character

Worms

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:12:11 +0100

Worms (ワーム, Wāmu^?) are the villains in the Japanese tokusatsu series Kamen Rider Kabuto. They are an alien life form that came from a meteor destroying the city district of Shibuya seven years prior to the series' timeline. However, the Worms known as Natives existed prior to the coming of the Shibuya Meteorite, through another meteorite that came 35 years ago.

The Worms were designed by Yasushi Nirasawa (韮沢靖 Nirasawa Yasushi^?), who also designed the Undead for Kamen Rider Blade, the Horrors in GARO and later created the Imagin for Kamen Rider Den-O. These designs were later detailed in Worm Works: GITAI (ワームワークスGITAI Wāmu Wākusu GITAI

Shibuya Meteorite

A mysterious meteorite that crashed into Shibuya seven years ago. This meteorite brought along the extraterrestrial creatures known as Worms. During episode 41, Riku Kagami explains that another meteorite carrying the Natives had arrived on Earth thirty-five years before this, explaining why fragments of the meteorite similar to those of the Shibuya Meteorite existed so long ago. The Natives that arrived on Earth worked with humans to create the Masked Rider System in order to fend off the threat of other Worms that would arrive later.

Classification

There exist two different species of Worms, the Natives and the unnamed Worms. The Natives have a horn appendage attached to their heads and they are not as aggressive as the Worms.

Natives

Natives are the Worms that arrived on Earth 35 years ago. After assuming human identities, they developed the Masked Rider System to give to the humans what would form ZECT. In return, ZECT would protect them from other Worms that might arrive.

Tachikawa Daigo is the first Native to appear. Certain Natives like him are able to summon the power of the Zecters. More Natives are revealed during episode 41, as their alliance with ZECT is clarified. Tadokoro is also revealed to be a Native working for ZECT after an AMB accident forces him back into his Worm form. Sisyra Worm, a Worm that was born from a Native mother, is the only Native Worm to be shown outside of a pupa form.

Negishi, a leader of the Natives who appears in episode 45, seems to be very hyperactive. In episode 47 and 48, it is revealed that Negishi works together with Mishima in order to turn humans into Natives using a special necklace, as Negishi believes that there is no other way for his kind and humans to co-exist. However, some Natives, such as Tadokoro, are indeed able to live on as a human. Ultimately, Negishi's plan fails thanks to Kabuto and Gatack.

Worms

The second Worm species, they are not given a specific name, arrived on Earth seven years ago on the Shibuya Meteorite. Aggressive to humans, Worms attempt to blend into the human population by copying the faces of their victims along with their memories. They only need to look at the human to copy their image, but once done so, they attempt to kill the original. However, the Worms believe the person that was mimicked now exists as a part of them due the fact they also acquired their victims' personalities. Despite being able to copy both image and memory, they are unable to copy certain things such as scent. The pupa form is known as a Salis, taking on the shape of a chrysalis. A Salis normally has a green body, except for the albino one known as a Mutation Salis which has a white body. After a Worm is threatened or endangered, it has the ability to molt, revealing a stronger form that can move at blinding speeds which comes from their high metabolism.

It is later revealed that Worms do not need to naturally molt and their "cast" can be broken off or shattered. They also have the ability to revert back into a Salis form if necessary. When a Worm is destroyed, it explodes into its predominant color. They largely resemble Arthropods, specifically insects. The Executives are the only Worms with non-insect appearance. Rena Mamiya/Uca Worm, Cammarus Worm, Subst Worm and Reiji Nogi/Cassis Worm are all crustacean-type Worms. The Cochlea Worm is surprisingly a mollusk. By the events in episodes 46 and 47, the Worms eventually die out with only few remaining.

Major Worms

Playing a significant role in the series, these Worms are usually Executives or otherwise important Worms that greatly influence the story.

Worm Class

Executives

The upper-class Worms usually control massive groups of Worms. Very few Executives have been seen, but they each possess an enormous amount of power.

Rena Mamiya/Uca Worm (間宮麗奈／ウカワーム, Mamiya Rena/Uka Wāmu^?, 25-40): The first executive leader Worm to appear during episode 25, assuming the form of Rena Mamiya, a woman whose childhood dream was to sing in an opera. As a result, Uca Worm had an interest in singing requiems to her victims. She has several subordinates as her followers. Three of them (Cammarus Worm, Cochlea Worm and Subst Worm) are shown in their Worm form. The two remaining subordinates only appear in their human form during episode 37, testing Tendou's ability to fight without the Hyper Zecter. Instead of being defeated at the hands of the Hyper Zecter, they were destroyed by Tendou's newly-acquired Perfect Zecter. During the events of episode 39, in a fight with Kabuto, Uca Worm was injured and suffered a loss of memory as a Worm, believing that she was Rena herself and meeting Daisuke who fell in love with her human side. However, Rena soon regains her memories and fights Drake, forcing him to fatally wound her with (Double) Rider Shooting. Shortly afterwards she dies in Daisuke's arms.

Reiji Nogi/Cassis Worm (乃木怜治／カッシスワーム, Nogi Reiji/Kasshisu Wāmu^?, 41-46): Nogi is an even stronger Executive Worm, entering the scene after Uca Worm was destroyed. He was followed by six subordinates. He has the "Life of Immortality" ability, which enables him to evolve into a stronger form each time he gets defeated. Each of his forms has natural fighting ability and a unique power of his own. He was eventually destroyed as Cassis Worm Clipeus.
- Cassis Worm Dimidius (カッシスワーム・ディミディウス, Kasshisu Wāmu Dimidiusu^?, 41-42): The first form is Cassis Worm Dimidius. His unique power is "Freeze" or the ability to stop the flow of time to the point in which even the power of Hyper Clock Up is purposeless. He was defeated by Hyper Kabuto's Maximum Hyper Cyclone.
- Cassis Worm Gladius (カッシスワーム・グラディウス, Kasshisu Wāmu Guradiusu^?, 42-44): The second form is Cassis Worm Gladius. His power in this stronger form is advanced into "Absorb" or the ability to absorb other Worms and tachyon energy to gain their powers. He can only absorb tachyon energy sequencially. Simultaneous application of tachyon-based attacks will result to neutralization of the absorbed tachyon. He was weakened by Kabuto, Gattack and Kick Hopper's (Triple) Rider Kick and ultimately defeated right after by Hyper Kabuto's Maximum Hyper Cyclone.
- Cassis Worm Clipeus (カッシスワーム・クリペウス, Kasshisu Wāmu Kuripeusu^?, 45-46): The third form is Cassis Worm Clipeus. His power in this form is "Clone" or the ability to split himself into two entities. In addition to the blade arm gained in the previous form, he now gets armored plates and shields across his body. The first copy was destroyed by Gatack's Rider Kick, while the second one was destroyed by Kick Hopper, Punch Hopper's Rider Kick and Rider Punch.

Non-Executive

Scorpio Worm (スコルピオワーム, Sukorupio Wāmu^?, 19-46): Tsurugi's alter ego, Scorpio Worm is the Worm that killed Tsurugi and his sister and then mimicked Tsurugi. However, Tsurugi was able to overpower it and suppress his Worm heart, but he loses this resolve as he discovers he is a Worm in episode 46. It is also revealed that his stingers can force Worms to return to their human forms, as demonstrated upon the Clipeus's. He was defeated by Hyper Kabuto's Maximum Hyper Typhoon. He later died in his human form after talking to Jiiya.

Native Class

Natives (ネイティブ, Neitibu^?) are commonly shown in an altered pupa form, but a few Natives have evolved and reached a higher stage in the Worm hierarchy.

Sisyra Worm (シシーラワーム, Shishīra Wāmu^?, 31-49): Hiyori's alter ego, Sisyra Worm surfaced after Hiyori was in danger of being killed by Worms. Like Tadokoro, she is a Native who chose not to attack humanity.
Gryllus Worm (グリラスワーム, Gurirasu Wāmu^?, 48-49): The form Mishima took on after using multiple necklaces to forcefully transform himself into the "strongest Native", able to contend with the likes of Dark Kabuto and Hyper Kabuto and overpower them. He was destroyed by Hyper Kabuto and Gatack's (Double) Rider Kick.

Minor Worms

Some of these lower-class Worms are subordinates of Executives, while others have no association with the majority of Worms. They serve mainly as monsters of the week.

Aracnea Worm sub-class

Spider-based Worms.

Aracnea Worm Rubor (アラクネアワーム・ルボア, Arakunea Wāmu Ruboa^?, 1): The first Worm to be killed by Kabuto executing his Avalanche Break.
Aracnea Worm Flavus (アラクネアワーム・フラバス, Arakunea Wāmu Furabasu^?, 1-2): A Worm who is destroyed by Kabuto's Avalanche Slash.
Aracnea Worm Nigritia (アラクネアワーム・ニグリティア, Arakunea Wāmu Niguritia^?, 3-4): A Worm who Kabuto overwhelms in Rider Form before killing it with his Rider Kick.

Verber Worm sub-class

Tailless Whip Scorpion-based Worms that targeted people in white.

Verber Worm (ベルバーワーム, Berubā Wāmu^?, 7-8): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Verber Worm Rota (ベルバーワーム・ロタ, Berubā Wāmu Rota^?, 7): Destroyed by TheBee's Rider Sting.

Coleoptera Worm sub-class

Scarab-based Worms.

Coleoptera Worm Aeneus (コレオプテラワーム・アエネウス, Koreputera Wāmu Aeneusu^?, 9): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Coleoptera Worm Croceus (コレオプテラワーム・クロセウス, Koreputera Wāmu Kuroseusu^?, 9-10): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Coleoptera Worm Argentum (コレオプテラワーム・アージェンタム, Koreputera Wāmu Ājentamu^?, 9-10): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.

Sectio Worm sub-class

Mantis-based Worms

Sectio Worm (セクティオワーム, Sekutio Wāmu^?, 13): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Sectio Worm Acuere (セクティオワーム・アクエレ, Sekutio Wāmu Akuere^?, 13): Destroyed by TheBee's Rider Sting.

