Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 9 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
August 1, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“The final volume of ‘Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars’ features the final battle between the Earth Federation Army/United Colony Corps vs. the Aerogaters. An explosive final volume and the final episodes feature plenty of mecha action and the most mecha ever assembled in an episode than I have ever seen from any anime series ever. Mecha mayhem and totally awesome!”
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 9
DURATION: 78 + 6 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: 61370
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
At last, the conclusion of the Divine Wars! This definitive collection includes an episode not aired on Japanese TV!
The Final Adjudicator has appeared before mankind! The SRX has awakened and shall put an end to the long war!
Everything has been building up to this final episode as the Earth Federation Army and United Colony Corps goes into full-scale war mode against the alien Aerogaters.
In episode 24 titled “Stage 24: Gathering Power”, the decisive battle with the Aerogaters has begun. The Operation SRW united space fleet engages in a bitter fight with an enemy of overwhelming force. But arriving just in time to join the battle is Ryusei and the other members of the SRX team who arrived at the White Star and to merge their R series units.
In this episode, we get to see a successful merge/transformation of the R series units and to finally see Ryusei exhibit power not seen in any of the episodes.
This very episode features a battle between the Aerogaters Attade Shamlan, Levi Torah’s (leader of the Aerogaters) right hand and cunning pilot who has telekinetic powers and is a master of psychological manipulation. Also, the person who is overseeing the conditioning of human samples captured in battle.
In episode 25 titled “Stage 25: Divine Wars”, the war continues and this time with the transformed SRX Team and the United Colony Corps on the Kulogwane join in battle against the Aerogaters.
The SRX Team goes into battle with their former commander Ingram Plissken who is piloting the R-Gun Revale summoned from another dimension.
While that battle is waged, the space fleet has to go into battle with Aerogater Leader Levi Torah who is piloting a giant mobile weaponry known as the Judecca. A serpent like mecha that forms the nucleus of the automated planet Nevlim and easily is decimating the space fleet with its power.
Also, the true intention of the Aerogaters is revealed and the true identity of Levi Torah is discovered. But unknown to the Aerogaters is that there is another being that is pulling their strings.
An epic battle to decide who will be the victors. The fleet from Earth or the Aerogaters.
In the final episode that was not aired on television is “Final Stage: Separate Paths“. The fact that this episode was not aired on television makes this volume important to own because it features the Final Adjudicator and what remains of the fate of certain individuals on both sides.
This episode also features the aftermath of the war, what happens to many of the pilots a month after the war and what path they choose for each of their lives.
All in all, an ending not seen on television, thus making it a series definitely worth owning!
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
The final volume of “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” finally features some special features. All opening and ending themes are now featured (textless).
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary. Also, included is a “Special Message” (continuing from the last five volume booklets) segment which features more voice talent giving their thoughts about their character and a message for the fans.
I’m really impressed of how many voice actors (past and present) are featured in this anime series. With so many characters, it’s definitely understandable. As for the booklet, it was finally nice to find out more about Katrina Trask and the members of the Octopus Platoon. For many episodes, seeing this team and not really knowing much about them (with the exception of Shinguji Tasuku, since he plays a prominent role earlier on in the series.
It’s hard to believe the final volume is here.
This has to be one of the most intense mecha anime series in a sense of how much mecha were utilized throughout this whole series and how many characters on various sides of the war are featured and have a role in this anime.
The final volume features an awesome battle but to find out that the final episode was never aired in Japan and on this DVD, it’s really surprising because the “Final Stage” really goes into some important topics within the overall series and the future of the series. So, for this episode alone, for those who watched this series on television and loved it, you’re doing yourself an injustice if you don’t get this final volume because the final episode alone features important scenes.
So, the final volume is worth owning because this series is just straight-out mecha fan service!
But what about the entire series? As mentioned in my last volume review, where a Gundam TV series has nearly 40-50 episodes to really flesh out a character and focus on character development and relationships, with only 26 episodes and so many characters featured on “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars”, there is only so much they can feature because so much is dedicated to the war, the mecha battles and the SRX Team.
So, because the series could have been epic and the building up of a battle or war could have been lengthened if they had more episodes, the creators did what they could to fit everything within 26-episodes.
So, because of that…”Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” is not perfect, nor does it reach “greatness” but it manages to achieve high marks for it’s battles, the many mecha introduced in the overall series, its wide variety of characters and its enjoyable storyline.
There is so much story to tell and the fact that the foundation has been created for this series, I can see multiple spin-offs via anime (and even video games) from this series if needed featuring on the various multiple teams within the Earth Federation Army. There is so much potential!
This anime series is a long time coming and for fans of the video games, it was so great to see this anime series created and the fact that fans can finally obtain it in the US.
Although the DVD’s have been somewhat barebone in special features and there is no English dub, I’m glad that Bandai Visual continued their focus on video and audio quality. And the informative books included with each volume was definitely worth it!
So, all in all, “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars vol. 9 is worth owning and the overall series is worth watching! Awesome mecha battles, interesting characters and a storyline that was just enjoyable to watch. Let’s say, I enjoyed it so much that I’m bummed that it’s over. So, I’m hoping for another series in the near future!
Definitely check “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” out!
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ Finally, the final volume and a “Final stage” that is literally an episode that was not shown on television but manages to fill in important holes in the storyline. Overall, a great conclusion for this series.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
+ Yes, special features are included in this volume!
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 8 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
July 30, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“As we reach the final two volumes, there are new revelations and the Earth Defense Force and the United Colony Corps goes to war against the aliens and a key betrayal comes unexpected in this latest action-packed volume of ‘Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars’”.
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 8
DURATION: 72 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: BUDH0136
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
At last, the battle moves to its final stage… The astonishing truth is revealed in this volume!
The muzzle that has been leveled is one of betrayal, and the swords that must protect the Earth will be drawn for their final mission!
In volume 7, the Alien Aerogater’s made their move by invading Earth and abducting Earth Federation Army soldiers and pilots.
Volume 8 continues the storyline about the war between the Earth Federation Army/United Colony Corps and the Alien Aerogaters who have now started to decimate major cities but this volume will be known for its major betrayal by one of the main characters of this series.
In episode 21 titled “Stage 21: Misgivings”, the Aerogater attack has thrown the Earth’s Sphere into chaos. An introduction to a new character named Brigadier General Normany Srey of the Earth Federation Army who drafts Operation SRW for an assault on the massive Aerogater base, the “White Star”.
Also, Ingram has begun Kusuha’s training as a pilot on the Grungust Type-2 while other pilots question Ingram using an unskilled pilot to take control of a Super Robot.
