I know that this project has numerous handsome men, and that they're divided into groups like the Oda Forces and Uesugi-Takeda Forces, yet each group has its own distinct characteristics.
Just by perusing the official website, I see many characters with quirky sides, and ones that seem like the classic heartthrob yet they have certain flaws.
Even though I'm new to the project, I thought these aspects are so well-depicted that it's no wonder Ikémen Sengoku has been loved for over 10 years, and that's what makes it a truly delightful work.

Basically, Saizo has low self-esteem and a negative outlook on life. which makes him very sensitive to feelings of being loved and cherished. This is why he can love someone so passionately.
He also has a clumsy side, so protecting others doesn't come easily to him. Since he's only ever known survival by fighting, he attempts to solve problems in similar ways, which makes him frustrated.
I think he's not just negative, but an extremely kind-hearted character deep inside. Since his worldview is limited, the conflict between his immature and strong sides is extremely compelling.

As I mentioned before, everyone has experienced a moment where they lack confidence and get tongue-tied, unable to express their true feelings.
Conversely, even confident characters might be over-compensating to hide some kind of fear.
So, instead of just acting negative as Saizo, I aimed to portray him as someone who desperately wants to communicate their feelings but is unable to, which is more relatable. Even though he is a ninja, I made an effort to show that he is just like anyone else living in society.

His tagline certainly doesn't give off the brightest impression, but even Saizo himself knows that he's on the more pessismistic side. From a common perspective, it's pretty saddening to see, but his way of living is the only life he's ever known. I hope the players can view him beyond the tagline as they get to know and trust Saizo more.
I wonder what we have in common...I've for sure never hidden under the floorboards though. (laughs) I'm more straightforward with people I like or trust. I do worry that being too forward might make people dislike me, but I also think my truest thoughts won't get across if I don't express my affection or other feelings. So I want to properly put those emotions into words.
I guess we might share the feeling of wanting to return twice the affection of people who are kind to us.

I would go to the future. The past is pretty dangerous. I bet most people feel the same way, but we just don't have enough skills to survive in turbulent times. It's just so easy to live in modern society, where you can get food delivered straight to your door, and have the convenience of so many stores and supermarkets nearby, especially in Tokyo. Just thinking about going back to the past scares me in that sense, so I'd rather travel to the future.
Actually I've been growing a rubber tree plant for about 2 years and lately it's gotten taller than me so I wonder just how huge it will be in the future. Now that is something to keep an eye on. (laughs)

Ikémen Sengoku is a game with numerous charming characters you'd want to fall in love with.
As for my character Saizo, the more you get to know him, the more captivating he is, so I would be glad if you try the game. If many of you show Saizo your love, he might just get more opportunities to shine, so please love him. Thank you for your support.