Formicaalubus Worm sub-class

Termite-based Worms, spared a doctor's life and assumed his form to target those in his care, turning them into drywood. Though their methods were odd, they still were Worms in nature.

Formicaalubus Worm (フォルミカアルビュスワーム, Forumikaarubyusu Wāmu^?, 15-16): Destroyed by Drake's Rider Shooting.
Formicaalubus Worm Oculus (フォルミカアルビュスワーム・オキュルス, Forumikaarubyusu Wāmu Okyurusu^?, 16): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Formicaalubus Worm Maxilla (フォルミカアルビュスワーム・マキシラ, Forumikaarubyusu Wāmu Makishira^?, 16): Destroyed by TheBee.

Brachypelma Worm sub-class

Tarantula-like Worms that protected the Worm eggs.

Brachypelma Worm Aurantium (ブラキペルマワーム・オーランタム, Burakiperuma Wāmu Ōrantamu^?, 21-22): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Brachypelma Worm Viridis (ブラキペルマワーム・ビリディス, Burakiperuma Wāmu Biridisu^?, 21-22): A Worm that copied Kagami's form and was later destroyed by Gatack's Gatack Vulcan.

Geophild Worm sub-class

Centipede-like, the Geophilid Worms (ジオフィリドワーム, Jiofirido Wāmu^?) attack anyone that possesses pieces of the Shibuya meteorite that brought the Natives to Earth.

Geophilid Worm 1 (23): Targeted Hiyori. Destroyed by Gatack's Rider Kick.
Geophilid Worm 2 (23): Targeted a fortune-teller. Destroyed by Gatack's Double Calibur.
Geophilid Worm 3 (23): Targeted a man in a bowling alley. Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Geophilid Worm 4 (23): Tageted Hiyori while she was at her parents' tombstone. Destroyed by Gatack's Rider Cutting.
Geophilid Worm 5 (24): Encountered in Area-X. Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Geophilid Worm 6 (24): Encountered in Area-X. Destroyed by Gatack's Rider Kick

Acarina Worm sub-class

Tick/Mite-like Worms.

Acarina Worm (アキャリナワーム, Akyarina Wāmu^?, 27): A Worm that is destroyed by Kabuto and Gatack's (Double) Rider Kick.
Acarina Worm Amber (アキャリナワーム・アンバー, Akyarina Wāmu Anbā^?, 28): Posed as Daisuke in a ZECT/Worm plot to kill off the real Daisuke and take the Drake Zecter. Defeated by Drake's Rider Shooting and destroyed by punches then being slammed into the ground.

Camponotus Worm sub-class

Carpenter ant-like Worms exclusive to the Hyper Battle special.

Camponotus Worm Oculus (カンポノタスワーム・オキュルス, Kanponotasu Wāmu Okyurusu^?): Destroyed by Hyper Gatack's Maximum Rider Power >>> Rider Kick.
Camponotus Worm Maxilla (カンポノタスワーム・マキシラ, Kanponotasu Wāmu Makishira^?): Destroyed by Hyper Kabuto's Maximum Rider Power >>> Rider Kick.

Other sub-classes

Lanpyris Worm (ランピリスワーム, Ranpirisu Wāmu^?, 3): A Worm that mimicked an officer it had just killed, the Lanpyris Worm goes after a girl named Yuki Tamai who witnessed its mimicry, assuming her form as the police arrive and arrest it with the girl running off. Ending up in the Shibakouen Station, the fake Yuki is intervened by Maki, convinced that the girl is human. However, Tendou breaks her out and she runs off to accomplish her objective as the real Yuki meets with her date at the amusement park. Assuming its true form, the Lanpyris Worm battles Kabuto over the entire amusement park at super speed before being destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Bellcricetus Worm (ベルクリケタスワーム, Berukuriketasu Wāmu^?, 3-4): A Worm that assumed the form of Kagami's younger brother, Ryo. This was the reason why he joined ZECT. Appearing in present day, the Bellcricetus Worm attacks Tendou after he defeated the Lanpyris Worm, molting into its adult form before flying off and stalking Tendo while playing on Kagami's emotions. Once "Ryo" reveals himself as a Worm, the Bellcricetus Worm explains the nature behind Worm mimicry as Tendou arrives and executes a Rider Kick on the Worm.
Epilachna Worm (エピラクナワーム, Epirakuna Wāmu^?, 5): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Pulex Worm (プレクスワーム, Purekusu Wāmu^?, 6): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Musca Worm (ミュスカワーム, Myusuka Wāmu^?, 11-12): Destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Viella Worm (ビエラワーム, Biera Wāmu^?, 17-18): Destroyed by Drake's Rider Shooting.
Sepultura Worm (セパルチュラワーム, Separuchura Wāmu^?, 19-20): Destroyed by Sasword's Rider Slash.
Tarantes Worm Purpura (タランテスワーム・パープラ, Tarantesu Wāmu Pāpura^?, 21-22): Assumed the form of Makoto, whom Kagami befriended. Though he survived Gatack's Rider Kick, Purpura/Makoto died protecting Kagami from the explosion that wiped out the Worm eggs.
Genomyas Worm (ジェノミアスワーム, Jenomiasu Wāmu^?, 25-26): Destroyed by Gatack's Rider Kick.
Culex Worm (キュレックスワーム, Kyurekkusu Wāmu^?, 29-30): Posed as Ichiro Ikesu (生簀一郎, Ikesu Ichirō^?), a master of the dark cooking arts that can manipulate emotion. Using the legendary Black Knife, Culex Worm/Ichiro intended to take over the world with his cooking. But Tendou stopped him, regardless of having attained the legendary White Knife. Culex Worm intended to kill Tendou to obtain the memories of his cooking skills, only to be destroyed by Kabuto's Rider Kick.
Foliatus Worm (フォリアタスワーム, Foriatasu Wāmu^?, 31-32): Destroyed by Kabuto and Gatack's (Double) Rider Kick.
Cammarus Worm (キャマラスワーム, Kyamarasu Wāmu^?, 33-34): Destroyed by Hyper Kabuto's Maximum Rider Power Rider Kick.
Cochlea Worm (コキリアワーム, Kokiria Wāmu^?, 35-36): Destroyed by Hyper Kabuto's Maximum Rider Power Rider Kick.
Leptophyes Worm (レプトーフィスワーム, Reputōfisu Wāmu^?, 37-38): Posed as a member of the choir class that disappeared seven years ago. Destroyed by Hyper Kabuto's Maximum Hyper Typhoon.
Subst Worm (サブストワーム, Sabusuto Wāmu^?, 39-40): A former servant of Uca Worm who turned on her mistress for "betraying herself and the Worms." Destroyed by Hyper Kabuto's Hyper Slash.

Kamen Rider Punch Hopper

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:05:26 +0100

Kamen Rider Punch Hopper (仮面ライダーパンチホッパー Kamen Raidā Panchi Hoppā^?) is one of the main anti-heroes of the 2006 Kamen Rider Series Kamen Rider Kabuto. Punch Hopper's design is based on the grasshopper.

Kamen Rider Punch Hopper

Shun Kageyama

Fictional character biography

Once their partnership formed, both Kageyama and Yaguruma set out to for revenge against Kabuto by ambushing him and Gatack within an abandoned factory. Kick and Punch Hopper demonstrate their new abilities, easily defeating Kabuto and Gatack in a matter of minutes after the two were weakened by the activation of the 'Red Shoes' system. Unlike Yaguruma, Kageyama is not completely into the darkness yet and Yaguruma often corrects his way of thinking whenever Kageyama shows signs of 'reaching the light'. This is first shown when he tries to grab onto a bit of light after meeting a young girl who he defends from Leptophyes Worm. Yaguruma tells him that his way of thinking is wrong and even the slightest bit of light will destroy them. After discovering the girl Kageyama saved early had become a Worm, Punch Hopper along with Kick Hopper annihilate the Worms together, and they manifest in their own power. Kageyama once again questions the value of the light, but Yaguruma tells him that they live in a world of darkness, and that he should not seek the light.

Kageyama works with Yaguruma in an attempt to destroy a confused and weakened Rena Mamiya during episode 40, in hopes of eliminating her early. Their attempt almost works, but Rena is saved by Kamen Rider Drake along with Gon, who distracts them, allowing their party to escape. Their plan did have a side-effect however, resulting in a recovery of Rena's Worm memories. Kageyama later asks Yaguruma why he didn't kill her, and an extremely happy Yaguruma answers by saying that he has indeed taken a liking to her. Even more so, Yaguruma protects Rena from Subst Worm when she is endangered. This led to an infuriated Kageyama, as it went against their beliefs of abandoning the light. Yaguruma is shocked however, when he gets rejected by a temporary Uca Worm, and his bond with Kageyama is restored.

During episode 41, Kageyama and Yaguruma capture Tsurugi, and through a loss of memory, Tsurugi is tricked into thinking that they are his family and he is the little brother. The trio then eventually encounters Reiji Nogi who makes short work of them using "Freeze" to cause all their Rider Finishers to collide. Kageyama and Yaguruma watch as Reiji Nogi advances on Area Z during episode 44, and Kageyama wants to help them fight, but Yaguruma laughs at him for trying to be an ally of justice. Kageyama reverts to his old self briefly and picks up the abandoned TheBee Brace, until threatened by Yaguruma. Ultimately, he returns to his old style and becomes Punch Hopper again. Kageyama also follows Yaguruma's way of regaining the darkness by binding himself with chains. He ignores Tendou's request for help, stating that he will not help humans. Along with Punch Hopper, Kick Hopper defeats Cassis Worm Clipeus in episode 46. The two Hoppers utilize the Rider Jump function to send Cassis Worm flying into the air, destroying him with a Rider Kick and Punch as he falls down.

Kageyama then becomes one of the many looking for the Worm identification necklaces, believing them to be useful in his mission. Upon seeing Kageyama with a Worm identification necklace, Yaguruma scolds him for using such a device. In episode 48, Kageyama tells Yaguruma that he has become a Worm and can no longer control himself due to fact that having three Native necklaces sped up his transformation. As a show of pity, he uses a Rider Kick to end Kageyama's suffering. As Kageyama dies in Yaguruma's arms, Yaguruma mentions that after all they've gone through, the two will always be partners. They will look to the light for a new future.

