Sakamoto Days Episode 3 Review: Shin Locks In

The 3rd episode of Sakamoto Days or SAKAMOTO DAYS, focuses more on Shin’s fighting abilities and dedication to Sakamoto. Let’s discover how this episode plays out.

Sakamoto Days Episode 2 Recap

Right from the start, we see Shin settling comfortably into his new role as a convenience store clerk. Not only has he mastered the art of assisting customers, but his mind-reading abilities allow him to anticipate their needs and guide them effortlessly to the right aisles. During his time at the store, he also learns an important Sakamoto family rule: if Sakamoto ever breaks this rule, his wife has promised to divorce him—a prospect that terrifies him.

Later in the episode, Shin and Sakamoto venture out to grab some pork buns but soon find themselves entangled in a much bigger predicament. They encounter Lu, the daughter of a mafia family, who drags them into her family drama. Her family’s hidden treasures are locked away in a secret chamber, with the key entrusted to Lu for safekeeping. Now, she must protect it at all costs, as powerful adversaries relentlessly pursue her to claim the key.

Among those sent after Lu are two assassin brothers with a penchant for brutality, they take pleasure in beheading their victims and sketching the gruesome aftermath. However, their mission takes a sharp turn when they come face-to-face with Sakamoto, and it’s safe to say things don’t go as planned for them.

Sakamoto Days Episode 3 Review

The way today’s episode begins reminds me very much of Gintama as Sakamoto shares his voice with Gin, and just like Gin, he also now has two very interesting underlings. On top of that, both Shin and Lu banter exactly like Shinpachi and Kagura. Shin has completely evolved into a very good convenience store clerk, and he cannot stand Lu not even trying to do the bare minimum. He expects Sakamoto to say something to her, but the response that he gets from him shocks both Lu and Shin.

Sakamoto is not known to be a talker, but this time, he chatters away in a weirdly chirpy manner. It is only later that we find the reason behind it, which was the arrival of another very skilled hitman who could take the appearance of anyone. From him, Sakamoto finds out that there has been a bounty on his head, and the amount offered is exorbitant. It is clear that someone wants to get rid of him after so many years.

Thus, in this episode, we effectively see how assassins try to kill Sakamoto, and he, along with his newly formed team, fends them off. Even though Shin is usually considered Sakamoto’s sidekick, here he is very much the main character. His loyalty towards Sakamoto is proven yet again when we see him being determined not to let anyone disturb his partner when he is at an outing with his family.

The episode was very entertaining, and the way the fight sequences were choreographed was unique. However, I do think that the animation quality could have been better, even though what we get here can be considered good enough. The overall vibe of this anime is pretty cool, and the fact that it showcases themes that remind you of a fun version of John Wick is also endearing.

Verdict

I love today’s episode and would definitely ask you to watch this if you prefer a good action and slice-of-life anime. The characters here are very fascinating and likeable, plus, they genuinely entertain you till the end. I’m pretty sure we will see more intriguing characters as the show goes on.

Must Read: Sakamoto Days Episode 2 Review: The Tai-chi Girl Is Here!