Takamaru

Takamaru  (鷹丸) is the main character of the Nintendo title Nazo no Murasamejō, which takes place during Ietsuna Tokugawa's reign as shogun. He makes a guest appearance in Samurai Warriors 3 in the game's optional mode, Murasame Castle Mode. Players can unlock him for other Modes once players have collected 33 Tanuki scattered throughout the Murasame Castle Mode.

He is symbolized by the characters "samurai" (侍) and "hawk" (鷹); he is voiced by Hiroshi Okamoto in the Japanese dub. Takamaru was supposedly designed by Minoru Maeda, the director of the original Murasame Castle Game.

Role in Game
While chasing Murasame, he is sucked with the beast one hundred years into the past. Though he is stuck in an unfamiliar time era, his hunt for Murasame continues and he desires to deliver justice. He is guided at times by a woman named Ayame, who follows him on his travels. Players may choose to clear his adventures with Takamaru or with any of the playable characters in the game. He faces four other castle lords in his way before he battles his greatest adversary. Once he accomplishes his goal, Takamaru returns to his own time and thanks the people who have helped him. If the player slays Murasame with another character, Takamaru will personally thank their character for their help.

Personality
Takamaru is a serious, yet caring individual. He takes his duty as a samurai highly, and is always willing to help those in need of assistance. He is also one to think of others' safety over his own. When first meeting the player in Murasame Castle Mode, he is grateful for their assistance, but then asks them to leave so they can stay safe from Murasame's demons. When the player meets him again, he is inspired by their bravery and allows them to accompany him on his journey.

When coming across the likes of Aya trying to save villagers from demons, he is amazed that such "a petite woman" like herself is willing to fight off demons for the sake of strangers. He admires her for her bravery and skill, stating he could learn a lot from her if given the chance.

Another example of his personality is his interactions with Ayame. Despite being strangers he is always willing to help care for her, even to go so far as to protect her from monsters as she travels with him.

Fighting Style
Takamaru's moveset is the same as edit characters sharing his weapon type. He has higher stats to distinguish himself from the player's original characters, as well as his own Musou Kaiden attack, and his own unique Sword design and 4th weapon.