Netflix’s latest series, Last Samurai Standing, has quickly captured the attention of audiences since its debut on November 13, 2025. The show has soared to the top of the streaming platform’s charts, securing the #2 spot on the Top 10 Non-English Shows list, closely following the massive success of Squid Game.
The historical drama, created by Michihito Fujii, is based on a novel by Shogo Imamura and is set in the tumultuous Meiji Era. The storyline centers around Shujiro, portrayed by Junichi Okada, who enters a high-stakes competition in Kyoto, initially motivated by a grand prize of ¥100,000 to support his ailing family. However, he soon realizes that the contest is a deadly game where samurai must fight to the death.
In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Fujii expressed optimism about the potential for additional seasons of Last Samurai Standing. While there is currently no official confirmation for a second season, he believes the narrative has room to expand. The first season concludes with significant events, including the death of Toshimichi Okubo and the revelation of the organizer’s malicious intent behind the death games. Fujii stated, “Two or three seasons. However, sometimes future seasons happen two or three years later, and viewers forget what happened in the past. Because I’m a fan of Netflix, I try to convey as much as I can in one season.”
Fujii’s dedication to delivering a cohesive story is evident throughout the first season, which aims to encapsulate the journey of Shujiro and his struggle against overwhelming odds. The show’s gripping narrative and character development have resonated with viewers, drawing comparisons to the intense atmosphere and themes of Squid Game.
As fans eagerly await news about the show’s future, Last Samurai Standing has already sparked interest in similar titles available on Netflix. Suggestions include Alice in Borderland, which also features protagonists unwittingly caught in deadly contests. For those looking beyond the platform, historical dramas like Shogun and films such as The Running Man provide alternative viewing options that explore themes of survival and competition.
All six episodes of Last Samurai Standing are currently available for streaming on Netflix, allowing viewers to experience the intense drama and rich historical context of the series. As discussions about its future unfold, fans remain hopeful for more installments that will further delve into the complexities of the characters and their world.
With its rapid rise in popularity, Last Samurai Standing is poised to make a lasting impact in the realm of international streaming content.
