TV-Series
Description
Masaru Houjou is a supporting character in the anime series Hand Shakers. He is the younger brother of Riri Hojo, also known as Lily, and serves as her partner in the Hand Shaker battles, forming the duo referred to as Team Card. Masaru is twelve years old, stands 149 centimeters tall, and has brown hair and brown eyes. He was born on June 14.
Masaru's background includes a strong passion for card games; he is recognized as the top card player in the Kinki region. This skill defines much of his identity and is a key part of his interactions with others. When playing cards, he shows a more focused and competitive side compared to his usual demeanor.
Personality-wise, Masaru often displays exasperation with his older sister's behavior, yet he consistently notices and appreciates the diligent care she shows him. Despite being the younger sibling, he frequently attempts to look after Riri, demonstrating a sense of responsibility and maturity beyond his years. His motivations are closely tied to his bond with his sister, as they fight together as a Hand Shaker pair to achieve their shared wish.
Within the story, Masaru and Riri are first introduced when they encounter the main protagonists, Tazuna Takatsuki and Koyori Akutagawa. They act as both allies and obstacles, reflecting the competitive nature of the Hand Shaker conflict. His relationship with Riri is the central dynamic of his character, and their teamwork in battle highlights their mutual reliance.
Notable abilities: As a Hand Shaker, Masaru can summon a Nimrod, a weapon born from his psyche, by holding hands with his partner. The specific form and nature of his Nimrod are not extensively detailed in the available material, but it is implied to be card‑themed in alignment with his expertise. His proficiency in card games may influence his tactical approach during fights.
Masaru's development throughout the series is limited; he remains a consistent supporting presence who reinforces the themes of partnership and competition. He also appears in the sequel series W'z, which is set a decade after the events of Hand Shakers.
Masaru's background includes a strong passion for card games; he is recognized as the top card player in the Kinki region. This skill defines much of his identity and is a key part of his interactions with others. When playing cards, he shows a more focused and competitive side compared to his usual demeanor.
Personality-wise, Masaru often displays exasperation with his older sister's behavior, yet he consistently notices and appreciates the diligent care she shows him. Despite being the younger sibling, he frequently attempts to look after Riri, demonstrating a sense of responsibility and maturity beyond his years. His motivations are closely tied to his bond with his sister, as they fight together as a Hand Shaker pair to achieve their shared wish.
Within the story, Masaru and Riri are first introduced when they encounter the main protagonists, Tazuna Takatsuki and Koyori Akutagawa. They act as both allies and obstacles, reflecting the competitive nature of the Hand Shaker conflict. His relationship with Riri is the central dynamic of his character, and their teamwork in battle highlights their mutual reliance.
Notable abilities: As a Hand Shaker, Masaru can summon a Nimrod, a weapon born from his psyche, by holding hands with his partner. The specific form and nature of his Nimrod are not extensively detailed in the available material, but it is implied to be card‑themed in alignment with his expertise. His proficiency in card games may influence his tactical approach during fights.
Masaru's development throughout the series is limited; he remains a consistent supporting presence who reinforces the themes of partnership and competition. He also appears in the sequel series W'z, which is set a decade after the events of Hand Shakers.