In episode 22 titled “Stage 22: The Muzzle of Betrayal”, the Aerogaters begin decimating the Northern area of China. The Hagwane heads to the area and the Personnel Troopers face their deadliest enemies yet.
Because of the dire situation, Ingram Plissken orders the SRX Team to transform and become as one. An order that the Ryusei and team have never done before. And a major character becomes a traitor.
In episode 23 titled “Stage 23: The Day of Parting”, the team has been betrayed and the group is at a loss not knowing why it has happened, especially what may have happened to their teammate Kusuha who has disappeared in battle.
The ramifications of the betrayal has led to the SRX team to be jailed and the higher ups want their mechas to be dismantled.
Meanwhile, the Earth Federation Army and the United Colony Corps rendezvous at the L5 Point and launch Operation SRW and come head-to-head with a former teammate.
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all.
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary. Also, included is a “Special Message” (continuing from the last four volume booklets) segment which features more voice talent giving their thoughts about their character and a message for the fans.
The eighth volume of “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” is another exciting volume in the series and as usual with the series, there was a lot of action and mecha battles galore!
But there are some problems when you think about the concept of time and part of the problem is when you have so many characters, where a mecha series such as “Gundam” has over 40-50 episodes, they are able to flesh out the story with more character development and even budding relationships. Also, there is a sense of time of how many days or weeks things have passed.
With this volume, Kusuha is now a pilot of the Grungust Type-2 and willing to go to battle. But how long has she actually been training. A day, days, weeks? Ryune Zoldark is concerned with the incarceration of the SRX team but since she was just let on aboard the Hagwane, without that much character development for her, would Ryune really be that concerned? So, perhaps she has been friends with Ryusei and Rai for days or weeks?
But another problem which I mentioned in previous review and again becomes a major pet peeve is the sense of death. With the battle of the Aerogaters, the Earth Federation Army and the civilians become casualties. Soldiers who pilot an airplane or drive a tank are the ones that are typically killed in battle.
But not one major character has been killed. They have been injured but well enough for battle in a few days with no lasting ramifications from injuries.
We have seen death for United Colony Corps and Divine Crusaders characters but even in this volume where Aya is shot point blank, she survives and is hospitalized and is ready to go battle by the end of the volume.
No one dies, no one gets majorly injured and with every death that we have seen on the “good” side of a mecha series, the death makes an impact.
And so you wonder what if “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” has had the chance to get a 40-50 episode treatment. Character development and even budding relationships can be furthered explored but at least there would be a sense of timing.
But with that being said, the end of the “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” is the next volume and volume 8 which features a major character betrayal was exciting and to see the turn against the fellow teammates was quite riveting.
Overall, this is a 26-episode series and Kakudo Hiroyuki and staff has done what they can to fit everything they can in a short time. It’s a bit sad to know that there is one more volume left in the series but so far, I have been entertained. The series although not perfect, is still riveting, action-packed and explosive.
I look forward to the final volume!
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ Finally, the battle between the Earth Defense Army and the United Colony Corps versus the alien Aerogaters.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
+ A very good volume that focuses on the character development of several key characters.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 7 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
July 29, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“After the final battle with DC Commander-in-Chief Bian Zoldark, volume 7 introduces Zoldark’s daughter Ryune and her mecha Valsione plus a final confrontation between the Earth Federation Army and the remnants of the Divine Crusaders and the long awaited battle between Ryusei and Tenzan. Another action packed volume!”.
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 7 DURATION: 72 minutes DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB CATALOG #: BUDH0135 COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
The battle reaches a new stage with this watershed volume! The threat of the White Star has appeared in the Earth Sphere… Humanity faces its greatest crisis, and the iron giants shall assemble!
With the last volume, the war has pretty much ended with the defeat of Bian Zoldark but remnants of the Divine Crusaders continue to cause trouble as Adler Koch has taken control. In episode 17, the Divine Crusaders tried their best to kidnap Princess Shine Hauzen from the Principality of Riksent but the Ryusei and Rai arrived right in time to defeat the DC. In episode 18 titled “Stage 18: Ryune and the Valsione”, a gravitational anomaly is detected at the L5 Point, something similar to Meteorite-3 (which was technology used to create the super robots and new weaponry). As the Earth Federation goes on alert, the two assault cruisers, the Hagwane and Hiryu Kwai are dispatched to the L5 Point. But waiting for them is Ryune Zoldark and the Valsione. In episode 19 titled “Stage 19: Enter the Hellstar”, the threat that Prof. Bian Zoldark has talked about comes true as the alien Aerogaters massive fortress known as the “White Star” has appeared at the L5 Point and the aliens have declared war against the Planet Earth. As the Earth Federation Army holds their own against the aliens, it appears the aliens are abducting pilots and members of the Earth Federation Army. Also, one of the higher ups of the Earth Federation Army is revealed to be a traitor that has been working with the Divine Crusaders and has kidnapped the Princess Hauzen. In episode 20 titled “Stage 20: Twilight of the DC”, the remaining elements of the Divine Crusaders led by Adler Koch try to take advantage of the Aerogaters attack on the planet and launch an offensive to conquer Geneva, the Earth Federation Army’s nerve center. This episode features the final battle between the Earth Federation Army and the Divine Crusaders and also a battle pitting Ryusei and his “Burning PT” rival Tenza VIDEO: As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1. AUDIO: Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that. SPECIAL FEATURES: Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all. As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary. Also, included is a “Special Message” (continuing from the last three volume booklets) segment which features more voice talent giving their thoughts about their character and a message for the fans.
After episode 17, with the introduction of Princess Hauzen and the episode becoming lighthearted again, I was curious how vol. 7 would be? Would the war against the aliens begin? Will the Earth Federation Army finally confront the Divine Crusader remnants? And the answer is a resounding yes on both counts! The battle between Ryusei and Tenzan and pilots versus Tempest Hawker in a battle to the death was great to see. At least there was build up in previous episodes for a final battle with the DC and it was great to see that happen sooner than later, especially now that the war between the Earth Federation Army/United Colony Corps taking on the alien Aerogaters has begun. The introduction of Ryune Zoldark (daughter of DC commander-in-chief Bian Zoldark) wanting revenge for her father’s death was a bit short for my taste and how quickly the Earth Federation let her join the team aboard the Hagwane, again pacing went very quickly with her introduction and how she becomes part of the team. But this volume did provide continuing mecha battles and definitely sets things up between the war between humans and aliens. As far as mecha’s are concerned, I have to admit that the Valsione mecha design was a bit unusual, especially since the mecha’s head is of an anime style girl but with so many variations of mechas introduced in this series, the Valsione ranks up there for unique mecha design. All in all, volume 7 of “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” was entertaining and a few more revelations are made and I can’t wait to see how things play out in volume 8.