Punch Hopper

Unlike all of the other Riders in Kamen Rider Kabuto, the Kamen Rider Hopper Series Riders only have one form that they transform into. Punch Hopper has a black Acrida cinerea motif and by raising the legs on the Hopper Zecter (ホッパーゼクター, Hoppā Zekutā^?), Punch Hopper can jump high into the sky. By lowering the legs on the Hopper Zecter, the energy is concentrated into a tachyon-powered Rider Punch (ライダーパンチ, Raidā Panchi^?). The impact upon landing on the ground again powers up another punch.

KAmen Rider Kick Hopper

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:03:28 +0100

Kamen Rider Kick Hopper (仮面ライダーキックホッパー Kamen Raidā Kikku Hoppā^?) is one of the main anti-heroes of the 2006 Kamen Rider Series Kamen Rider Kabuto.

Kamen Rider Kick Hopper

Sou Yaguruma

Fictional character biography

After a series of unknown events, Yaguruma returned as a very different person with a wild leather jacket outfit. The loss of his rank and dignity because of Tendou driven him very insane, seeing him himself as a "loser" unworthy of his previous ideology and embraces a new ideology around hell and darkness. After bringing Kagayama under his wing once more, Yaguruma attempts to stir his partner on to see things as he does, seeing that Kageyama only setting himself up for a fall at the slightest glimmer of hope while expressing a bit of envy because he could no longer feel any emotion. As either TheBee or Kick Hopper, Yaguruma uses a fighting style themed around kicking attacks.

He manages to force two Executive level Worms to retreat during his first appearance due to believing that they were laughing at him. After destroying multiple Pupa Worm, Yaguruma quickly stripped Kageyama of the TheBee Zecter with a Rider Kick after telling him that he had "been to Hell" and attempted to invite Kageyama to come with him. Though Kageyama is reluctant at first, he accepts Yaguruma's offer when he saved his life, proving his partner with a Hopper Zecter of his own. With Kagayama as Punch Hopper, Yaguruma ambush Kabuto and Gatack within an abandoned factory, with the two Hoppers easily defeating Kabuto and Gatack in a matter of minutes after the two were weakened by the activation of the 'Red Shoes' system.

He and Kageyama attempt to destroy a confused and weakened Rena Mamiya during episode 40, in hopes of eliminating her early. However, he hesitates at the last moment, as if showing affection for Rena when he sees in her eyes that she has gone through the same darkness as he and Kageyama. Drake and Rena are then saved by Gon who used a fire extinguisher to distract the Hoppers. Their attempt almost works, but Rena is saved by Kamen Rider Drake. Their plan did have a side-effect, resulting in a recovery of Rena's Worm memories. When asked by Kageyama later, he says that he has indeed taken a liking to Rena, and therefore did not kill her. Even more so, Yaguruma protects Rena from Subst Worm when she is endangered. This led to an infuriated Kageyama, as it went against their beliefs of abandoning the light. Later, in his encounter with Rena and Daisuke, when Yaguruma says to Daisuke that he will protect Rena, he gets surprised when Rena, who temporarily reverted back to Uca Worm, hit him hard which sent him flying away. After that, he shows up with an injured face to a laughing Kageyama and their bond is restored.

During episode 41, Kageyama and Yaguruma fight with a depressed Tsurugi. After defeating Tsurugi, Yaguruma offers him a place as his little brother, which Tsurugi happily accepts. Yaguruma meets Tendou once more, and challenges him to a tofu cook-off, but since the seller is sold out, they would have to reschedule. The trio then encounters Reiji Nogi who makes short work of them using "Freeze" to move out of the way and cause all their Rider Finishers to collide. Continuing from the comical arc of the tofu cook-off, near the end of the episode, Tendou accidentally stood them up, and Yaguruma and Kageyama are left in the street wondering if Tendou will come and if the challenge will still commence. During episode 43, the TheBee Zecter is once again offered to him by Tadokoro, but he declares that he is enjoying his stay in the pitch black hell, as he kicks the case containing the Zecter.

Kageyama and Yaguruma watch as Reiji Nogi advances into Area Z during episode 44, and Kageyama wants to help them fight. Yaguruma laughs at him for trying to be a hero. But later after meeting with Tendou and Kagami as they prepare to face Cassis Worm, he decides to help them as Cassis Worm Gradius defeated Kageyama (who went and fought earlier as TheBee for the last time) and Gatack. Thinking that Cassis Worm laughed at Kageyama, he tells Cassis Worm to laugh at him, as well. They perform a Triple Rider Kick and effectively neutralize his "Absorb" ability. Yaguruma later laughs at Kageyama for straying from the path of darkness and becoming TheBee, and so Kageyama returns to him, as Punch Hopper once again. Yaguruma displays his desire for the darkness during episode 45, he and Kageyama binding themselves with chains and weights so that they would not be able to fight for justice. Ignoring Tendou's request for assistance, he along with Kageyama sit and meditate, attempting to regain their darkness.

Along with Punch Hopper, Kick Hopper defeats one of the two Cassis Worm Clipeus in episode 46. The two Hoppers utilize the Rider Jump function to send Cassis Worm flying into the air, destroying him with a Rider Kick and Punch as he falls to the earth. After seeing a picture of the Northern Lights, Yaguruma begins to ponder returning to the light again. Upon seeing Kageyama with a Worm identification necklace, Yaguruma scolds him for using such a device (apparently aware of its effect on human). In episode 48, Yaguruma realizes that Kageyama has become a Native Worm and can no longer control his form. As a show of pity, he uses a Rider Kick to end Kageyama's suffering. Holding his fallen partner, Yaguruma looks up to the stars in the night sky and says that he and Kageyama will always be partners and that they have to regain the light once again. His ultimate fate was left up to the viewer as he was given an ambiguous resolution.

Kick Hopper

Unlike all of the other Riders in Kamen Rider Kabuto, the Kamen Rider Hopper Series Riders only have one form that they transform into. Kick Hopper has a green Acrida cinerea motif and by raising the legs on the Hopper Zecter (ホッパーゼクター, Hoppā Zekutā^?), Kick Hopper can jump high into the sky. By lowering the legs on the Hopper Zecter, the energy is concentrated into a tachyon-powered Rider Kick (ライダーキック, Raidā Kikku^?). The impact upon landing on the ground again powers up another kick.

Kamen Rider Gatack

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:01:14 +0100

Kamen Rider Gatack (仮面ライダーガタック Kamen Raidā Gatakku^?) is one of the main protagonists of Kamen Rider Kabuto. The motif is that of a "Kuwagatamushi" or stag beetle. The name is a portmanteau of "kuwagata" and "attack".

Kamen Rider Gatack - Rider Form

Kamen Rider Gatack - Masked Form

Arata Kagami

Arata Kagami (加賀美新, Kagami Arata^?, portrayed by Yuuki Sato) is Gatack's user. Joining ZECT two years to kill the Worm that murdered his younger brother Ryou Kagami, whom he made promise him to work hard to become a pitcher, Kagami is a field agent of ZECT who also works with Hiyori at Bistro La Salle. He has a good heart but is hot blooded and will often act without thinking about the repercussions of his actions. When the Kabuto Zecter is completed, Kagami attempted to become Kabuto but the Zector chose Tendou as its user. Being the only member of his group to know Tendou's identity as Kabuto, Kagami supported him much to the dismay of his team. While finding the restaurant filled with Matsuwa addressed to him, Kagami meets Jyuka as she takes him to the Tendou residence. By the time he realized he's slacking off, Arata runs off as Jyuka has him promise to come back as she tells him he's the first friend Tendou made.

But on his way back to the Bistro La Salle, Kagami meets Ryou whom he set up a meeting with tomorrow. However, Tendou contacted Misaki of this and she came to the conclusion that the Ryou that Kagami met is actually a Worm. The next day, Kagami confronts Tendou about it, telling him he'll kill the Worm himself if it's true. However, once Ryou reveals himself as the Bellcricetus Worm, the Worm that had killed and mimicked his brother, Kagami could not bring himself to kill it as its death would erase all that remained of Ryou. As Kabuto arrives to save, he doesn't fight back against the Bellcricetus Worm until Kagami is forced to allow him to kill the Worm. Losing the chance to honor his vow, Kagami makes a new one to suprass Tendou as he receives Ryou's baseball from him.

Kagami was later chosen by the TheBee Zecter to become Kamen Rider TheBee after it rejected the previous user, Sou Yaguruma, and reacted to his desperation to protect the wounded Shadow members. Kagami, however, gave up his role as TheBee after he was torn between the orders of ZECT to eliminate Kabuto and his budding friendship towards Tendou.

He later realized that Tendou did not want a friendship with him—after accepting this fact and renewing his pledge to destroy all Worms, Tendou let him back into his life. He was later framed by Shun Kageyama as being a traitor to ZECT, but this was simply to lure the real traitor out. He would have died if Tendou had not saved him. This incident ignites Kagami's will to destroy Worms on his own. Despite being only a field agent, he frequently takes on Worms armed only with his standard-issue collapsible pistol, or picks up a Machine Bladegun from a fallen ZECT Trooper. It is interesting to note that he is the first ZECT Agent to kill a Worm on his own by impaling it with the retractable bayonet of a Machine Bladegun on one occasion, and once with "Clocked-Up" help from Kabuto on another, which lead to a brief moment of bragging and re-telling the events which took place repeatedly, albeit with some exaggerations made and motivated other ZECT Troopers to join in.

