TV-Series
Description
Goemon Ishikawa XIII carries the mantle of the thirteenth-generation descendant of the legendary 16th-century bandit Ishikawa Goemon, famed for robbing the rich to aid the poor before meeting execution by boiling. Initially crossing paths within the franchise, Goemon frequently clashed as an adversary to Lupin III, driven to assassinate him over disputes like Lupin's attempts to steal his clan's formula for crafting impervious blades. Their dynamic shifted when Lupin assisted Goemon in avenging his uncle's demise. This act prompted Goemon to cease his assassination attempts and join Lupin's crew, acknowledging the worth of learning from the thief. While primarily allied with the group, Goemon participates less frequently than other members and maintains professional detachment, readily opposing Lupin if a mission violates his personal code. He vows his final act alongside Lupin will be delivering the thief's deathblow, yet consistently supports Lupin in righteous endeavors.
His signature weapon is the sword Zantetsuken (or Ryusei), a blade capable of slicing through nearly any substance, including steel girders, bullets, and vehicles. Its power falters against materials like konnyaku jelly, where the blade sticks fast. After severing an inanimate object – deemed unworthy – he intones his signature phrase: "Once again, I have cut a worthless object." Though lethally trained, he favors non-lethal tactics, often disarming opponents by destroying their weapons or clothing. His martial mastery spans Jujutsu, Aikido, Karate, and Battōjutsu, enabling him to defeat multiple attackers unarmed. He also demonstrates skill as a pilot and driver, though his aptitude with modern technology varies; in *Part 5*, he struggles with smartphones, needing aid from children or Lupin.
Stoicism, profound pride in his abilities, and intense shame when failing define his character. Setbacks – like breaking Zantetsuken or losing his sword to a woman – often drive him to solitary meditation or rigorous training. He adheres strictly to Japanese traditions: wearing kimono and hakama, consuming only Japanese food, and practicing Buddhism and Shinto. His devotion to Japanese cuisine becomes a weakness; authorities and foes have lured him into traps using it. His meditative trances reach such depth that threats cannot move him.
Notable vulnerabilities include naivety around seemingly innocent women, leading to frequent betrayal or manipulation. Attractive women trigger extreme shyness, causing him to blush and avert his gaze from immodesty. Financial recklessness plagues him; he falls for scams promising enlightenment and donates to deceitful cult leaders. Compassion surfaces with children; he cannot ignore their pleas, feels compelled to avenge harmed children, and once temporarily cared for a child he believed was his despite knowing paternity was impossible.
His *Part 5* role features the episode "The Extravagance of Goemon Ishikawa XIII," exploring his financial recklessness as he loses money to a cult. His technological limits are highlighted needing children's help for a smartphone, though Lupin later assists with a camera. His loyalty is tested during Lupin's conflicts involving the hacker Ami and antagonist Albert, solidifying his commitment to the gang in crisis.
Relationships vary: with Lupin, the bond evolves from alliance to genuine loyalty, though he often rebukes Lupin's womanizing. With Jigen, he shares mutual warrior respect, frequently partnering on missions. He maintains wary cooperation with Fujiko Mine despite distrust born from her betrayals. He shows occasional concern for Inspector Zenigata, such as praying for his soul when believing him dead.
His signature weapon is the sword Zantetsuken (or Ryusei), a blade capable of slicing through nearly any substance, including steel girders, bullets, and vehicles. Its power falters against materials like konnyaku jelly, where the blade sticks fast. After severing an inanimate object – deemed unworthy – he intones his signature phrase: "Once again, I have cut a worthless object." Though lethally trained, he favors non-lethal tactics, often disarming opponents by destroying their weapons or clothing. His martial mastery spans Jujutsu, Aikido, Karate, and Battōjutsu, enabling him to defeat multiple attackers unarmed. He also demonstrates skill as a pilot and driver, though his aptitude with modern technology varies; in *Part 5*, he struggles with smartphones, needing aid from children or Lupin.
Stoicism, profound pride in his abilities, and intense shame when failing define his character. Setbacks – like breaking Zantetsuken or losing his sword to a woman – often drive him to solitary meditation or rigorous training. He adheres strictly to Japanese traditions: wearing kimono and hakama, consuming only Japanese food, and practicing Buddhism and Shinto. His devotion to Japanese cuisine becomes a weakness; authorities and foes have lured him into traps using it. His meditative trances reach such depth that threats cannot move him.
Notable vulnerabilities include naivety around seemingly innocent women, leading to frequent betrayal or manipulation. Attractive women trigger extreme shyness, causing him to blush and avert his gaze from immodesty. Financial recklessness plagues him; he falls for scams promising enlightenment and donates to deceitful cult leaders. Compassion surfaces with children; he cannot ignore their pleas, feels compelled to avenge harmed children, and once temporarily cared for a child he believed was his despite knowing paternity was impossible.
His *Part 5* role features the episode "The Extravagance of Goemon Ishikawa XIII," exploring his financial recklessness as he loses money to a cult. His technological limits are highlighted needing children's help for a smartphone, though Lupin later assists with a camera. His loyalty is tested during Lupin's conflicts involving the hacker Ami and antagonist Albert, solidifying his commitment to the gang in crisis.
Relationships vary: with Lupin, the bond evolves from alliance to genuine loyalty, though he often rebukes Lupin's womanizing. With Jigen, he shares mutual warrior respect, frequently partnering on missions. He maintains wary cooperation with Fujiko Mine despite distrust born from her betrayals. He shows occasional concern for Inspector Zenigata, such as praying for his soul when believing him dead.