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ Finally, the final battle between Ryusei and Tenzan! And the final battle between the Earth Federation Army vs. remnants of the Divine Crusaders.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
+ A very good volume that focuses on the character development of several key characters.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 6 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
July 27, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“The action continues in volume 6 as the Federation is now in its final stages to attack the DC base. Also, a volume that showcases the final battle between the Federation’s Personnel Troopers versus Bian Zoldark’s Valsion and the Divine Crusaders in more action-packed episodes in this latest volume of ‘Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars’.”.
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 6
DURATION: 72 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: BUDH0134
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
The DC’s ultimate weapon makes its appearance in this explosive sixth volume!
The last battle is at hand! A shot rings out from the skies, and the R-1 will crush the DC’s plans!
After coming out of a “mecha high” from episode 14 of volume 5 which featured the deadly battle between the Earth Federation Army and the United Colony Corps, I wondered how long would it take until we get to the final battle between Professor Zoldark and the Divine Crusaders versus the Earth Federation Army.
Well, after watching volume 6, it didn’t take long at all as the volume focuses on the final battle that can end the war.
In episode 15 titled “Stage 15: A Shot from the Skies”, the Hagwane now approaches Aidoneus Island for the final battle against the Divine Crusaders. But first, the Hagwane must charge its Tronium Buster Cannon and so, the various teams need to buy some time.
But a squadron of Armored Modules from the DC led by Tempest Hawker is about to meet up with them for battle.
In this episode, we get to learn a little more about Tempest Hawker, a United Colony Corps pilot who is part of the Elite Aggressors group and has a grudge against the Earth Federation Army because his wife and child were killed due to the Federation’s lack of response.
In episode 16 titled “Stage 16: Bian’s Last Words”, the Hagwane’s Personal Trooper squadron successfully descends on Aidoneus Island for a final battle against the Divine Crusaders.
But awaiting the Earth Federation Army is DC Commander-in-Chief, Professor Bian Zoldark who is piloting the gigantic mecha, the Valsion.
This battle will decide the outcome of the war as the Earth Federation Army puts everything on the line against the Divine Crusaders.
In episode 17 titled “Stage 17: Little Princess”, the battle on Aidoneus Island is now over and the Hagwane is now ordered to pursue DC remnants now following the new leadership of Adler Koch.
The Hagwane receives a distress call to go to the Principality of Riksent, an autonomous region in the Meditteranean that comes under fire by the Squadron of Armored Modules who plan to kidnap Shine Hauzen, the last member of the Riksent royal family.
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all.
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary. Also, included is a “Special Message” (continuing from the last two volume booklets) segment which features more voice talent giving their thoughts about their character and a message for the fans.
I have to admit that I was a bit surprised that the final battle against the Divine Crusaders was about to happen in this volume.
After the last volume featuring the battle between the Earth Federation and the United Colony Corps, I wondered if there would be major retaliation from the Divine Crusaders.
Actually, I wondered if “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” would start to get darker. In a sense, something of a “Zeta Gundam” where we would see major key characters killed off.
But this volume does feature episodes which lead to the final battle between the Earth Federation and Bian Zoldark.
I have to admit that this is the first volume of “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” which I did question the pacing because I wanted to see some emotional buildup before the final battle against Zoldark but it appears there is more to this storyline as there are three more volumes left in the series.
Where the war was the major focus for the first 16 episodes, you learn something political and dark in regards to the Earth Federation Army that definitely will probably put some doubt in the mind of the viewer.
I get a sense that there is a major set-up which is going to twist things up with a variety of the characters after the revelation of episode 16.
Another storyline set-up that I see happening is something that was somewhat left out in previous episodes and that is “what about the aliens?” that the Federation was in war against in the first place.
Well, it seems that the next stage of the series as the next stage in war against the aliens will begin and curious what other things will be thrown at the viewer in this second half of the series.
So, as much as I felt that the build-up to the final battle against Zoldark was a bit too quick than I would have hoped for, there is more to the storyline than meets the eye and I look forward in seeing what volume 7 has planned.
Volume 6 does feature a great battle between the Earth Federation Army Personnel Troopers against the Zoldark’s Valsion but I guess the only disappointment is that I imagined the final battle against Zoldark would prove to be a deadly one and thus expected the series to get a bit darker.
But all in all, I remain content with this volume and again, look forward to see how the series will progress in its second half.
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ Finally, the final battle between the Earth Federation Army’s Hagwane and the Divine Crusaders leader Bian Zoldark.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
+ A very good volume that focuses on the character development of several key characters.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 5 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
July 26, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“The latest volume features the awesome battle between the Federation and the United Colony Corps. An awesome display of strategy and all out mecha battles galore! A wonderful volume with an episode that probably will rank among my top anime space battles of all time!”
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 5
DURATION: 72 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: BUDH0133
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
The fifth must-see volume of this television event!
Operation Breakout has begun… But standing before the Hiryu Kwai is the sword that smites evil!
After watching volume 5 of “Super Robot Wars OG: DIVINE WARS”, I’m just left with an impression of “WOW!”
Things pick up quite quickly and if you thought the mecha battles from the previous episodes were awesome, prepare yourself as the Earth Federation and the United Colony Corps finally go against each other head on!
Definitely a must watch volume in the series thus far!
In episode 12 titled “Stage 12: The Trap”, inside the assault cruiser Hagwane, Aya collapses during a conditioning session using the T-Link Ssytem. And the DC Armored Modules led by Tomas Pratt launches a sudden attack.
We are introduced to Hikawa Ryoto, similar to Ryusei and Tenzan, a player of the robot fighting game “Burning PT” who doesn’t realize that what he is involved in right now is not a game, it’s all out war and people die!
Hiroto is a shy, pure-hearted guy who is among the “advanced children” discovered by Adler Koch of the Divine Crusaders and he’s more or less a computer and technology geek.
Another key character that the storyline focuses on is the character of Rio Meilong. She was shown briefly as a character welcoming Kusuha to the Hagwane but now that she is being trained as a pilot, you learn that Rio is the daughter of Ewan Meilong, a top executive of Personal Trooper manufacturer Mao Industries and has an unknown hatred towards the Divine Crusaders.
