Netflix 'Ikusagami: God of War' Released, Intense Survival of 292 Samurai

The Japanese samurai battle royale drama 'Ikusagami: God of War', released by Netflix on November 13, 2025, is based on the historical novel of the same name by Naoki Prize-winning author Shogo Imamura.​​

Set in early Meiji-era Japan in 1878, the story depicts 292 samurai engaging in a survival game for a large cash prize at the Tenryuji temple in Kyoto. The protagonist Shujiro Saga is played by Junichi Okada, who also serves as the martial arts director and producer. Shujiro, once the strongest warrior, takes up the sword again to participate in the perilous survival game for the sake of his sick wife and child.​​

Riho Yoshioka, Yumia Fujisaki, Kaya Kiyohara, Taichi Saotome, Yuya Endo, and other top Japanese actors have joined the cast, creating a buzz. Additionally, Takayuki Yamada, Kairi Jo, Wataru Ichinose, and 14 other actors have newly joined the ensemble.​​

'Ikusagami: God of War' combines traditional Japanese period drama with modern survival action, showcasing deep human drama and action, set against the backdrop of the turbulent late 19th century, exploring human survival instincts and family love. It was simultaneously released in about 190 countries worldwide through Netflix, garnering significant attention, especially in Korea and Asia.​​