Anime That Gave Us Black Samurai Who Aren’t Sidekicks

Black samurai leads are rare in anime, but a handful of titles center Black swordsmen who drive the story rather than orbit someone else’s arc. Below are five entries that fit—two clear-cut leads and three borderline picks where the Black ronin figure still carries substantial narrative weight. Each one features a samurai or samurai-coded warrior who fights, chooses, and changes the plot on their own terms.

‘Afro Samurai’ (2007)

Based on Takashi Okazaki’s manga, this mini-series follows a Black ronin pursuing the “Number One” headband, a status that marks the world’s strongest swordsman. The narrative tracks his duel-by-duel journey through a stylized, tech-infused feudal setting, with a recurring focus on the consequences of vengeance. Its cast pits the protagonist against rival ronin, bandits, and warlords tied to his past. The show’s compact structure delivers a complete revenge saga centered entirely on the title character’s choices.

‘Afro Samurai: Resurrection’ (2009)

This feature-length sequel continues the same protagonist’s story as old enemies upend the uneasy peace he built after achieving his goal. The plot introduces new antagonists who use necromancy and theft to force the ronin back onto the battlefield. It expands the setting with larger-scale set pieces and a deeper look at the fallout from the first story’s violence. The film keeps the focus squarely on the lead’s agency as he confronts what his legacy truly costs.

‘Yasuke’ (2021)

Inspired by the historical African retainer who served Oda Nobunaga, this series reimagines the swordsman’s life after his lord’s fall. The story pairs him with a child whose mysterious power draws the attention of mercenaries, daimyo, and otherworldly foes. Flashbacks establish his rise at court and his status as a trusted warrior, while the present-day arc charts his return to protecting others. Samurai codes, mecha, and sorcery intersect as the title character’s decisions move every major conflict.

‘Cannon Busters’ (2019)

While this road-adventure show centers an ensemble, the character 9ine is a wandering Black ronin who repeatedly resolves high-stakes fights and protects the traveling party. Episodes showcase his sword technique against bounty hunters, monsters, and mechanized threats, often turning the tide in critical moments. His lone-wolf code and past are used to frame several conflicts the group encounters. Though not the sole lead, his samurai role is sustained and plot-relevant across the journey.

‘Nobunaga the Fool’ (2014)

This alt-history mecha series features a Yasuke-inspired character among Oda Nobunaga’s close retainers, depicted as a capable warrior who participates in pivotal battles. He appears in court strategy scenes and front-line engagements, reinforcing his position within the inner circle. Key episodes place him in duels and defensive actions that affect territorial stakes and alliances. The portrayal is supporting, but it consistently locates a Black samurai figure within the core military story.

If we missed a worthy addition—OVA, short, or deep cut—share your pick in the comments so everyone can check it out.