In episode 13 titled “Stage 13: Premonitions of War”, a transport vessel headed toward the Hagwane comes under fire by Armored Modules piloted by Divine Crusaders pilots Tomas and Tenzan and ultimately leading to a confrontation between Ryusei and his “Burning PT” rival Tenzan.
For this episode, the episode actually focuses on character development of Latun Subbota, a member of the Earth Federation Army’s Far East Branch.
Known for wearing thick sunglasses and lacking emotions, it is revealed that Latun is a former member of the School and because of the brutal training and experimentation, she has a fear of socializing. That is until she meets Ryusei.
In episode 14 titled “Stage 14: Operation Breakout”, the success of Operation Mururoa (an operation to take over satellite communications away from the Earth Federation Army) has given the United Colony Corps control of space.
The United Colony Corps is led by Commander-in-Chief Maier Von Branstein and their goal is to invade Geneva, the heart of the Federation Government and with the Treue Unit (the gifted pilots of the United Colony) eliminating the majority of the Earth Federation Army in space, power will be with the Divine Crusaders.
With the odds against them, this gives the Earth Federation Army one chance to become successful and that is to send both assault carriers, the Hiryu Kwai and the Hwagane and the personnel troopers in an all out battle against the United Colony Corps.
And with episode 14, what a battle it was. An amazing episode that features mecha battles galore. From ATX Team Kyosuke Nanbu going against his former leader (turned traitor) Major Sanger Zonvolt and just an all out war between the United Colony Corps and Treue Unit versus the Personnel Troopers of the Earth Federation Army was just all out mecha eye candy.
Definitely one of the highlights from the series thus far! Amazing!
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all.
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary. Also, included is a “Special Message” (continuing from the last booklet) segment which features more voice talent giving their thoughts about their character and a message for the fans.
This series continues to get better and better with each episode and similar to the last volume, it’s great to get more character development for some of the characters and finally it was learned why Latun is the way she is and also seeing her willing to try different things in her life and having more human reactions. Especially experiencing human emotions, which was great to see.
As for the introduction of another character with Hikawa Ryoto. At first, I was like “another character?” but the way the storyline was written and how Ryoto becomes instrumental in the upcoming episodes was good planning and I look forward in seeing how his technological sense comes to play in future episodes.
But of course, for volume 5… it’s all about episode 14. There have been major mecha battles so far in the series but the battle between the Earth Federation Army’s personnel troopers (mechas) versus the pilots of the Treue Unit and the United Colony Corps will probably be known for its epic mecha battle and a strategy used by the Earth Federation Army was just amazingly planned.
I can’t help but watching episode 14 several times over and over because it was that good!
All in all, this volume was enjoyable and just continues to be the ultimate in mecha fan service!
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ Episode 14!!! What an amazing episode and battles galore!
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
+ A very good volume that focuses on the character development of several key characters.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 4 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
July 24, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“The latest volume of ‘Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars’ features the crew of the Hagwane and the Hagwane itself as it leaves towards its mission to destroy the Divine Crusader base. This time, this volume focuses on character development of other characters and still managing to continue the mecha battles that makes this anime series so exciting!”
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 4
DURATION: 72 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: BUDH0132
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
The action continues in the fourth highly anticipated volume of this mecha anime epic!
Retreat toward despair… Advance toward hope… The enemy has struck, and the Hagwane is about to strike back!
In my last review of “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars”, I talked about how I wanted to see more character development because there were so many characters that were featured in episode 6 alone.
Fortunately, with this latest volume, we get just that plus the overall mecha action that we have enjoyed from this anime series so far.
In episode 9 titled “Stage 09: Hagwane, Move out!”, preparations being to launch the Space Noah-Class all-purpose assault cruiser the Hagwane. Ryusei is reunited with his high school classmate Kusuha, now working aboard the Hagwane as an orderly.
Meanwhile, the Divine Crusaders launch an attack against the attack cruiser, the Hagwane and Rai finally confronts his brother, the DC mobile task force leader Elzam V. Branstein.
An exciting battle ensues between the Federation and the Divine Crusaders and all of a sudden, the mysterious pilot from episode 5 shows up from nowhere to assist the Federation.
In episode 10 titled “Stage 10: The Elemental Lord of the Wind”, the Hagwane now heads south across the Pacific Ocean on their way to Divine Crusaders main heardquarters located in Aidoneus Island.
This time, the Personal Troopers go on the offensive against the Divine Crusaders but shocked to find out that they are facing the Barrelion, a new form of Armored Module and the Treue Unit, an experienced group of pilots from the United Colony.
Also, the mysterious pilot is revealed to be Ando Masaki, the operator of the Cyblaster, a form of humanoid mobile weaponry dubbed “the Elemental Lord of the Wind”.
The Federation learns about Ando’s goal of going after Divine Crusaders Commander-in-Chief Bian Zoldark and Shirakawa Shu, the pilot who initiated the war between the Divine Crusaders and the Federation.
While Ando is recuperating from battle, Shirakawa Shu and his super killer robot, the Granzon appears and Captain Minase (Captain of the Hagawane) must decide to fight the Granzon or retreat.
In episode 11 titled “Stage 11: Masaki’s Decision”, Ando must decide if he wants to help the Federation and help the Federation and crew of the Hagwane. Plissken makes a proposal to Ando for both sides to join forces to achieve their goals against the Divine Crusaders.
If there was one thing that took me by surprise was the humor in episode 11, as Kusuha’s “power drinks” are introduced and to see how various characters react to it. Just to see Plissken drink her “power drink” was one of the most humorous segments I have seen in the series so far.
For a series that features a lot of battles and could be a bit complex, it was nice to see this humorous segment.
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all.
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary and beginning with this volume is the inclusion of a “Special Message” by the voice actors for the various characters giving their thoughts on their characters and a message for the fans.
I wish there were video interviews with the actors and actresses but it was nice to read the veterans who provided the voice of the video games nearly ten years ago and talk about their experiences from the video games and anime.
I have really been enjoying the the entire “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” series but I was a bit cautious to see how the director would handle all these characters that have been introduced so far.
This series has a lot of characters and although still managing to focus on the original three members, last volume focused on various teams and throughout the chaos of major mecha battles, I really enjoyed the last volume but wondered about the character development.
With episode 9-11, the storyline focuses on the crew of the Hagwane, newcomer Ando Masaki and of course, Ryusei as he has a new robot to learn.
Also, it was great to see Kusuha back but aside for being in the episodes for comedic value, I get a feeling that her part in this series will become more important.
Overall, things are now picking up in the series as the assault cruiser, the Hagwane now moves towards its destination to take on the Divine Crusaders main headquarters and encountering strong enemies along the way.
