>>57899332
The interviews seem to imply the order of design was Samurott -> Oshawott -> Dewott -> the samurai theme itself. Might just be something that happens when you have multiple designers.
Samurott feels like it's a bit in between, shown to rise up at times but built more like a thick horse that have to walk on all fours.
I think the Iai style they seem to be leaning on more lately is a good compromise, it works well.