Fictional character biography

Although he is given a chance to test the Gatack Zecter, he was attacked by it when it rejected him. When Kagami goes to rescue the young boy Makoto, whom he met in the warehouse, Makoto's true form is revealed to be Tarantes Worm. Tarantes Worm kills Kagami and leaves quickly. After the Worm leaves, a mystery man appears and equips Kagami's lifeless body with a Zecter belt. Kagami then revives due to the capability of the ZECT belt's energy field. Later, Kagami calls upon the Gatack Zecter and goes on to fight the Tarantes Worm only to be saved by him in the end by shielding him from the explosion detonated by the Shadow Troopers. This convinces him that Worms have a humane side to them; but is mocked when Kabuto tells him he's "naïve as usual." Gatack tells Kabuto that he is who he is and nothing can change that. His design looks similar to Kabuto's except he has mandible horns and is colored blue with red eyes. The voice of Gatack Zecter differs from the other Zecters. He decides to work together with Misaki and Tadokoro to find out the truth of the Masked Rider Project after he confronted Mishima.

During a battle, Kagami discovered the true identity of Tsurugi Kamishiro (Kamen Rider Sasword). After seeing Tsurugi's devotion to avenge his sister, Kagami decided to protect Tsurugi. This eventually caused a fight between Gatack and Kabuto to prevent Kabuto from killing Tsurugi. After this, Kagami and Tendou witnessed the transformation of Hiyori to a Worm. Despite her being a Worm, Kagami works together with Tendou to protect her. But their results end in failure as Hiyori disappears with the man in the iron mask. This incident leads Tendou into joining ZECT in order to destroy it from within and also starts collecting Zecters. Kagami does not believe in Tendou's method of collecting all the Zecters so he can save Hiyori. This eventually sparks a furious fight between Gatack and Kabuto, which Gatack ends up losing. Tendou wants Kagami to give up the Gatack Zecter but Kagami refuses, stating that Riders are meant to protect humans. Kagami is seemingly destroyed by Cammarus Worm in episode 34, but he is saved when Hyper Kabuto uses the Hyper Zecter, although unsure of its function, to reverse the flow of time and save his life. Even after this Tendou still told Kagami that they will fight one day to finish things.

Kagami is told by the ZECT HQ to protect Daigo Tachikawa at first, but Kagami soon discovers he is a Worm, but realizes then he realizes again that Daigo is not a Worm that destroys humans. Kagami later finds Daigo again, this time taking him to Tsurugi's house to heal him. However, after the short confrontation, Daigo realizes Tsurugi is a Worm and uses the Sasword Zecter to escape from him. Kagami was referred to by Tachikawa as Kagami Arata, the one who is chosen by the god of battle. This was also shown in the report found at Area X. During the battle with Cochlea Worm, Kabuto’s Red Shoes System activates, which leaves Gatack alone to try and stop him. Ultimately succeeding, they are attacked by the Hopper Riders shortly after and are defeated horribly. In the end however, Kagami and Tendou make a promise with each other, if Tendou goes berserk again and tries to kill Hiyori, Kagami will kill him, vice versa. Tendou also no longer wants to own the Gatack Zecter, for no one would be able to stop him if Kagami were to ever disappear.

Kagami's suspicions about ZECT begin to grow during episode 41 when they unknowingly escort a group of Natives. When they are attacked by Pupa Worms, the Natives attempt to escape, referring to Gatack as "The Top's son". Confused, he is the first one to meet Reiji Nogi, the executive class Worm that was able to defeat him in one attack. Kagami then goes to his father, and he tells him the origin of ZECT. Kagami discovers that the Natives came to earth 35 years ago and made an agreement to help create the Masked Rider system. In turn, ZECT would help protect the Natives against the Worms that would arrive later. His father tells him that his soul now belongs to the Native, and Kagami needs to be the one to carry it on. After hearing this, Kagami begins to fear that his sole existence is to be the catalyst for defeating Worms. Kagami's faith is further shattered when he discovers Tadakoro is a Native, thanks to the accidental exposure of AMB (Anti Mimic Bomb) gas. Shocked and dismayed, Kagami continues to wonder about why Tadakoro hid this secret, and so he is unable to fight.

In turn, he is defeated by both Pupa Worms and Nogi in a matter of minutes. Kagami is eventually led off by Misaki, but he is still angry at Tadakoro for hiding the fact that he is a Native. During episode 42, Kagami is chosen as the negotiator to rescue the Natives. Nogi has demanded that ZECT give up their last AMB and they will release the Natives, along with Tadakoro. Kagami, still angry at ZECT refuses and even gives up his Gatack Buckle. However, after Tendou talks to him, he realizes that his father wanted him to save the Natives, but at the time keeping the AMB. Realizing that he needs to catch his father's feelings, Kagami goes and meets Mishima, taking the AMB from him . Through trick and trap, they are able to rescue the Natives and protect the AMB, although Kagami is once again defeated by Nogi. Tendou arrives on the scene and displays his new power as he uses the Perfect Zecter Gun Mode to defeat Cassis Worm Dimidius.

After patching things up with Tadakoro, Kagami once again has a brighter outlook on life. While playing again at the baseball field, Kagami meets his father again, who shows that he does indeed love Kagami and plays catch with him. In turn, Kagami is finally able to accept his father's feelings. Soon after, Kagami meets Cassis Worm Gladius in battle, and his Rider Kick attack goes horribly wrong, with the kick being returned against Kagami. It is later discovered that Gladius and his Worm army are planning to assault Area Z, the place where the original Masked Rider System was created. After leaving the Hospital, Kagami discovers that Tendou is planning to lose to Dark Kabuto in order to find Hiyori's whereabouts, and immediately finds Tendou, shouting the sense back into him. Despite this, Tendou states that he cannot fight for Hiyori anymore, as she is happier with the fake. Kagami however, believes that Hiyori is trying to protect Tendou, and tells him that he needs to go after her. After Tendou leaves for Hiyori's world, Kagami goes on to fight Cassis Worm. He meets Kageyama who has once again become TheBee, but their attacks fail, and Nogi defeats them once more. Tendou is able to return to the battle before Tadokoro detonated Area Z. Gatack, Kick Hopper, and Kabuto then execute a three-way Rider Kick, effectively neutralizing Cassis Worm who was then destroyed by Hyper Kabuto.

Gatack is called upon to fight the Worms that are constantly appearing, but he is sidetracked after discovering that Misaki has agreed to Tsurugi's request for a date. Unwilling to tell her that Tsurugi is a Worm, he follows them on their date, only to discover that Tsurugi does indeed lose control, forcing Kagami to save Misaki. Despite this, both Tsurugi and Misaki end up being completely infuriated at Kagami. Misaki is astonished that Kagami knew all along Tsurugi was a Worm, but never told her. Tsurugi is mad at Kagami for similar reasons, that even though Kagami knew all this, he never told him. Kagami finally tells Tendou of Tsurugi true identity later, but still believes that he isn't entirely evil. Tendou on the other hand, decides to defeat him, as with all other Worms. After rushing off to meet Clipeus once again, Scorpio Worm rises from the sea and assaults Kagami. Kagami, unwilling to fight his friend, gets defeated. Meeting Tsurugi again, Kagami tries to convince him to live as a human again, handing him Misaki's present. However, Tsurugi punches Kagami out instead, and takes the Gatack Zecter. Kidnapping Kagami, Tsurugi attempts to destroy all the Zecters, but fails as Kagami and Tendou are able to regain their Zecters. While Tendou goes to fight Scorpio Worm, Kagami takes on one of the Clipeuses, effectively defeating him with a Rider Kick.

Kagami's father Riku has finally announced to the world, saying that the Worm threat is finally over. Kagami is given the task of delivering the necklaces that can warn humans when a Worm is near. However, he meets conflict in Tendou when Tendou states that there is something desperately wrong with the device. After multiple conflicts, Kagami is finally able to confront Tendou, but Tendou escapes, and only leaves an injured Renge behind. This leaves Kagami, Todokoro, and Misaki even more furious at Tendou for his unexplainable actions. Later on, Kagami encounters Tendou once more and demands to know his reasons for destroying the necklaces. Tendou states that they are turning humans into Natives, not believing this, Kagami and Tendou do battle. With the help of the ZECT Troopers, Kabuto is defeated. After defeating Kabuto, Kagami receives a call from Misaki, telling him that Mishima has taken over ZECT. Kagami then goes to rescue his father, who tells him that no matter what, he must believe Kabuto and fight alongside him.

During the final stage, Kagami finally realizes that the necklaces, along with Mishima's broadcast signals, are changing humans into Natives. After knowing Mishima's evil plot, Misaki and Tadokoro aided him. Kagami confronted Mishima and Negishi, only to be defeated by Mishima and is almost killed, until Tendou arrives on the scene. Kagami realizes that they are the only ones who can save the world now, and must do it no matter what. Together with Hyper Kabuto, they are able to destroy Mishima, thus ensuring the safety of the world. Within his last moments, Mishima collides with the meteorite, setting off an explosion and ruining their entire operation. After realizing the battle is over, he removes the Gatack Zecter, and letting it go, watches it fly away with the Kabuto Zecter to an unknown destintation. Kagami then falls to the ground with exhaustion, and as he is relaxing smiles, realizing the battle is finally over. After this, Tadokoro, Misaki, and Renge arrive. Misaki gives a hug to Kagami. Renge does the same to Tendou, giving both great surprise. Tadokoro stands to the side and smiles in victory. During the epilogue, it is shown that Kagami now lives a normal life as a police man, with his father still watching over him. As he is crossing children across the street, a young girl asks him, "Where did the man who walks Heaven's Path go?" Kagami smiles and replies that Tendou is currently out buying tofu. Kagami then looks to Tendou's house which he and the girl are standing in front of then at the sky in wonder.

Forms

The Gatack Zecter (ガタックゼクター, Gatakku Zekutā^?) allows Arata Kagami to transform into Kamen Rider Gatack. As with all of the Zecters, Gatack has two basic forms that he can transform into. Arata's Zecter has a higher-pitched voice than the other Zecters.

Masked Form

Gatack's Masked Form (マスクドフォーム, Masukudo Fōmu^?) is a heavily armored form resembling a pupa that has very little offensive capabilities. This is the default form that Gatack transforms into, until he opens up the horns on the Gatack Zecter, like a switch, to initiate the Cast Off (キャストオフ, Kyasuto Ofu^?) command.