Another exciting volume in this series.
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ More mecha battles but this time with the assault cruiser, the Hagwane!
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
+ A very good volume that focuses on the character development of several key characters.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 3 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
July 17, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“Just when you thought the first two volumes were full of mecha action, vol. 3 just ups the ante of mecha battle goodness. Another awesome volume in the series that just continually gets better and better. Robot fans, check this series out! It’s 100% percent mecha ‘pron’!”
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 3
DURATION: 72 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: BUDH0131
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
The third explosive installment of the series carving out new ground in the robot anime genre!
When the sacred flag is flown, the first strike of the blue devil will sound the call to war!!
It’s interesting that with each volume of “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars”, I tend to talk about how the mecha battles escalate its impressive and awesome battles. Volume 2 really demonstrated battles that for me, it was a “homerun”.
Now watching volume 3 featuring episodes 6 through 8 of the series. If Vol. 2 was a “home run”, vol. 3 is a “Grand Slam” as the war between the Earth Federation and the Divine Crusaders has begun.
In episode 6 titled “Stage 06: Blue Devil”, the unveiling ceremony for a new form of weaponry is actually a smokescreen for the first attempt at negotiations between the Earth Federation Government and a potential alien menace.
With all eyes towards this ceremony which could help end the war between the humans and the aliens, EOTI Organization’s Shu Shirakawa has something else in mind as he takes the huge mecha robot Granzon and launches an attack on both the Earth Federation and the aliens.
Chaos ensues as the Earth Federation tries to defend themselves against the Granzon and Earth’s mecha protectors go to battle against the various aliens who want retribution for the attack during the peace talks.
We are quickly introduced to the skilled mecha team known as ATX led by Sanger Zonvolt. Both Zonvolt and ATX Team are known to be the best mecha team the Earth Federation has.
Part of the ATX team are test pilot Kyosuke Nanbu a gifted pilot and excels at close-range combat. Excellent Browning, girlfriend of Kyosuke and known for her high-mobility and long-range attacks. And the third test pilot for ATX Team, Brooklyn Luckfield who has the paranormal abilities of psychodriver and pilots the Gespenst MK-II Type-TT.
We get a glimpse of other forces with the Earth Federation who show off their fighting capabilities and an episode with all out mecha battles between the alien insect swarm, the Granzon and the forces from the Earth Federation.
In episode 7 titled “Stage 07: The Divine Crusaders”, The EOTI Organization led by Prof. Bian Zoldark has started the new generation called “Divine Crusaders”. A group that wants to defend humans against the aliens but feels the Earth Federation is in their way. Zoldark gives an International televised speech that humans can join him or go against him.
And to make things worse for the Earth Federation, the United Colony Corps has aligned themselves with the Divine Crusaders and begin attacking Earth Federation army bases.
This leads to a battle between the ATX Team and Divine Crusaders/United Colony Corps
In episode 8 titled “Stage 08: The Steel Ark”, The United Colony Corps now holds control of most of the Galaxy and the Divine Crusaders have captured many of the Earth Federation military bases in Southeast Asia.
A battle ensues at the Sasebo base which the SRX Team goes to battle against the Divine Crusader mobile squadron and Ryusei has to learn the about the casualties of war.
Also, the Divine Crusaders have captured ATX leader Sanger Zonvolt. What will happen when Zonvolt comes face-to-face with DC leader Professor Zoldark.
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all.
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary.
When I first watched the OAV “Super Robot Wars Original Generation” and saw the various mecha teams within the Earth Federation, I wondered how long it would take to see these teams in the television series.
In episode 6, we are quickly introduced to all of them fighting amidst the chaos. If anything, the main focus of this third volume is the skilled ATX team.
Like the OAV, in the TV series the ATX team are just awesome in their fighting skills and their ability to wipe out their enemy in a variety of ways. But even more impressive are the mecha robots the ATX Team pilots, especially Sanger Zonvolt’s Grungust Type-D, a massive super robot with unparalleled output and attack capabilities.
I was very pleased with this overall volume. The first two have been pretty good but third really kicks things up into high gear and the action was just incredible.
It’s going to be interesting to see how the war develops overtime and how the Earth Federation can contend with the powerful Divine Crusaders.
If there is one thing that can be faulted in the eyes of a viewer is that too many characters are being introduced and if you are not paying attention, I can see some people getting lost and not knowing which team or side that pilot is on.
But I think the intention was to show that the Earth Defense Force has its share of assault teams and show them in battle and then take its time for character development for the SRX Team and the ATX team members. And with only eight episodes, its still a bit early in the series. So, there is much storytelling and character development left in the series.
But overall, if you have been curious about picking this series up and you are a true mecha fan, you do not want to miss “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars”. It’s an awesome series and I look forward to volume 4!
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ Mecha battle fest! Cool animated battles and cool ideas of weapon utilization.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 2 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
July 10, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“The second exciting volume of ‘Super Robot Wars OG’ features more robots and more explosive battles that mecha fans will truly love!”
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 2
DURATION: 72 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: BUDH0130
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
The popular Super Robot Wars OG takes to an all-new battlefield!
An encroaching alien menace… And the steel ghost that answers the call of a slumbering power…
It is the era of the so-called New Calendar. A foreign body called Meteorite 3 crash-lands on Aidoneus Island bringing with it the materials and science of what mankind dubs Extra Over Technology. The arrival of this technology is proof of the existence of extraterrestrial life and data recovered from Meteor-3 indicates it is using a form of articulated mobile weaponry. The fate of the earth sphere will be irrevocably altered.
The last volume was literally the introduction to Ryusei, the experienced robot video game player and hardcore mecha otaku who joined the military after utilizing one of their robots illegally.
But it’s no sweat because Ryusei has always dreamed of becoming a pilot right?
In the second volume of “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars”, Ryusei has to learn quick that piloting his own real mecha is no longer a game.
He is no longer by himself, he must work as part of the team and that one careless move can cost the lives of not just him but also his teammates.
In episode 3 titled “Stage 03: The Third Man”, we are introduced to the third member of the team, Rai Branstein. A gifted pilot from a famous military family who doesn’t seem to thrilled that his teammate Ryusei was not brought up in the military and that Ryusei’s inexperience and poor decision making may harm the team.
In episode 4 titled “Stage 04: The Wings of Disaster”, after the horrible test battle against the Haruma Troops, Ryusei is learning things the hard way. His poor judgment not only made the team lose but most of all, in front of everyone, he is deemed unworthy for battle. How will Ryusei prove to the team and the military that they can depend on him?
