Anime That Gave Us Black Samurai Who Aren’t Sidekicks

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It’s unusual to see Black samurai as the main characters in anime, but a few shows do put them front and center. Here are five examples where Black swordsmen aren’t just supporting characters – they’re the driving force of the story. Two are clear leads, while three others give significant weight to the Black samurai’s journey. In each case, these warriors fight, make their own choices, and directly impact how the story unfolds.

‘Afro Samurai’ (2007)

This short series is based on a manga by Takashi Okazaki and tells the story of a Black samurai warrior searching for the “Number One” headband – a symbol of being the greatest swordsman. The show follows his battles against various opponents – from other samurai to bandits and powerful lords – all set in a unique world that blends traditional feudal Japan with futuristic technology. A central theme is the impact of seeking revenge, and the story is a complete, focused tale about the choices the main character makes.

‘Afro Samurai: Resurrection’ (2009)

This new movie continues the story of the main character, but his hard-won peace is shattered when old and new enemies resurface. These villains use dark magic and cunning schemes to pull him back into fighting. The film features bigger action sequences and explores the lasting consequences of the events in the first movie, all while focusing on the main character’s choices and the price of his past actions.

‘Yasuke’ (2021)

This series tells the story of a skilled swordsman, based on a real African warrior who served a famous Japanese lord. It begins after the lord’s death, following the swordsman as he protects a child with a strange and powerful ability. The child attracts dangerous enemies – including mercenaries, powerful leaders, and supernatural beings. Through flashbacks, we learn about the swordsman’s past as a respected warrior, and the present-day story shows him taking up his protective role once more. The series blends traditional samurai themes with elements of mecha and magic, and the main character’s choices drive the plot of every major conflict.

‘Cannon Busters’ (2019)

This show follows a group of travelers, and one key member is 9ine, a Black samurai who wanders from place to place. He’s a skilled fighter who consistently saves the group from danger, whether it’s from bounty hunters, monsters, or robots. His battles highlight his impressive sword skills and often turn the situation around when things look bleak. The show also hints at his mysterious past and personal code, which often play a role in the challenges the group faces. While he isn’t the only main character, 9ine’s samurai background is important to the story throughout their travels.

‘Nobunaga the Fool’ (2014)

This alternate history series, centered around giant robots, includes a character inspired by Yasuke, the Black samurai. He’s a skilled warrior and a trusted advisor to Oda Nobunaga, fighting in important battles and taking part in strategic planning. Several episodes focus on his duels and defensive efforts, which impact land control and political alliances. While not the main character, he’s consistently presented as a vital part of the military action and Nobunaga’s inner circle.

If you think we left out any great anime – whether it’s an OVA, a short, or something a little less well-known – please share your recommendations in the comments so others can discover it!

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2025-12-08 03:14