Rider Form

Gatack's Rider Form (ライダーフォーム, Raidā Fōmu^?) is the sleeker and more offensive-based form which more resembles the stag beetle on which Gatack is named after and themed. It is in this form that Gatack has access to the Clock Up (クロックアップ, Kurokku Appu^?) command which allows Gatack to travel at near-light speeds to match the speeds of the Worms. By pressing a button three times buttons on the belt in succession, Gatack can perform his tachyon-powered Rider Kick (ライダーキック, Raidā Kikku^?), a jumping roundhouse kick. Gatack also has a Rider Cutting (ライダーカッティング, Raidā Kattingu^?) attack, where he takes the Gatack Double Calibers and uses them to perform a scissor-like cutting attack.

Hyper Form

Gatack's Hyper Form (ハイパーフォーム, Haipā Fōmu^?) was only seen in the Kamen Rider Kabuto Hyper Battle DVD Birth of Hyper Gatack. Its capabilities are the same as Kabuto Hyper Form.

Kamen Rider Sasword

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 07:57:53 +0100

Kamen Rider Sasword (仮面ライダーサソード Kamen Raidā Sasōdo^?) is one of the characters in Kamen Rider Kabuto. His name is a pun on sasori, the Japanese word for "scorpion" (his motif), and "sword". He is the only Rider in the show that is not based on an insect, but an arachnid.

Kamen Rider Sasword - Rider Form

Kamen Rider Sasword - Masked Form

Tsurugi Kamishiro

Tsurugi Kamishiro (神代剣, Kamishiro Tsurugi^?, portrayed by Yusuke Yamamoto) is a 20-year old man and descendant of the Discabil family of England. He calls himself "the man who replaces the gods (Kamishiro) with a sword's slash (Tsurugi)" when he introduces himself. He lives in a gorgeous European-style building with his butler Jiiya. He is good at sports, art, study, and many other skills, and has been seen to be able to understand and speak French, Chinese, and Italian in addition to English (he says "Shall we?" to Tendou when a fencing duel begins, and referring to Kagami as "[His] best friend" in English) and Japanese (although he mispronounces "ramen" as "La Men" and thinks that it is a French dish as well as some other words such as "tofu" as "tufu"). He always calls Kagami his friend (while pronouncing his name KaGAmi (カ・ガーミン), stressing the GA in his name) and Misaki as "Misakinu". Tsurugi wants to be the man who is best at everything, always saying, "I will stand on top of… (e.g. tasting, kendo, bowling etc.)". Unlike Tendou who quotes his grandmother, Tsurugi quotes his butler, Jiiya instead.

Tsurugi is also as arrogant as Souji, and proclaims that he will stand on top of everything, and that no laws can affect him (in fact, a traffic cop who pulled Jiiya over for speeding (as Tsurugi had an urgent job) only to be killed on the spot by a SalisWorm told him to put his seat belt on, and Tsurugi's failure to look before crossing a street resulted in an accident in which Souji's younger adopted sister Jyuka got hurt, and as the cops scorned him, he told them that the car carrying Jyuka should have gone ahead (much to the shock of the cops) and Souji punched him at Jiiya's white limousine for getting Jyuka hurt). He had an older sister named Mika (23 years old) who was killed by Scorpio Worm, and suffers nightmares as a result. The fact that Mika was killed near a field of red roses also sparked a disdain for roses. He has been employed to ZECT in exchange for the reward, but the monetary part of his contract was annulled when the Gatack system was first utilized. He aids Kabuto after he helped him realize that his butler Jiiya, was teaching him to be a better person now utilizing what his mentor taught him: that a noble act must be nobly returned, aka "noblesse oblige".

Fictional character biography

In truth, Tsurugi was killed on the same day as his sister by Scorpio Worm. Moments before his death, Scorpio Worm choose to mimic him. Through impossible odds however, Tsurugi's arrogant nature and personality overpowered Scorpio Worm's own, leading him to believe he was in fact Kamishiro Tsurugi, completely unaware of his Worm identity or that he had killed his sister. Jiiya later revealed he had been aware of his master's true identity, but believed it best to withhold the information in the hopes Scorpio Worm would never regain control and his master would continue to exist, one way or another. Shortly afterwards through unknown means, Tsurugi came into contact with the Sasword zecter and accepted his role as Kamen Rider Sasword with the goal of exterminating every last Worm.

Few episodes after his debut episodes, Tsurugi somehow turns into the comic relief in this series. Many episodes involve him trying to do some daily duty in a very ridiculous way, usually with his special theme playing. Tsurugi has only recently learned (from both Gon and Jiiya) that the Discabil family fortune is no more, and this confounded him deeply, so he is working hard to rebuild it. He now works at the Soba shop where Misaki always visit. He has a crush on her, to which she feels annoyed. In episode 26, Tsurugi meets the Worm who mimics Misaki (without him knowing the truth) and they enjoy a dance together. Uca Worm intervenes and defeats Sasword. Before she moves in the killing blow, the Misaki Worm saves him, which leads Tsurugi to realize her real identity. Later on, Tsurugi meets the Misaki Worm again and hands her his sister's red shoes. But for reason unknown, Misaki Worm attacks and scratches Tsurugi's face. Tsurugi reacts by stabbing the Sasword Yaiber through Misaki Worm, killing her while saying that he won't forgive any Worm.

Tsurugi sold his Sasword Yaiba and Zecter to Tendou in episode 33, but Jiya tells Kagami that without the Sasword Zecter, Tsurugi will surely become Scorpio Worm again. Kagami tries but ultimately fails in the end as Tendou defeats him. Tsurugi did this to help rebuild his Discabil family and he still has the legendary sword 'Discalibur' passed down from generations. When Tsurugi engages three Worms with it, he discovers that the sword is actually just a grip with no blade. The real sword was sold earlier to clear some debts of the family. However, Jiiya arrives in time to deliver the real sword to Tsurugi, which he uses to kill the Worms easily. Unfortunately for Tsurugi, the Discalibur is re-bought using the money for selling the Sasword Zecter and the money is not enough for it. Tsurugi sighs as he states that he does not understand money at all.

During episode 34-37, Tsurugi begins to go on journeys to learn about the common people's happiness because he must stand at the top of being "common". At first he dresses as a school boy for a day and experiences life in a different way, and although not his original intent, he realizes that the world does indeed contain good people after meeting Jyuka. In episode 37, Tsurugi enters Jyuka's school, stating that he stands on top of even 'poor citizen's' education. Tsurugi wants to experience the aspects of normal life, although Jiiya is always there to help him. Due to school policy, Jiiya was forcibly dragged out of the classroom many times to prevent him from helping Tsurugi. Tsurugi is also able to transform into Sasword again as he has retrieved his Sasword Yaiba from Tendou. Despite being able to call on the Sasword Zecter, the Perfect Zecter can still summon the Sasword Zecter when Hyper Kabuto calls for it, which led to an infuriated Tsurugi.

After Tsurugi realized that his love for Misaki would never be, he decided to do his best so that Kagami and Misaki would be happy together, unknowing that their love was just a setup. He then acts as Cupid and sets Kagami and Misaki on a date. Unfortunately, after meeting Misaki again and discovering that she and Kagami are not a couple, Tsurugi is captured by the Hopper Riders during episode 41. He was challenged and lost, receiving a Rider Kick and Punch to the head. He is then tricked into thinking that the Hopper Riders are his family and he is their little brother. The trio then eventually encounters Reiji Nogi who makes short work of them using "Freeze" to cause all their Rider Finishers to collide.

Abandoned by the Hoppers after fighting Nogi, Tsurugi begins to fall apart, but after Tendou tells him he does not see Misaki for who she is, but rather his sister, he realizes that he needs to accept her for herself. Refilled with spirit, he is able to convince Misaki to also see him for who he really is. When Misaki is attacked by Cassis Worm Gladius, Tsurugi came to rescue her, attacking the Worm with his Rider Slash. However, Cassis Worm Gladius absorbed the power of the finisher and used the absorbed power against Sasword, damaging both Misaki and Tsurugi. Tsurugi finally proves his worth by defending Misaki from an onslaught of attacks from Nogi, at the risk of his own body. Finally defeated, Tsurugi lies in shock as Misaki promises to accept him for who he is.

Tsurugi's assistance is also requested by Tendou in order to fight the massive onslaught of Worms, and so he joins ZECT and is given his own team of ZECT Troopers. However, he used them for the sole purpose of protecting Misaki, going so far as to dive into a river to find her missing shoe. Eventually however, his troopers abandoned him, saying it isn't worth it and they'd rather fight Worms.

On his way to his date, Tsurugi runs into Cassis Worm Clipeus who he does battle with. After being defeated, Tsurugi loses control of his body and once again becomes Scorpio Worm. After meeting Misaki and transforming into Scorpio Worm once, he is able to revert, but he does not know of his transformation. Clipeus appears again and forces another transformation, in turn causing Tsurugi to realize that he is indeed a Worm. After ripping up the scarf he made for Misaki and shouting at Jiiya, Tsurugi abandons hope and seemingly begins on a quest to destroy all Riders and be at the "top of the Worms".

Both Cassis Worm Clipeuses attempted Scorpio Worm a partnership with them, but Tsurugi outright refuses and tells them he's taking charge. With that, he attacks both Clipeuses, having them become his servants after overpowering them and telling them to gather all of the Worms under him. After having Kagami kidnapped, Tendou is sent a note saying that he must hand over all the Zecters or Kagami will die. As Tendou hands over the Zecters, Misaki appears along with massive amounts of ZECT Troopers, allowing enough time for the Zecters to escape after seemingly crushed but actually receiving no damage at all. During the ensuing battle that took out most of the Worms, as he truly intended from the start, Tsurugi allows Tendou to destroy him so that his wish of all Worms being destroyed and vengeance for his sister may be granted. Back at his mansion, a dying Tsurugi sits on an older wicker chair as Jiiya rushes to his side. As he sees his servant, Tsurugi asks if it's okay for him to dream, Jiiya replies that it is and promises that he will always be by his side. Hearing those words, Tsurugi closes his eyes, goes limp, and drifts off to death. During the epilogue, a restaurant is named in his honor, being run by both Misaki and Jiiya.