Also, we get a look at Ryusei’s video game fighting rival Tenzan Nakajima who pilots a “Lion” and shows off his piloting skills for EOTI. His piloting skills are exceptional but a bit of a short fuse and not listening to direct orders. Similar to Ryusei but better piloting skills and more deadly.
In episode 5 titled “Stage 05: The Guests from Beyond”, the trio of Captain Aya Kobayashi, Ryusei and Rai Branstein will now be called the SRX Team and the team will go on it’s first major off-base mission
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all.
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page character guide and glossary.
One of the first things you will notice with this second volume is that it comes with a total of three episodes (the first volume features two).
But the pace of this volume is definitely a lot more intense as there are more battles and also character development, especially among the three members of the SRX Team and how they need to come together, work together to become victorious.
And then outside of the SRX team, you get to see the EOTI Organization taking on calculating risks and how the Earth Federation Army is responding to threats, which in this volume, they have no idea who is provoking the attacks.
Volume 2 definitely features a bit more action compared to volume 1 but so far, quite enjoyable.
You do get to meet more characters but at this time, they were just brief introductions, possibly leading to more focus on these individuals in later episodes.
Also, good insight to see how the military is dealing with new technology, moving away from tank squadrons to mecha robots and how long-standing military officers feel about the new technology and its pilots.
But all in all, enjoyed volume two. Cool mecha battles and cool storyline thus far. Good character development among the core three members and obviously setting things up, for something probably explosive in the next or upcoming volumes.
If you are a mecha fan, definitely a series to check out!
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series based on a long running video game… A long time coming!
+ Mecha battle fest! Cool animated battles and cool ideas of weapon utilization.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 1 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)
June 29, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“A highly anticipated animated TV series based on the popular ‘Super Robot Taisen Original Generation’ video games finally has its release in the US. And the first volume features mecha battles galore! A cool opening start for the series!”
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars Vol. 1
DURATION: 48 minutes
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/ MPEG-2 / DVD-5 / NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital Stereo) / English Subtitles / 16:9 LB
CATALOG #: BUDH0129
COMPANY: Bandai Visual / Honneamise
RATING: 13 and up
STAFF INFORMATION:
ORIGINAL STORY: SR Production Team
DIRECTOR: Kakudo Hiroyuki
SUPERVISOR & SERIES PLANNER: Terada Takanobu
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko
CHARACTER DESIGN: Ikeda Yuji
MAIN MECHANICAL DESIGNERS: Katoki Hajime, Miyatake Kazutaka, Okawara Kunio, Saito Kazue
ART DIRECTOR: Kato Kenji
PRODUCED By: SWROG PROJECT
CAST INFORMATION:
Ryusei Miki Shin-Ichiro, Ingram: Furusawa Toru, Yukiko: Sakuma Rei, Kusuha: Takahashi Mikamo, Tenzan: Kawazu Yasuhiko, Laker: Kiyokawa Motomu, Kenzo: MUGIHITO, Kai: Saizan Tadahisa, Hance: Masutani Yutaka, Shu: Koyasu Takehito, Bian: Iizuka Shoz
The popular Super Robot Wars OG takes to an all-new battlefield!
An encroaching alien menace… And the steel ghost that answers the call of a slumbering power…
It is the era of the so-called New Calendar. A foreign body called Meteorite 3 crash-lands on Aidoneus Island bringing with it the materials and science of what mankind dubs Extra Over Technology. The arrival of this technology is proof of the existence of extraterrestrial life and data recovered from Meteor-3 indicates it is using a form of articulated mobile weaponry. The fate of the earth sphere will be irrevocably altered.
As mentioned on previous review for “Super Robot Wars: Original Generation” the OAV series, I have always been a fan of the video game series, especially the Original Generation Game Boy Advance games that came out in the US.
Of course, the video game series has been out for way over a decade but has never been localized because the games featured on mecha from a variety of different manga and anime licenses.
But fortunately with “Super Robot Wars Original Generation”, it would be the first “Super Robots” related game to not feature licensed characters or mecha and thus, it made things easier for a US release via video games and now with the anime series courtesy of Bandai Visual/Honneamise.
With “Super Robot OG: Divine Wars”, the main story takes place seven years since Meteorite-3 slammed the Earth and the storyline focuses on a teenager named Date Ryusei.
In episode 1 titled “Stage 01: The Steel Ghost”, Ryusei is a big fan of robots and with his mother sick in the hospital, he’s going through growing pains and leaning towards not going to college, so he can work and help pay off his mother’s medical bills.
Accompanying Ryusei is his high-school classmate Mizuha Kusuha. A calm, quiet girl who has her sights set on become a nurse.
Ryusei is focused on pretty much winning the robot fighting video game competitions called “Burning PT” which he has made it to the finals.
Unknown to Ryusei, he is being closely monitored by Ingram Plissken (the commander of SRX Team and the major figure in the SRX Project) and Kobayashi Aya (leader of the team). Both are wondering if Ryusei will display certain fighting talents during his video game match.
Unfortunately, he loses the match and Mizuha tries to console him afterwards. That was until a mysterious object crashes into the stadium and a swarm of bug-shaped robots start attacking.
Mizuha is injured by falling debris and with a big slab of debris. Ryusei needs to get help and out of nowhere, a mass-produced mecha machine known as Gespenst MK-II Type TT happens to show up.
Concerned for his friend, Ryusei jumps into the Gespenst and realizes that the controls are similar to his video game controls. Ryusei then gets into battle to protect his friend from the bug robots known as the Megiloat (alien robots belonging to an extraterrestrial intelligence known as the Aerogaters).
For the second episode “Stage 02: Awakening Power”, the battle between Ryusei and the swarm of bug robots continue and during the battle, Ryusei unleashes an attack that destroys them. For someone who is an amateur, what kind of talents does Ryusei possess?
Ingram Plissken and the SRX Team arrest Ryusei (for stealing their mecha) and offers him a choice. Join the military as a pilot or go to prison (or worse).
The first two episodes of volume 1 primarily focuses on Ryusei Date, if anything, “Super Robot Wars OG: Divine Wars” featured straightforward mecha battles and actually an entertaining storyline that kept me interested.
For those familiar with the OAV series, there are many other pilots that are part of the series, so I’m curious to see how the storyline unfolds in introducing these characters and of the varying teams, how many people will be focused on in terms of the storyline, let alone the storylines that focus on the various industries who are competing to build mecha’s to protect humankind.
