the head, Tokiyuki’s enthusiasm only increases as he finds the challenge thrilling. The episode ends with Tokiyuki feeling empowered and ready to face whatever challenges come his way.
The Elusive Samurai Episode 4: The Fleeing Demon King Review
Just as the saying goes, every good thing must come to an end, and unfortunately, not all impressive visuals can sustain their magnificence. This sentiment deeply resonates with numerous viewers of The Elusive Samurai, who were left disappointed after watching this episode. The visuals in the dog-shooting competition bore a striking resemblance to those found in a poorly made anime video game, lacking the consistency and quality that fans have come to expect.
Despite occasional moments of polish, they were inconsistent. Sadamune’s comedic actions and mannerisms did not improve the show. In fact, his exaggerated reactions and physical quirks only served to worsen the hit-or-miss comedy involving Yorishige, taking away from the seriousness of the situation at the Grand Suwa Shrine.
Despite the serious issues at hand, Tokiyuki’s humor clashed with the tone, resulting in a less impactful and tense atmosphere. Nevertheless, he continues to be a fascinating protagonist. As Yorishige observed in the episode, Tokiyuki’s ability to acknowledge his enemy’s distinctive traits is praiseworthy. Moreover, his response to his bloodied skull was a welcome change of pace.
Fortunately, there is a possibility that Tokiyuki will acquire proficient swordsmanship abilities after this mini-arc, ensuring that The Elusive Samurai stays true to its title. All in all, this was a gratifying episode.
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