Forms

The Sasword Zecter (サソードゼクター, Sasōdo Zekutā^?) allows Tsurugi Kamishiro to transform into Kamen Rider Sasword. As with all of the Zecters, Sasword has two basic forms that the user can transform into.

Masked Form

Sasword's Masked Form (マスクドフォーム, Masukudo Fōmu^?) is a heavily armored form that has very little offensive capabilities. This is the default form that Sasword transforms into, until Tsurugi pressed down the tail of the Sasword Zecter, initiating the Cast Off (キャストオフ, Kyasuto Ofu^?) command.

Rider Form

Sasword's Rider Form (ライダーフォーム, Raidā Fōmu^?) is the sleeker and more offensive-based form which more resembles the scorpion on which Sasword is named after and themed. It is in this form that Sasword has access to the Clock Up (クロックアップ, Kurokku Appu^?) command which allows Sasword to travel at near-light speeds to match the speeds of the Worms. By lifting and closing the tail-like switch on the Sasword Zecter, Sasword activates the Rider Slash (ライダースラッシュ, Raidā Surashhu^?) attack.

kamen rider drake

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 07:54:21 +0100

Kamen Rider Drake (仮面ライダードレイク Kamen Raidā Doreiku) is one of the characters of Kamen Rider Kabuto. The motif is of a dragonfly; his name is a pun on that, as "Drake" has dragon connotations.

Kamen Rider Drake - Rider Form

Kamen Rider Drake - Masked Form

Daisuke Kazama

Daisuke Kazama (風間大介, Kazama Daisuke^?, portrayed by Kazuki Kato) is a 22-year old man. He loves women and fights to protect a little girl, nicknamed 'Gon' (from the Japanese term Nanashi no Gonbee , or a nameless person), who has amnesia. He has incredible make up skill that can change even the ugliest girl into a goddess. This is mostly done by his ultimate technique, Ultimate Make Up. He describes himself as wind, which always goes around flowers.

Fictional character biography

He is a new and inexperienced Rider, lacking the knowledge about Worms. He is not a member of ZECT and is often a target of their attacks because of this. He also acts rather impulsively. Daisuke is not content being a Rider. He only transforms in order to protect himself, Gon, or women. When Gon is kidnapped by Shun Kageyama (the third Kamen Rider TheBee), Daisuke goes to all lengths trying to save her. He was blackmailed into fighting Kabuto, and became the first Rider who managed to deal some trouble to Kabuto. He eventually is helped by Tendou, Kagami, Hiyori and Yuzuki. During his quest to save Gon, he meets a woman whom he later discovers is Gon's mother. Daisuke meets the woman to return Yuriko Takayama (Gon's real name) to her mother Junko, but was interrupted by the Viella Worm, the same Worm that attacked Junko and Yuriko, causing the amnesia. Daisuke protects the mother and daughter, but was separated from Gon during the commotion. Daisuke defeats the Viella Worm, but only before Gon regains her memories as Yuriko, completely treating Daisuke as a stranger. He leaves for an unknown destination after the Gon incident, and after a long absence, returns in Episode 25.

Drake, along with Kageyama as Kamen Rider TheBee, was the first Rider to utilize the full body Put On system. They both performed this to try and defeat the Uca Worm, but she still defeated them. It is revealed that he is suspected of being the murderer of a rival make-up artist and is being pursued by the police. In addition, there are multiple clones of him running around the city. A Worm imitating Daisuke fakes its death in human form to convince the other Riders that the real Daisuke is a Worm. After losing to the other four Riders, Daisuke lost the Drake Grip. Kageyama made it look like he was returning the Grip to Daisuke, but the Worms instead takes the Drake Grip and transforms with it. After Kabuto knocks the Drake Zecter Gun out of the Worm's hand, the Zecter flees, undoing the transformation, and Gon retrieves the Grip, returning it to the real Daisuke, who defeats the Worm. With this incident, Drake joins the battle against the Worms and acknowledges Gon as his "aibo" (translated into "partner" even though he couldn't remember the term). The Worm was left-handed while the real Daisuke was right-handed.

Gon gave the Drake Grip to Tendou during episode 33. At first Tendou thought that Daisuke had given up the Drake Grip without a fight, but Gon reveals that she took it without permission. If "the man who walks the path of heaven" says it must be done, then it must be done. Tendou then uses the grip to call upon the Drake Zecter, catching it with one finger. After Tendou released the Zecters he had once collected, Daisuke returns after a long absence and meets Rena Mamiya after her memory was erased by Tendou due to the Hyper Sting attack. He meets Rena several times, and they seemingly fall in love, with Daisuke helping her all the time. Even after remembering that Rena was a Worm, he says that the Rena currently is not a Worm, but a changed person. His fury driving him, he brings out his reacquired Drake Grip and assaults Tendou, only to be disturbed from their fight when another Worm attacks Rena. Although Daisuke strives to protect Rena from the Riders and Worms after her, he ultimately fails after saving her from Kamen Rider Punch and Kick Hoppers. Their extended battle triggered Rena's Worm memories once again, returning her to the evil creature she once was. Her human half fights for control however, and so she injures Daisuke but heals him back all the same.

Daisuke, having a kind heart, asked what was her dream when she was a human, hoping to make it come true. He knows Rena is a Worm, but decides to protect her all the same, saying that she isn't pure evil. Working together, Daisuke manages to get Rena to perform on stage, making her dream of holding a concert come true, albeit not having an audience. Rena then tells Daisuke, after all this is over, he needs to make the right choice and destroy her, for she can no longer live as a human without endangering others. Daisuke, faced with a tough decision, makes a heart-paining choice and destroys Uca Worm by shooting a Clocked Up Rider Shooting at her, sending her to a regular speed Rider Shooting that he fired earlier. He held her in his hands as she died, once again with a human heart.

Drake makes a brief appearance in episode 45, fighting the massive onslaught of Worms that have begun to appear all over the city. Daisuke makes one final appearance in the epilogue, and although no longer a Rider, he is still the same outgoing person he always was. Daisuke continues to travel with Gon, who now insists on being called by her real name, Yuriko

Daigo Tachikawa

Forms

The Drake Zecter (ドレイクゼクター, Doreiku Zekutā^?) allows Daisuke Kazama to transform into Kamen Rider Drake. As with all of the Zecters, Drake has two basic forms that the user can transform into.

Masked Form

Drake's Masked Form (マスクドフォーム, Masukudo Fōmu^?) is a heavily armored form resembling a nymph that has very little offensive capabilities. This is the default form that Drake transforms into, until Daisuke pulls a trigger on the end of the Drake Zecter, initiating the Cast Off (キャストオフ, Kyasuto Ofu^?) command. Drake's Masked Form also has significant underwater capabilities.

Rider Form

Drake's Rider Form (ライダーフォーム, Raidā Fōmu^?) is the sleeker and more offensive-based form which more resembles the dragonfly on which Drake is named after and themed. It is in this form that Drake has access to the Clock Up (クロックアップ, Kurokku Appu^?) command which allows Drake to travel at near-light speeds to match the speeds of the Worms. By folding back the wings on the Drake Zecter (the top halves forming a "scope" that can be used for targeting), Drake activates the Rider Shooting (ライダーシューティング, Raidā Shūtingu^?) blast attack.

Kamen Rider Zabee

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 07:54:55 +0100

Kamen Rider TheBee (仮面ライダーザビー Kamen Raidā Zabī) is one of the characters in Kamen Rider Kabuto. It is based on a bee/wasp motif.Similar to the Hopper Riders, it relies on close-range combat because of the lack of any weapons.

Kamen Rider TheBee - Rider Form

Kamen Rider TheBee - Masked Form

Sou Yaguruma

Shun Kageyama

Arata Kagami

Masato Mishima

Masato Mishima (三島正人, Mishima Masato^?) temporarily used the TheBee Zecter after Kageyama's transformation canceled in the fight against Formicaalubus Worm Maxilla in episode 16. Despite the Zecter's attempt to reject him, he did a superhuman jump into the air, caught the fleeing Zecter, and forced the transformation. He is the strongest of the TheBee Zecter's wearers, capable of taking out the Formicaalubus Worm with bare punches. After defeating the Worm, the Zecter returns to Kageyama.

Forms

The TheBee Zecter (ザビーゼクター, Zabī Zekutā) allows its user to transform into Kamen Rider TheBee. As with all of the Zecters, TheBee has two basic forms that the user can transform into.

Masked Form

TheBee's Masked Form (マスクドフォーム, Masukudo Fōmu) is a heavily armored form resembling a beehive that has very little offensive capabilities. This is the default form that TheBee transforms into, until the user rotates the TheBee Zecter around its wrist mounting to initiate the Cast Off (キャストオフ, Kyasuto Ofu) command.

Rider Form

TheBee's Rider Form (ライダーフォーム, Raidā Fōmu) is the sleeker and more offensive-based form which more resembles the wasp on which TheBee is named after and themed. It is in this form that TheBee has access to the Clock Up (クロックアップ, Kurokku Appu command which allows TheBee to travel at near-light speeds to match the speeds of the Worms. By pulling back the wings on the TheBee Zecter and pressing a button, the Rider Sting (ライダースティング, Raidā Sutingu tachyon-powered punch is activated, allowing the user to pierce through a Worm with the stinger on the TheBee Zecter.