VIDEO:
As for the video, since it’s a newer anime series that aired back in the end of 2006 and early 2007, as expected, the anime is clear and colorful. Also, because it is a Bandai Visual release known for their audio and video quality, the anime is presented in 16:9 LB anamorphic with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
AUDIO:
Bandai Visual is known for their quality A/V and audio is encoded at 488kbps. There is no Digital 5.1 audio selection, just Dolby Digital Stereo. And primary audio is in Japanese. There is no English dub tracks, for those interested in that.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Surprisingly, there are no special features. I would expected maybe a textless opening or ending, especially for the JAM PROJECT fans out there who enjoy the opening theme. But unfortunately, there are no special features at all.
As for the DVD-insert booklet, there is an 8-page prologue and character guide for the first volume.
If anything, I’m actually very stoked to have a “Super Robots Wars” animated series released in the US. It took forever for the video game series to come out in the US, so I’m enjoying the fact that Bandai Visual/Honneamise has released it in the US.
The negating factors for a lot of people may be that it doesn’t have English dubbing and the fact that the first volume has two episodes (out of nine volumes). Personally, I’ve been watching anime for so long that I could easily remember when I purchased anime LD’s and would get only one episode and paid a premium price for it. But I can understand some people who were hoping for an English dub or more episodes per volume.
All in all, I’m excited about how this series will play out from beginning to the end. For “Super Robot Wars” fans, an animation based on the video game series is a long time coming.
So far, volume one has been entertaining and wished there were special features (like the OAV series) and more episodes but nevertheless, enjoyed it.
I look forward to watching the second volume!
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” in an animated television series… A long time coming!
+ Mecha battle fest! Cool animated battles and cool ideas of weapon utilization.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
- Only two episodes on the first volume
SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION – THE ANIMATION (J!-ENT ANIME DVD REVIEW)
May 19, 2008 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment
“For mecha fans, the ‘SUPER ROBOT WARS’ video games have been a staple for mecha hobbyists and mecha video game fans for 17 years. Having only been released in Japan on video game consoles and drama CD’s, the SRW series gets animated and ‘SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION’ showcases awesome mecha battles and mecha designs that make the series so popular. Action-packed and all out mecha eye candy!”
DVD INFORMATION:
DVD TITLE: SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION – THE ANIMATION
DURATION: Approx. 85 Minutes (Disc 1), Approx. 58 minutes (Disc 2)
DVD INFORMATION: COLOR/NTSC / Japanese Audio (Dolby Digital 5.1 ch and Dolby Digital Stereo / English subtitles, 16:9LB (except on some bonus content)
CATALOG #: BUDH0128
COMPANY: Bandai Visual/Honneamise
STAFF INFORMATION:
DIRECTOR: Kawagoe Jun
SERIES PLANNER: Nishizono Satoru
CHARACTER CONCEPTION: Kohno Sachiko (LAY UP)
MECHA CONCEPTION: Miyatake Kazutaka, Katoki Hajime, Saitoh Kazue, Kanemaru Hitoshi, Ando Hiroshi, Moriya Junichi
CHARACTER DESIGN: Tanaka Ryo
MECHA DESIGN: Saiki YAsuhiro
CG Mecha Design: Takakura Takeshi
3D CG: Honda Toshihiro
ART: Miyano Takashi
COLOR SETTING: Harada Sachiko
PHOTOGRAPHY: Satoh Masato
EDITOR: Taguma Jun
SOUND DIRECTOR: Nakano Tohru
MUSIC: Saitoh Tsuneyoshi
THEME SONG: JAM Project
SUPERVISOR: Terada Takanobu
ANIMATION PRODUCTION: BRAIN’S-BASE
PRODUCED BY: BANDAI VISUAL CO., LTD.
Original Story: BANPRESTO
The future. Humankind, once driven to the brink of annihilation, has regrouped under the banner of the Earth Federation, which protects its citizens from the very real threat of alien invasion. Seeking to increase its defenses, the Earth Federation Army has continued development of Personal Troopers, a form of mobile weaponry used to combat the alien menace. But when the Bartoll, the latest and most advanced Personal Trooper is unveiled to an eager public, something goes terribly wrong…
I have always been enthusiastic for mecha anime and for the “Super Robot Taisen” aka “Super Robot Wars” video games. The series has been the definitive staple of mecha games for mecha fans.
As a child, I always watched anime series that featured mecha controlled by one or five characters but my favorite mecha anime were series that would incorporate a large group of robots and characters (such as “Voltron (Near Universe” aka “Armored Fleet Dairugger XV”).
Even before these anime series, as a kid, I owned a lot of “Shogun Warriors”. A toyline that was released in the late 70′s that would feature characters such as Raideen, Danguard Ace, Mazinger, Combatra and some who became part of the “Super Robot Taisen” video games.
But why the series has become so popular because it was the ultimate collaboration of your favorite robots and characters from many series together in one game.
Pretty much the concept of the video game series was taking all these popular mecha robots from many different anime series and universes such as Gundam, Getter Robo, Evangelion, Dancougar, L-Gaim, Raideen, Mazinger Z, Cybuster, The Big O, Macross, Nadesico, Tekkaman Blade, etc. and create a tactical RPG.
For video game fans familiar with the popular Nintendo DS video game “Jump Superstars” which takes popular characters from the popular manga or anime series, this is pretty much a similar concept but “Super Robot Wars” has been around since 1991 with the first game “Super Robot Taisen” released for Nintendo’s Game Boy and has been on nearly every console (yes, including the XBOX 360).
Over a decade later, their have been dozens upon dozens of “Super Robot Wars” video games for a variety of consoles and released only in Japan. Mainly because of licensing issues and with many anime in the US is licensed to various companies, a US release was not possible.
That was until a video game titled “Super Robot Wars Original Generation” was released on the Game Boy Advance in Japan back in 2002 which featured unlicensed characters and an original storyline. The second GBA video game for the Original Generation was released in 2005 and sure enough, both games were distributed by Atlus in the United States in 2006.
And so Bandai Visual/Honneamise has distributed the three episode OAV series and the anime television series to the US.
“SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION – THE ANIMATION” is the epitome of mecha eye candy.
The three episode OAV series is about the unveiling of the new-model Personal Troopers (PT’s). New mobile weaponry for the Earth Federation Army and members of the army are gathered together with high-ranking military personnel for this joyous occasion.
That was until the PT’s started attacking everyone at the ceremony and then different parts around the world unexpectedly and destroying everything in their midst. Including the kidnapping of pilots, military personnel and students of prestigious universities.
