Yasuhiro Nightow's Trigun manga and Madhouse's 1998 anime adaptation are considered classics in their respective media, making the possibility of a reboot version of the story for a new anime some fans wary of. While the story of the original sci-fi anime doesn't match or surpass the modern Cowboy Bebop , it manages to live up to it, and that's only a high bar for Trigun Stampede .
Using the very latest in CG animation, Orange, the studio behind Trigun Stampede , has done an impressive job of embracing beloved new stories. It is not intended to replace the original. On the other hand, Orange offers something new, and Trigun Stampede is off to a promising start with smooth CG animation and exciting new plot points.
Note: This review contains several spoilers for Trigun Stampede Episode 1 and the Original Series.
A bold new direction for the franchise
Rebooting classic anime and manga is no easy pill to swallow for longtime fans. However, at least so far in Episode 1 of Trigun Stampede , Studio Orange has made it clear that this is not intended to be a new "definitive" way to experience this western sci-fi saga.
Similarly, the series premiere did a good job of bringing viewers into the new heart of the story, so longtime fans and those who have never seen the Madhouse anime adaptation will have no trouble understanding. The series opener culminated in the tragic origins of Vash and his twisted twin brother, highlighting what made the long mystery of the original story so compelling.
If Trigun Stampede was always meant to be a complete reboot of Nightow and an alternate manga, this might seem like a smart way to start in the same way. There is no reason for the Stampede to maintain the same mystique for the final third of history.
The most interesting and creative thing in the first episode of the series is the reinterpretation of the characters. In the classic story, Meryl Stryfe and her partner Millie Thompson are insurance agents tasked with cleaning up the mess allegedly left by Wash, but her past origins change her and she becomes an investigative reporter under the tutelage of a tough veteran. Roberto De Niro (no, not the actor) – Completely kicked out of the national team.
It remains to be seen how Milly's absence will feel going forward, as she's an interesting character that you grow with throughout the story, but the perspective of an investigative reporter with a deranged and somehow jaded mentor is an interesting new interpretation. .
A prop for CG animation
In the anime community, CG animation is often considered taboo for adaptation. but he's come a long way in recent years, and that includes Trigun Chaos .
In the film industry, this year's Dragon Ball Super. Super Hero is a prime example of well-done CG animation, and MAPPA 's Dorohedoro is a great example in the TV anime space.
Orange Studio did a great job, the animation itself was very smooth and expressive when working with the characters. The art style is also very lively, thanks to the use of color and lighting.
A fun reboot for fans and beginners alike
Vash's character makeover can take some getting used to, as the creative team leaned too heavily on social media influencer motifs. Regardless, some of the aesthetics that set him apart, and more importantly, his personality, all lend themselves to making him fun to watch.
Only time will tell if Trigun Stampede 's creative changes will pay off. only one episode was screened for critics, with the rest locked away for the entire audience to discover together. Still, the show's first episode had enough visual flair and storytelling to appeal to longtime Trigun fans and newcomers alike. It's a bold start and it will be interesting to see where it goes.
Episode 1 of Trigun Stampede Orange is now available to stream on Crunchyroll, with new episodes available every Saturday.