Kamen Rider is a long running series in Japan very much like Ultraman or the Super Sentai series that is adapted here in the U.S. as “Power Rangers”. The franchise was brought to U.S. shores in the 90s as “Masked Rider” – but the series was not the hit that “Power Ranger” makers “Saban” hoped it would be.

The franchise is getting another shot in the States in January 2009 on The CW kids as “Kamen Rider: Dragon Knight”. This new show is adapted from the 12th incarnation of the “Kamen Rider” series, and will feature english speaking actors in the roles, with Japanese footage inserted for much of the action.

This Saturday at 9:30 am (check local listings) you’ll be able to get a sneak peek at the series. From what I’ve seen (in the trailer above) it looks very “rangers-like” in concept, but it seems like it might be taking itself far too seriously. I actually love watching most of the “Power Rangers” series with my daughter, but this one doesn’t look like it’s going to be a hit in my eyes…we’ll have to wait and see though.