The Elusive Samurai episode 4 review: Hojo Tokiyuki goes up against Sadamune Ogasawara in a game of archery

Modified Jul 29, 2024 10:30 GMT

The Elusive Samurai episode 4 review: Hojo Tokiyuki goes up against Sadamune Ogasawara in a game of archery (Image via CloverWorks Studio)

In episode 4 of The Elusive Samurai which was released on July 27, 2024, viewers are treated to a thrilling and complex narrative as Hojo Tokiyuki faces Sadamune Ogasawara in a tense archery competition. The episode delves into political intrigue with Takauji’s visit to Emperor Godaigo, personal loyalty as retainers are rewarded, and the protagonist's growth as Tokiyuki hones his archery skills.

While the episode attempts to balance humor and drama, the visual quality and comedic elements falter at times. Nevertheless, Tokiyuki's character development and the high-stakes archery duel provide engaging moments, making this installment a noteworthy chapter in the series.

The Elusive Samurai episode 4 recap

Ashikaga Takauji and Godaigo meet each other (Image via CloverWorks Studio)

In Episode 4 of The Elusive Samurai, Ashikaga Takauji visits Emperor Godaigo, who praises Takauji for his actions in Kamakura, granting him a character from his name and offering him a new imperial court position. However, Takauji requests that his retainers receive the positions instead.

Later, Takauji's steward, Moronao, expresses concern about Takauji's diminishing humanity, but Takauji reassures him to focus on supporting Godaigo. An unusual glimpse of Takauji’s eye reveals multiple eyes within it. While hunting, Takauji converses with a retainer who thanks him for recommending him as governor of Shinano— this man was the first to betray Tokiyuki’s family.

Takauji asks Sadamune to search for Hojo clan survivors (Image via CloverWorks Studio)

Takauji is aware of Yorishige’s support for Tokiyuki and instructs his ally Sadamune to monitor Yorishige. Sadamune vows to eliminate them all. Meanwhile, Tokiyuki fails to chop an obstacle, prompting Yorishige to warn that strength training might reduce his elusiveness.

Tokiyuki showcases his exceptional archery skills, sharing his past experiences, and Yorishige suggests leveraging these skills for evasive attacks. When informed of Sadamune’s arrival, Yorishige instructs Tokiyuki and the others to hide. Sadamune, aiming to win a dog-shooting competition at Suwa Grand Shrine, argues that victory will advance his goals.

Ogasawara Sadamune joins the dog hunting contest (Image via CloverWorks Studio)

On the competition day, Shizuku compliments Tokiyuki, who is reminded to use a false name. Sadamune unexpectedly joins the competition, asserting its significance to Shinano and aiming to enliven the event. He proposes a bet: if he wins, he searches Suwa homes for Hojo clan members, and if they win, he forfeits the search.

Hojo Tokiyuki, alias Chojumaru, accepts the challenge. During the duel, he recalls Yorishige’s tips, using them to earn points and evade Sadamune’s shots. Despite sustaining a head injury, Tokiyuki’s excitement grows, finding the challenge exhilarating. The episode concludes with Tokiyuki’s confidence being fueled up for the challenge.

The Elusive Samurai episode 4 review

The animation quality was less powerful as compared to this (Image via CloverWorks Studio)

As they say, all good things come to an end, but not all impressive visuals maintain their glory. This sentiment resonates with many fans of The Elusive Samurai after watching this episode. The dog-shooting competition's visuals resembled those of a poorly made anime video game, lacking consistency in quality.

Though there were moments of polish, they were sporadic. Sadamune’s comedic actions and mannerisms did not enhance the show either. The already hit-or-miss comedy involving Yorishige was further undermined by Sadamune’s exaggerated reactions and physical quirks, which detracted from the gravity of the Grand Suwa Shrine’s predicament.

Hojo Tokiyuki commends Sadamune's archery skills (Image via CloverWorks Studio)

His humor conflicted with the serious issues at hand, rendering those scenes less impactful and tense. Nevertheless, Tokiyuki remains an intriguing protagonist. As Yorishige noted in the episode, Tokiyuki’s recognition of his enemy’s unique qualities is commendable. Additionally, his reaction to his bloodied skull was a refreshing moment.

However, there is hope that Tokiyuki will develop proper swordsman skills after this mini-arc, ensuring that The Elusive Samurai lives up to its name. Overall, this was a satisfactory episode.