By shifting this event away from the main series' narrative (and after the end of this mini-series, Sakai has promised that we'll go back to the ongoing series), it gives him room to go for broke while not actually breaking the setup that he's carefully put together. 'Usagi Yojimbo: Senso' #1 is in many ways the sort of event that it would be quite difficult to come back from.

That's in no small part why having this story set in the far future is important. The balance is not just being upset with Sakai's new surprise, it's threatening to crumble. With even that mostly-protective technology being referred to by some as an abomination and dishonorable, we're given an instant understanding for why the introduction of something even greater is such a crucial moment within the world. Sakai carefully sets up the world-shaking final page earlier in the issue, with the introduction of the Kameyama (Turtle Mountain), and the reaction that Noriyuki has to a steam-powered tank of sorts. 'Usagi Yojimbo: Senso' #1 promises to be quite different than a regular story with these characters, and not just because of the time jump. And then, Sakai pulls the rug out from under the reader on the last page. The end for one of these two sides is imminent. A new weapon is being introduced that could turn the tide of war. Jotaro leads one of Noriyuki's forces, with Gen as a general as well with another of the forces. Usagi is now a general and part of the Geishu Clan. Jumping 20 years into the future, 'Usagi Yojimbo: Senso' #1 opens with the forces of Noriyuki and Hikiji preparing for what could be their final battle.

Usagi yojimbo senso