Kamen Rider Zeztz becomes the first Kamen Rider series to simulcast globally, marking a significant step for the franchise.
This edition of Reviews observes a noteworthy milestone in the international expansion of Japanese tokusatsu. After decades of achieving cult status in Japan and earning a niche following abroad, the Kamen Rider franchise is setting a new precedent. The latest series, Kamen Rider Zeztz, now simulcasts internationally, enabling fans across the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand to follow the series in real-time, a significant step toward global inclusion in the franchise’s 55th anniversary year.
According to My Shiny Toy Robots, this move by Toei indicates a strategic effort to grow Kamen Rider’s global audience, facilitated by partnerships with Shout Factory and TokuSHOUTsu. By aligning their release schedule with international audiences, Toei sets a path for more significant engagement outside Japan, potentially opening doors for merchandising and localized adaptations. Fans had access to previous series through streaming and Blu-ray but always with a delay. This move marks a momentous shift as non-Asian audiences receive simultaneous access.
S.H. Figuarts Adds More Fun to One Piece Collection
On the collector’s front, Bandai Tamashii Nations is responding to ongoing demand for more comprehensive accessory sets with the S.H. Figuarts Party Set -The Straw Hat Crew-. As reviewed by My Shiny Toy Robots, this release answers criticisms about the limited availability of scenario-based accessories in the S.H. Figuarts line. Fans of the “One Piece” franchise can now enhance their displays with diorama accessories that emulate the dynamic and jubilant atmosphere aboard the Going Merry, one of the franchise’s iconic ships. Released this past May, the set reflects Bandai’s ongoing commitment to evolving their offerings to meet collector expectations.
Celebrating 60 Years of Ultraman
Meanwhile, the enduring Ultraman franchise is commemorating its 60th anniversary with a special feature, Ultraman Zero Cosmo Rise: Rise! Heroes of Light!. Per My Shiny Toy Robots, Tsuburaya Productions has released this 25-minute action-packed special on YouTube, introducing the new “Cosmo Rise” form of Ultraman Zero. Written by Junichiro Ashiki and directed by Koichi Sakamoto, this release strengthens the franchise’s storied tradition of celebrating anniversaries with fresh content, even when major projects like “Shin Ultraman” are not on the horizon. This special keeps the spotlight on Ultraman Teo’s current airing, ensuring that the franchise remains vital and engaging for both new and long-time fans.
These developments paint a picture of a rapidly adapting industry, one that’s evolving to accommodate and engage a wider, more diverse audience while continuing to support long-time collectors and fans.
