| Tsutenkaku Samurai | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Race: | Human(?) |
| Gender: | Male |
| Debut: | Ninja Gaiden (Master System) |
The Tsutenkaku Samurai is the third boss in Ninja Gaiden (Master System), who Ryu battles against at his home within Osaka. He is also referred to as the Kendo Samurai.
Appearance[]
He is dressed in traditional samurai garb.
Abilities and Powers[]
The Tsutenkaku Samurai has no supernatural powers. However, being skilled at Kenjutsu (剣術), the original Japanese swordsmanship, makes up for that. Considering the respect that the Samurai holds for Ryu, what are the possibilities that he may be holding back on his true abilities?
History[]
Not much is known about the Tsutenkaku Samurai. Despite never actually meeting before, various dialogue clearly shows that there is a certain level of familiarity, honor, and respect between him and the Dragon Ninja. Ryu even regards him as "an honorable swordsman," as the Samurai's Daughter addresses Ryu as "master" in return.
Despite his proficiency at swordsmanship, the respected samurai fails in his attempt to kill Ryu. Respectfully acknowledging the power of the Dragon Ninja's Lineage, while honorably accepting defeat, the samurai requests that Ryu rescues his Geisha Daughter. He reveals to Ryu that the Shogun of Darkness blackmailed him and kidnapped his daughter, forcing him to join his side and oppose Ryu. Preserving the honor and respect he always had for the tragic samurai, Ryu agrees to grant his dying request.
Trivia[]
Despite him also being named the Kendo Samurai, his swordsmanship is likely kenjutsu (剣術), meaning "the method, technique or the art of the sword." This is possible, considering that kenjutsu was the original existing Japanese swordsmanship that samurais practiced since before the Meiji Restoration (明治維新 Meiji Ishin). Kendo (剣道 kendō, meaning "sword way") however, is a more sport-oriented style that evolved from Kenjutsu centuries later.
Gallery[]