Kamen Rider Kabuto

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:07:53 +0100

Souji Tendou (天道総司, Tendō Sōji^?, portrayed by Hiro Mizushima), the Zecter's wearer, is a mysterious, quiet 21-year old man who often seems to follow monk-like philosophies of peace. His name literally means "He who walks heaven's path (Tendou), rules it all (Souji)" and he always uses it to introduce himself ("The man who will rule the world walks the path of heaven"). Tendou often spouts amazingly appropriate zen-like phrases he supposedly learned from his grandmother, prefacing them with "My grandmother once told me". He also often does a 'point to the sky' pose, usually after he defeats a Worm or introduces himself. Tendou has no actual job and does not attend college because he believes that he is destined for something bigger (which is becoming Kabuto). Despite having many talents (from cooking to hairstyling to excelling at various sports to the extent that he can handle entire teams alone), he is usually uninterested in pursuing anything until his belt activates. He calls himself a "National Treasure" and "Universal Treasure". Tendou stays in a big home with his little sister Jyuka, loves cooking, and seems to have an interest in Kagami's co-worker, Hiyori. As a result, he is a regular customer at

Bistro La Salle. Because of his abilities and outlook, combined with his talent of being a step ahead of those around him, Tendou is somewhat rude, and exceedingly arrogant at first glance. However, this serious personally holds back the caring emotions he has for others. His feelings for his two sisters is among the few things that can break his serious demeanor, as Kusakabe Hiyori is also Tendou Souji's little sister. However, Souji's parents were murdered and mimicked by Natives years before the Worms arrived on Earth, and although the original Kusakabe Hiyori died with them before birth she was soon "reborn" as a Native/Worm.

Fictional character biography

However, deep down, Tendou actually cares for other people and helps them when in need (in fact, in Episode 20, he punched Tsurugi for not looking before crossing the street, as that caused an accident in which Jyuka got hurt). He possesses an uncanny ability to see through the Worms disguises as well as detect if there are any nearby without the use of any devices. Tendou acts mercilessly against Worms, saying that as long as they are Worms, they will be destroyed. It is not until episode 15, after defeating Kageyama and seeing him as unfit to be a leader, that he joins ZECT (under the comical pseudonym "Soujiro Tendouji"), even wearing a full Shadow ZECT Trooper uniform, though he quits by the end of episode 16 - his tenure with ZECT was merely a means of locating some Worms. Tendou possesses powerful strength and is stronger than any other Riders in every way, from searching for Worms to battling. Tendou's arrogant attitude and superior power usually results in great dislike from the other Riders, resulting in fighting between the Riders, although Kabuto almost always defeats them easily. During episode 23, Kabuto utilizes a partial Put-On after fighting Kamen Rider Sasword, with the end result being him as the victor.

A Hyper Kabuto from the future appeared in episode 28, and seemingly orchestrated a plan with Tendou to fake Hiyori's death, which worked quite well for all of ten minutes. Tendou later picks up Hiyori and comforts her, telling her his back-story and that they are related. His parents were mimicked and killed, and at the time his mother was pregnant. The name Tendou came from his grandmother who took him in after his real parents died, and that his real name was Souji Kusakabe. He met his parents as Worms again on the day of the Shibuya accident. He had planned to take revenge on them but once he saw Hiyori, he changed his mind and decided to save her. Tendou discovers Kagami eavesdropping on their conversation and so he asks Kagami, which side will he stand on. Tendou wants to destroy all Worms so that Hiyori may live as herself, and Kagami eventually agrees to help Tendou as well. Hiyori however, is attracted to Area X by the sound of the man in the iron mask. The man was previously a test subject of the Hyper Zecter, but the Zecter went out of control, flinging both of them to the edge of time and space.

Tendou proceeds in collecting all the Zecters as he believes the only way to save Hiyori is to ensure that he is the only Rider. He obtains the TheBee Zecter after Kick Hopper defeated him in battle, Tsurugi trades Tendou the Sasword Zecter for cash, and Gon gives Tendou the Drake Grip. Tendou joins ZECT in order to further his quest in gaining all the Zecters and preventing Hiyori from being destroyed as he plans to destroy ZECT from within. However, Kagami disagrees and says Riders are there to fight Worms and protect humans. This ends up sparking a fight between the two in which Gatack ends up losing. At first, Tendou wanted to trade Mishima all four of his Zecters for the Hyper Zecter, but Mishima refuses and laughs at him. Tendou eventually gains the Hyper Zecter after Renge steals it for him. Mishima had the suitcase booby trapped to destroy any evidence of the Hyper Zecter, and detonates the suitcase while it is in Uca Worm's hands. However, the Hyper Zecter reverses the flow of time and appears to Tendou. Through the use of Hyper Clock Up, although unclear of its function, Tendou saves Kagami who is seemingly destroyed by the Cammarus Worm. Tendou says that he will master the Hyper Zecter and cross over time, and when that time comes, he will save Hiyori.

A mysterious man called Tachikawa Daigo tells Tendou to stop collecting the Zecters, saying that if the Riders do not fight Worms, the Natives will be in trouble. Tendou realizes that Tachigawa is a 'Native' and guards him, as Tachigawa seems to know Hiyori's whereabouts. Riku Kagami calls on Tendou and tells Tendou the story of The Red Shoes, explaining that the Zecters will drive them insane if they refuse to fight Worms. Tachikawa referred to Tendou by his real name, Souji Kusakabe, the one who is chosen by Kabuto, the god of the sun who controls the light. After Kabuto saves Daigo from a group of Worms, he experiences the 'berserk switch', almost killing Daigo in the process. The Hopper Riders arrive on scene and defeat them instead, leaving with a cruel laugh. Unfortunately, Tachigawa is still killed by Cochlea Worm after trying to escape. He tells Tendou to 'find the solar eclipse' and dies. Tendou and Kagami then promise to kill each other if they were ever under the effects of the Red Shoes System again. Tendou then decided to release all the Zecters that he has obtained from others.

Later on, Tendou is challenged by two Executive Worm to defeat a powerful Worm without the use of Hyper Clock Up, and in return the Executives would tell him the secrets of the Natives. Tendou remarked that his power always evolving and is faster than light and called upon the Perfect Zecter. Utilizing the power of all 4 Zecters, he defeated Lepotophyes Worm, but was taken through an involuntary Hyper Clock Up to a place 'devoid of all time' with the solar eclipse. After seeing a fleeting image of Hiyori with another man, he is pulled back into his dimension. Tendou is then left wondering why he still cannot control Hyper Clock Up. Back at the Bistro la salle, Rena challenges Tendou once more in hopes of taking the Hyper Zecter, but her memory gets erased due to Tendou's Hyper Sting attack. Drake and Kabuto end up fighting each other because Daisuke doesn't believe that Rena is still evil. After Rena loses her fragment of the Shibuya Meteorite, Tendou picks it up and is taken through another Hyper Clock Up to Hiyori's dimension again. After confronting his Worm counterpart, Dark Kabuto, their Rider Kick collision forces Kabuto back to the real world.

Tendou discovers the secret behind the Masked Rider System after conversing with Kagami, learning that it was created by Native's and given to humans who in turned formed ZECT. Through the use of this technology, they fight alien Worms and protect the Natives. It is also revealed that Tendou received his Kabuto Buckle from the Native who mimicked his father. They are also able to conclude that the Natives arrived on a meteorite 35 years ago to assist the humans with the Masked Rider System. Even after learning all this, Tendou's sole resolve is still to defeat all Worms so that Hiyori may be safe. Tendou meets Reiji Nogi as well, and seemingly holds up a much better fight than Kagami until Nogi activates Freeze, defeating the power of Hyper Clock Up, forcing Tendou back into Rider form. During their second battle, Tendou learns from his mistakes and anticipates Nogi's use of Freeze. After getting knocked back, Tendou's Hyper Shooting is still active and stuns Nogi temporarily. Tendou is then able to use the Perfect Zecter's Maximum Hyper Cyclone to defeat Cassis Worm Dimidius, only to have him evolve into a stronger form, Cassis Worm Gladius.

Kabuto and Dark Kabuto meet again during episode 43, and this time, Tendou wants to purposely lose to Dark Kabuto so that he may somehow discover Hiyori's location. However, after realizing this plan made him seem like a coward and a small man, his fighting spirit returns and he defeats Dark Kabuto, only to be interrupted by Hiyori who transforms into Sisrya Worm. She states that she is fine with living in another dimension and proceeds to defend Dark Kabuto. After Hiyori leaves, Tendou explains to Kagami that the only way for her to be happy is to let her leave with the fake Kabuto. Renge arrives with news however, that the entrance to the other world is opened when the solar eclipse occurs. Soon after, Tendou and Kagami both rush for Area Z in hopes of defeating Cassis Worm. There, they see Sasword defending Misaki using his life, and Kagami tells Tendou that Hiyori is acting the same way. She doesn't want to hurt Tendou anymore and so she tries to convince herself that she doesn't want to come back. Tendou, moved by this, leaves and goes after Hiyori as a solar eclipse starts.

After chasing Hiyori back to her dimension, Tendou is able to convince her that Worms are not the evil ones, only the ones that wish to do harm are, and he will always protect her and be by her side. Tendou then talks about how Riders fight for the good of humanity, and she will always be protected. After realizing the one who really cares about her is Tendou, she leaves Kusakabe Souji and returns to the human world. Kabuto then goes to find Gatack, on the brink of defeat. Coordinating a three-way Rider Kick with Kick Hopper and Gatack, they are able to neutralize Cassis Worm while Hyper Kabuto finishes him off with Maximum Hyper Cyclone. After discovering that Hiyori has been injured once again, he takes her to hospital, but she seemingly hides the fact that Dark Kabuto was the one that injured her. Leaving Hiyori, Tendou, along with Riku and Mishima, meet with Negishi, possibly the leader of the Natives. He asks Tendou if he will help the Natives, and then decides to be Tendou's fan.

Soon after, massive groups of Worm begin appearing again, and Tendou goes to defeat them. Tendou attempts to recruit other Riders in an effort to fight the Worms, but when he appears before Kageyama and Yaguruma, he finds them attempting to regain their darkness and quickly leaves, thinking that they are crazy. Tendou meets Nogi once again, this time as Cassis Worm Clipeus, but is unable to fight him as Nogi runs away soon after. After conversing with Kagami and Misaki back at the Bistro, Tendou learns Tsurugi is a Worm and automatically decides to defeat him. Kagami however, disagrees, saying there is still good in him. While Kagami leaves to fight Clipeus, Tendou goes and meets Jiiya, learning of a promise that he must fulfill. Tendou meets Tsurugi after talking with Jiiya and agrees to trade all the Zecters in exchange for Kagami's life. At the last moment, the Zecters are able to escape, and Tendou engages Scorpio Worm in battle. Preparing for the final blow using the Perfect Zecter, Tsurugi suddenly appears from Scorpio Worm telling Tendou to fulfill his promise. Understanding that Tsurugi wants to destroy all Worms, Tendou activates Maximum Hyper Typhoon, slashing through Scorpio Worm's body.

