Yaiba: Samurai Legend marks one of the standout additions to Netflix‘s anime catalogue in 2025. This series serves as a contemporary reboot of the original 90s anime, both of which derive from the iconic manga by Gosho Aoyama, best known for the highly successful Detective Conan series. With a goal of delivering a more faithful adaptation, this latest iteration boasts improved pacing and striking visuals, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences alike.
The journey of this manga has been long, with its English release occurring nearly 40 years after the original’s debut. Despite the immense popularity of Detective Conan, which remains one of the best-selling manga ever, its recognition beyond Japanese borders has been limited. As a result, Yaiba: Samurai Legend has often gone unnoticed. Nevertheless, every aspect of this series—ranging from its modern flair to nostalgic elements—makes it a noteworthy entry in the spring 2025 lineup. Anyone yet to experience this series is certainly missing out.
Exceptional Animation in Yaiba: Samurai Legend
Outstanding Visuals: What Makes Yaiba Shine?
One of the most striking features of Yaiba: Samurai Legend is its breathtaking animation. Produced by WIT Studio, known for its stunning artwork and animation in action genres, this anime stands out as one of their finest efforts. The series consistently delivers visually spectacular scenes that capture the audience’s attention and deliver a captivating experience.
The remarkable quality of the animation can be credited to the talented team involved. Each episode features some of the industry’s top animators and storyboard artists. Episode #6, in particular, directed by Takeshi Maenami—who previously worked on the iconic Gear 5 Luffy’s clash with Kaido in One Piece—showcases some of the series’ most impressive visuals. The involvement of such esteemed figures ensures that every episode of Yaiba: Samurai Legend impresses, with expectations high for even more spectacular episodes to come.
A Refreshingly Classic Storyline
Why 90s Vibes Make Yaiba Stand Out
At the heart of Yaiba: Samurai Legend is its exceptional writing, drawing upon tropes that were quintessential in the 80s and 90s, yet are now rarely found in mainstream anime. The protagonist, Yaiba, is characterized by his enthusiastic and combative nature, while the bumbling incompetence of Onimaru’s henchmen adds a layer of nostalgic humor. Although the setting is modernized, Yaiba: Samurai Legend resonates with the charm and style of 90s anime.
This throwback approach not only enriches the series but also enhances its appeal in today’s anime landscape, which often gravitates toward darker and more serious narratives. The balance between fun and serious moments showcases Gosho Aoyama’s talent as a writer, with Yaiba standing as a testament to his versatility, complementing his well-known work on Detective Conan.
Despite its relatively obscure source material, Netflix‘s Yaiba: Samurai Legend deserves more recognition amid a crowded anime season in spring 2025. With engaging character dynamics and stunning action sequences, it swiftly emerges as one of the season’s highlights. For fans of storytelling that pays homage to classic anime eras, Yaiba: Samurai Legend is essential viewing.
Yaiba: Samurai Legend releases new episodes every Saturday on Netflix.