Netflix has shared an exciting first look at Last Samurai Standing, a new Japanese series that blends historical drama with intense survival elements. Set during the final years of the Edo period, the show follows 300 samurai warriors who gather at Kyoto’s Tenryuji Temple, all drawn by the chance to win a staggering 100 billion yen prize. Scheduled to premiere in November 2025, the series features a star-studded cast, including Junichi Okada, Masahiro Higashide, Shota Sometani, Hiroshi Tamaki, Takayuki Yamada, Jyo Kairi, Wataru Ichinose, Hideaki Ito, and Yasushi Fuchigami.
A Fresh Take on Samurai History
Kaata Sakamoto, Netflix Japan’s content chief, described Last Samurai Standing as a deep dive into a lesser-known period of samurai history. Unlike traditional portrayals, where samurai are seen as powerful and revered warriors, this show explores their downfall. Sakamoto explained that by the late Edo period, samurai had lost much of their influence, and the series will depict how they suddenly found themselves as ordinary people. He compared the show to Shōgun for its historical setting and Squid Game for its high-stakes survival theme.
“When people think of samurai, they often imagine a time of glory and honor,” Sakamoto stated in an interview with Variety. “But towards the end of the Edo period, many samurai were stripped of their status. Last Samurai Standing asks the question: What happens when Japan’s fiercest warriors are reduced to common men, forced to fight for survival? Think of it as Shōgun meets Squid Game.”
Netflix’s Expanding Focus on Japanese Content
Netflix has been aggressively investing in Japanese-language series, with Last Samurai Standing being the latest addition. Historical action dramas have a proven track record of success, as seen with the popularity of Shōgun, which gained critical acclaim and international viewership. The survival element in Last Samurai Standing also aligns with Netflix’s past hits, particularly Squid Game, which became a worldwide sensation in 2021.
Netflix’s commitment to expanding its global reach is evident in its increasing investment in international productions. By announcing Last Samurai Standing, Netflix continues to build its Japanese content lineup, adding to successful titles like Alice in Borderland and House of Ninjas.
A Potential Standout in Netflix’s International Lineup
With its historical accuracy and survival-driven storyline, Last Samurai Standing is shaping up to be a unique and compelling addition to Netflix’s collection. The combination of historical drama and high-stakes competition introduces a gripping dynamic that could attract both history enthusiasts and fans of intense thrillers.
The comparison to Shōgun and Squid Game boosts the show’s appeal, especially as Squid Game is set to conclude with its third season. A survival competition featuring samurai warriors could position Last Samurai Standing as the perfect successor to Squid Game, filling the gap for fans of intense, strategic battles. Additionally, it could help ease the wait for the upcoming seasons of Shōgun on FX and Hulu.
With its intriguing premise and Netflix’s backing, Last Samurai Standing is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated series of 2025.