As Riku announces that the threat of the Worms will finally come to an end to the public, ZECT begins handing out Worm identification necklaces that alert the wearer of nearby Worms. Upon learning this, Tendou begins destroying the necklaces. By destroying the necklaces, the public begins to fear and hate Kabuto. Kabuto and Dark Kabuto once again do battle, interrupting Tendou's quest to destroy the necklaces. Anticipating Dark Kabuto's attack method, Kabuto is able to defeat him by using Hyper Clock Up along with the Maximum Hyper Typhoon. Returning to destroying the necklaces, Gatack tries to persuade Kabuto to stop, but Kabuto simply tells him something is not right about the necklaces and continues destroying them until a blocked bullet from Tadakoro's gun goes stray and hits Renge. Kabuto then fires at Gatack and escapes the area, leaving an infuriated Tadakoro to care for an injured Renge.

Continuing on his mission of destroying the Worm identification necklaces, Tendou ends up rescuing Dark Kabuto from the clutches of Mishima and Negishi, who have taken over ZECT. After saving Dark Kabuto, Gatack finds Kabuto and demands to know the reason behind the destruction of the necklaces. Kabuto reveals that the necklaces are turning humans into Natives and must be destroyed. Not believing this, Gatack attacks Kabuto and defeats him with the help of the ZECT Troopers. Lying under the rubble of the battle field, Tendou recalls his words to Hiyori of him always being by her side. As he reaches for a lone flower, the rubble from atop him falls and apparently crushes him. It is revealed that Tendou was indeed still alive after all. He uses the very same lone flower to destroy the controls, causing the meteorite that was turning humans into Natives to overload. Afterwards, Tendou gives a powerful speech to convert the Native ZECT Troopers to his side. Then Hyper Kabuto defeats Mishima/Gryllus Worm together with Gatack, escaping the first explosion as an irritated Negishi was intend to make Tendou pay for ruining everything he sought to obtain. Dark Kabuto then rushes out at the last moment, telling Tendou to protect their world as he drags Negishi back into the explosion that killed them both. Realizing the battle is over, Tendou releases the Kabuto Zecter, and Kagami soon follows suit, the two then watch the Zecters fly away to an unknown destination. Tendou then tells Kagami to listen to what he is about to say, for he will only do so once. Tendou then goes on to say that to walk the same path is merely a test of perseverance. Tendou then says, "But reaching different paths together is..." Kagami then interrupts, calling Tendou "Friend", and asking him if his grandmother gave him this quote. Tendou smiles and states that those are his words. The two are then greeted by Tadakoro, Renge, and Misaki. Renge leaps to Tendou and gives him a hug, causing Tendou to nearly fall backwards in surprise. Tendou then resumes a normal life. During the epilogue, Tendou is shown in Paris improving his cooking skills, giving his trademark introduction to a frenchman who recognized him and asked him if he's the famous Souji Tendou.

Forms

The Kabuto Zecter (カブトゼクター, Kabuto Zekutā^?) allows Souji Tendou to transform into Kamen Rider Kabuto. As with all of the Zecters, Kabuto has two basic forms that he can transform into.

Masked Form

Kabuto's Masked Form (マスクドフォーム, Masukudo Fōmu^?) is a heavily armored form resembling a pupa that has very little offensive capabilities. This is the default form that Kabuto transforms into, until he flips the "horn" on the Kabuto Zecter, like a switch, to initiate the Cast Off (キャストオフ, Kyasuto Ofu^?) command.

Rider Form

Kabuto's Rider Form (ライダーフォーム, Raidā Fōmu^?) is the sleeker and more offensive-based form which more resembles the Japanese rhinoceros beetle on which Kabuto is named after and themed. It is in this form that Kabuto has access to the Clock Up (クロックアップ, Kurokku Appu^?) command which allows Kabuto to travel at near-light speeds to match the speeds of the Worms. By pressing three buttons on the belt in succession, Kabuto can perform his tachyon-powered Rider Kick (ライダーキック, Raidā Kikku^?), a roundhouse kick from a standing position. This Rider Kick also can be released as flying side kick.

Hyper Form

Kabuto is the only Rider in Kabuto (with the exception of Gatack in the Hyper Battle DVD) who can become Hyper Form (ハイパーフォーム, Haipā Fōmu^?), a stronger version of Rider Form. Accessed through the Hyper Cast Off (ハイパーキャストオフ, Haipā Kyasuto Ofu^?) command, it has a Hyper Clock Up (ハイパークロックアップ, Haipā Kurokku Appu^?) that can travel fast enough to go back through time and a flying Rider Kick Hyper Rider Kick (ハイパーライダーキック, Haipā Raidā Kikku^?).

Kamen Rider Dark Kabuto

Kamen Rider Dark Kabuto (仮面ライダーダークカブト, Kamen Raidā Dāku Kabuto^?) is one of the major antagonists in Kamen Rider Kabuto. Similar to Kabuto, its design is based on a "Kabutomushi" or Japanese rhinoceros beetle.

Kamen Rider Dark Kabuto - Rider Form

Kamen Rider Dark Kabuto - Masked Form

Souji Kusakabe

Souji Kusakabe (日下部総司, Kusakabe Sōji^?, portrayed by Hiro Mizushima) was originally an human infant used in Negishi's experiments in hopes of turning all of humanity into Natives, turned into a Worm that mimicked version of Tendou in order to be used by Mishima in the testing of the Hyper Zecter. Because of his origins, Souji seems to be a kind and innocent person, but can become as equally cruel to those whom he can't forgive.

Because he mimicked Tendou, Souji possesses the Dark Kabuto Zecter, a Zecter that mirrors the Kabuto Zecter. His Rider Form is similar to Kabuto's, but he has yellow eyes and his color has changed to black, with the exception of the top of his head, chest, and shoulders which contains dark red circuits which light up upon Cast-Off.

Fictional character biography

When Kabuto is carried to this dimension, the mimic Souji stands by Hiyori defensively, angered by the presence of Kabuto. Calling upon the Dark Kabuto Zecter, he changes into Dark Kabuto and prepares to fight Kabuto. During his first battle, he and Tendou initiate similar Rider Kicks, resulting in Tendou being defeated and flung back to real world.

During episode 42, Dark Kabuto arrives in the real world through a bolt of lightning, and walks away with a childish look on his face. Later in episode 43, he appears before Kagami and others, stating that he's going to eliminate the other self. The mimic Souji eventually meets the real Tendou and the two engage in battle. The real Souji decides to allow himself to be defeated and thus when Dark Kabuto returns to the universe Hiyori is trapped in, Renge can track the portal and find Hiyori. When Tendou is on the brink of defeat, Gatack saves him and manages to convince him to fight Dark Kabuto, saying that he cannot allow himself to be defeated like that. Kabuto, now renewed with will to fight, defeats Dark Kabuto using the Hyper Zecter. However, Hiyori appears after a solar eclipse and says that she is happy to stay with Dark Kabuto in another world. After doing so, Hiyori changes into Sisrya Worm and prepares to protect Dark Kabuto.

After Hiyori and Dark Kabuto return to their dimension, they meet up with Tendou once again, who says that Hiyori should come back. The mimic Souji asks Tendou if he can truly keep his promise of always being by Hiyori's side, and Tendou says he can't. However, he will protect Hiyori for as long as he can, fighting all those who do evil to the world, not because they are Worms. Soon after, Hiyori leaves and abandons Dark Kabuto, who later returns to the real world and assault Hiyori for her betrayal. He seen encounters the two Reiji Nogi clones as they offer an allience, telling Dark Kabuto that he does not know who he truly is. Refusing, Dark Kabuto leaves in a frenzy after attempting to fight the Nogis. After returning in episode 47 to challenge Tendou, he is defeated by Hyper Kabuto. The unconscious mimic Souji is then captured by Mishima once again.

After being tormented by Mishima and Negishi, who both state that he is a failure, he goes into an outrage, attacking Mishima as he learns his true origins and why. During this moment, Tendou appears and uses Clock Up to rescue his mimic. However, the mimic escapes once again, only to meet Mishima once more. As Mishima transforms into Gryllus Worm, the strongest Native, Dark Kabuto charges at him and is defeated.

After Dark Kabuto is captured once again by Mishima, it is revealed that they plan to drain his power and combine it with a fragment of the meteorite in order to convert the entirety of humanity into Natives. During the final moments, Dark Kabuto rushes out and captures Negishi, dragging him back into the explosion as Dark Kabuto assumes his true form, telling Tendou that he is leaving and ensures him with protecting this world now.

Forms

Souji Kusakabe Holding a Dark Kabuto Zecter

The Dark Kabuto Zecter (ダークカブトゼクター, Dāku Kabuto Zekutā^?) allows Souji Kusakabe to transform into Kamen Rider Kabuto. As with all of the Zecters, Kabuto has two basic forms that he can transform into.

Masked Form

Dark Kabuto's Masked Form (マスクドフォーム, Masukudo Fōmu^?) is a heavily armored form resembling a pupa that has very little offensive capabilities. This is the default form that Kabuto transforms into, until he flips the "horn" on the Dark Kabuto Zecter, like a switch, to initiate the Cast Off (キャストオフ, Kyasuto Ofu^?) command.

Rider Form

Dark Kabuto's Rider Form (ライダーフォーム, Raidā Fōmu^?) is the sleeker and more offensive-based form which more resembles the Japanese rhinoceros beetle on which Dark Kabuto is named after and themed. It is in this form that Dark Kabuto has access to the Clock Up (クロックアップ, Kurokku Appu^?) command which allows Dark Kabuto to travel at near-light speeds to match the speeds of the Worms. By pressing three buttons on the belt in succession, Dark Kabuto can perform his tachyon-powered Rider Kick called the Dark Rider Kick (ダークライダーキック, Dāku Raidā Kikku^?), a roundhouse kick from a standing position.