Highlights from Sakamoto Days Episode 11: Cliffhangers and Unforeseen Betrayals
Released on March 15, 2025, Sakamoto Days episode 11 marked a significant turning point for the series as it wrapped up the first cour with an intense cliffhanger. The narrative escalated when a notorious group of inmates, known for their deadly tactics, received orders to eliminate the Sakamoto group. Meanwhile, tensions rose as Sakamoto and his allies continued their battle against Wutang, leading to high-stakes moments filled with strategy and suspense.
A Game of Old Maid: Stakes Are High
This episode, titled Casino Battle, portrayed Sakamoto’s team as they ventured into a casino, facing the challenge of gambling against Wutang. Initially feeling the odds were against them, Sakamoto and the group aimed to turn things around. Wutang, on his side, experienced a winning streak, setting the stage for an unexpected showdown.
Shin’s remarkable poker face, coupled with his mind-reading ability, allowed him to gain a significant amount of money. Alongside him, Sakamoto utilized his quick reflexes to accumulate winnings. However, the competition concluded in a tie as both teams emerged with equal funds after the gambling round. This led to an unexpected twist—a game of Old Maid was chosen to determine the custody of Lu.
The Significance of Past Connections
Before diving into the game, viewers were treated to a flashback that revealed the origins of Wutang’s relationship with Lu. It showcased a moment from their childhood when Lu saved Wutang from being bullied, ultimately influencing Wutang’s development into a strategic thinker, often deemed the ‘brain’ of the duo.
Betrayals and Tactical Moves
As the game of Old Maid commenced, it was evident that Shin’s overconfidence stemmed from his unique ability. The Joker card was first passed between Lu and Wutang before reaching Shin. However, Wutang cleverly manipulated the game by filling Shin’s mind with fabricated thoughts, ultimately leading to a critical breakdown for Shin.
The climax of episode 11 left only Sakamoto and Wutang in the game, with Sakamoto holding the Joker card. While his poker face was commendable, Wutang’s sharp instincts allowed him to spot the tell. Just as the game became intense, Wutang’s allies betrayed him unexpectedly, revealing their true intentions, despite the childish nature of the standoff.
Seizing an opportunity, Wutang instructed Sakamoto to attack his betrayers, leading to an action-packed resolution where Sakamoto, along with Shin and Lu, managed to subdue the traitors. In a surprising turn of events, Wutang conceded defeat, leaving Lu in Sakamoto’s care, but not without some comedic irony—his punishment was an unexpected gig at Sakamoto’s Departmental Store.
The Emergence of a New Threat
As Sakamoto Days episode 11 progressed, Wutang uncovered the identity of the individual who placed a bounty on Sakamoto’s head: a mysterious figure known as Slur. This revelation introduced a tension-filled new arc involving four notorious inmates brought together by Slur for a dangerous mission. Their introduction at a fast-food joint underscored their unparalleled criminal backgrounds, leading to an ominous directive from Kashima: they were to eliminate Taro Sakamoto, Shin Asakura, and Shaotang Lu.
Despite their initial skepticism regarding Sakamoto’s abilities, Kashima’s strong warning not to underestimate their targets added a layer of dread. With the episode concluding, these formidable inmates made a bold claim—they would take care of their targets within a month, effectively setting the stage for the next thrilling arc as cour 1 of Sakamoto Days drew to a close.