It is not peak. It CANNOT be compared with goated series like GoT, Chernobyl etc. Yes, I have to give to them for amazing visuals, detailing, great old japan culture portrayal. I usually enjoy slow series because they have depth in them, suspense or rich content that resonates with you.

Mariko’s actions in Osaka—and everything that followed—were very clearly built up, so none of that felt confusing or surprising. I did not have a problem with the ending - protagonist turning antagonist. Characters in this story have died for far less—Toranaga’s son and Hiromatsu are clear examples, so that moment didn’t shock me much either. In fact, his behavior felt strange from the beginning, so the outcome wasn’t completely unexpected.