English Dub Review: Tojima Wants to Be a Kamen Rider “An Imposter Can’t Beat the Real Deal”

Overview (Spoilers Below):
Thunder Raiko finally comes for Yukarisu.  Will the Riders be able to protect her from the Shocker assassin?

Our Take:
After a quick detour in character focus, this week’s episode shifts back to Tojima and the Kamen Rider crew as they face their toughest battle yet.  However, unlike their previous fights, their latest opponent will not only test their strengths but also their mentality in their pursuit of becoming Kamen Riders.  The enemy I’m referring to is Thunder Raiko, who hasn’t appeared since the eleventh episode, “Tackle is the Strongest”.  This formidable Shocker combatant was first introduced in the eighth episode, showcasing her undeniable strength in assassinating members who were free of the organization’s brainwashing.  But, to my surprise, she was taking her sweet, sweet time in finding her next target: Yukarisu. I’m not joking when I say that it took Raiko eight episodes to locate the former Shocker member-turned-ally of the Kamen Rider crew.
Fortunately, this anticipated showdown turned out to be worth the wait, and it’s not just because of Raiko’s resolve and the sudden appearance of the Bat Man.  It’s mainly because of Tojima’s development, as he reaches the crucial moment that makes him question his dream and even his mortality.  Tojima has always admired Kamen Rider for his resilience, leading him to believe that the masked hero’s bravery stems from not running away from a fight.  However, his first retreat against Shocker and Nakao’s warning makes him realize that he may not have what it takes to become Kamen Rider.  There’s also the matter of Bat Man and Thunder Raiko, whose combined strength could make him and the others reconsider their desires as they realize that they’re dealing with more than just make-believe.  These elements are enough to make this episode a solid return of the Kamen Rider crew following their two-episode absence.