I'm not sure I'm really feeling the Energy designs all that much. Shin Zangetsu and Sigurd, sure. Those look good. But Marika and Duke just don't do too much for me.

Does Shin Zangetsu set the record for earliest in show appearance of a Rider upgrade?

I'm pretty sure that Wizard Flame Dragon showed up in episode 9.

Good interview about Jounouchi & Hase here:

http://silverwind.tumblr.com/post/71...-t-2014-winter

Great destiny aye? I smell either death or an upgrade.

Well, if Gaim doesn't work out, I guess they have a career in modelling?

So, apparently Sigurd is based more off Norse warriors, and thus his base suit is not like any of the other Armored Riders (Shin Zangetsu-Gaim, Duke-Baron, Marika-Ryugen).

https://24.media.tumblr.com/ee10d28e...ytgo1_1280.jpg

Holy shit, I didn't notice the furry Viking style armbands on Sigurd before. Maybe 'cause there was never a clear shot. I think Sigurd might be my favorite Energy Rider design.

Also that pose of him sitting down and holding the lock is making me think he'll end up being Sid for some reason.

Man he looks SWEET!

A viking/barbarian based suit!!! That is too cool. The designers are really on top of their game with this show. I want to see Sigurd in the mango arms now.