It appears another scientist working with the EOTI Organization is involved and his goal is to mass create PT armies to unify the world by force and thus he is using these kidnapped people who will literally turned to his personal puppets against the Earth Federation.
This pits the pilots of the Earth Federation Army versus the mass army of PT’s. And to make things worse, the new technology on these PT units is the ability to learn the attacks of the opponent, download the information and the mass collective would predict each of their moves.
So, what literally takes place in these three episodes is an all out mecha war!
Episode 1 is titled “Swarm of the Bartoll” and features the first wave of attacks around the world by the PT’s and the first major battle between the ATX Team: Lt. Nanbu (Kyosuke) and 2nd Lt. Browning (Excellen) as they learn the hard way that the PT’s adapt to their fighting techniques quickly.
Episode 2 is titled “People=Parts” and you learn why the PT’s and Bartolls are kidnapping the Earth Defense pilots, military and students. Also, learning more about the scientist Wilhelm von Jurgen who developed the ODE system (the system that the PT’s are utilizing). With the capture of one of the PT’s and seeing how humans are used, the team worries that their pilots will now be part of that ODE system, which is literally a death sentence for them.
Also, the Earth Defense teams need to figure out a new strategy on how to defeat the PT’s since they have adjusted to each of the pilot’s fighting style.
Episode 3 is titled “Captive of the Maze” and this episode is awesome as the whole cast is involved in an all out battle against the PT’s. But to make things worse for the Earth Defense Force, the new group of PT’s are now piloted by the kidnapped pilots (their own friends and teammates) who are now being controlled.
Can the Earth Defense team save their teammates or will they have to kill them in battle?
I really enjoyed the various fighting styles for each pilot and each mecha. Especially when everyone comes together for episode three and you see some of the devastating attacks by the more experienced pilots. This all out battle was just exciting to watch and I can definitely see how these would tie into merchandise releases in Japan. Each character and robot has its own distinct fighting style, they look awesome and their armaments are just amazing.
The staff for this series features impressive talent. Director Kawagoe Jun is known probably in America for his work as director for “Transformers: Energon” but also his work for the “Shin Getter Robo” OAV’s. Tanaka Ryo for character design was a key animator for “Macross Plus” and character designer for “Lupin III: Missed by a Dollar”. Saiki Yasuhiro for mecha design has worked in key animation for several “Pokemon” films plus “New Fist of the North Star”.
The animation was very cool and in having to create mecha battle one after the other and trying to keep the battles fluid, especially with so many characters and robots must have been unique and challenging. There are times when the animation is seen from overhead and just watching the mecha walk, that was very cool and those type of scenes were definitely well-planned.
As for sound, Bandai continues its excellence in the sound category by keeping audio high at a 448 kbps audio mix. Japanese voice acting was well-done and I appreciate Bandai Visual for utilizing the same voice actors from previous SRW video games.
But putting my mecha enthusiasm to the side…
Earlier I talked about how I enjoyed mecha with a lot of robots and plenty of characters. Well, “Super Robot Wars: Original Generation” is an example of that.
But when you have a large group of characters, there is typically an introductory process of character introductions and character development.
With the OAV series, knowledge of the characters is continuing from the second Game Boy Advance series.
And for video game fanatics, they know that Atlus games are highly collectible because of low print runs and the fact that the game came out in the US in 2006, when most people have moved on to a Nintendo DS and a Sony PSP.
So, how many people own the Game Boy Advance games in the US, I would expect the hardcore fans would. But the casual fans, probably not.
So, with that being said, watching the OAV series has a feeling of catching an episode of a television series late in the game.
Watching a dozen or more characters and really not knowing who is who.
Fortunately, I think that Bandai Visual anticipated that, so they included an informative 24-page booklet that not only showcases the robots but each of their pilots and other major players from the SRW:OG universe. Also, with the characters talking about past battles (that relate to the video game series), it was really cool to see information on what is ATX Project, SRX Project or Wong Heavy Industries to name a few.
Also, in the booklet, you get photos of the front and back of the mecha, their flight form, armaments and key information. Also, information on several battle carriers. For the characters in the series, you get information on who they are and also several character designs of the full body, front and side head perspectives.
On a second bonus disc, the DVD features cast interviews, textless opening and endings, music videos by JAM Project, background information and glossary.
For the bonus disc, the interviews with the Japanese cast was fun to watch. Especially those who have been providing the voices for the video games for a decade and hearing them comment on the popularity of the series and how here they are doing the voices for the video games. That was fun to watch!
Also, for JAM Project fans, there are several music video clips and definitely something to keep you tide over for now, especially if you are anticipating their Otakon 2008 live performance
The only thing I wished was included on the DVD or booklet was an interview with director Kawagoe Jun or even director’s or staff commentary on the DVD to learn the mindset of what Kawagoe and series planner Nishizono Satoru wanted to accomplish with this anime.
I enjoyed how Bandai Visual’s past DVD releases has put the viewer in their shoes and to get understanding of key decisions made in the storyline, the challenges they faced and overall feelings of the finalized animation or key moments. For a series this big, it would have been cool to get a peak into their mindset.
But still, you do get a lot of cool special features on the bonus disc and the booklet is really informative.
Yes, I’m a mecha fan and yes, I am a “Super Robot Taisen” fan. So, for me, it was awesome to finally watch it animated.
So, for the hardcore video game fans, “SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION” was mecha eye candy and was fun to watch.
But for those curious or not familiar with the second Game Boy Advance game, they may come into this anime and feel overwhelmed by the vast number of characters and robots.
I can see this as similar to “Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children” and the people who watched this without playing the “Final Fantasy VII” video game and possibly getting lost in the shuffle.
But “Super Robot Wars” is just an all out mecha battle fest and for me, I enjoyed it. Especially the various characters and one can only want to see more episodes planned in the future.
I enjoy the large military/mecha anime series because of the various potential of storylines for each character, the division of different departments, the possible love triangles.
In SRW:OG’s case, with different pilots from different regions of the world working together, but most of all, the excitement for the sheer number of robots involved in this series is just incredible. This is a mecha hobbyist/collector’s dream.
But nevertheless, “Super Robot Wars” is about the tactical experience of battling other mecha. The enjoyment of Super Robot Wars is through the experience from playing the video games. This anime series is complimenting that experience and this series does a good job of showing the various mecha, the battles and strategies to overcome the opponent.
You can watch and enjoy this anime series without knowing who the characters and their background are. Although, those who are wanting character development, that is where you may want to purchase the previous video games on Game Boy Advance and also the “SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION DIVINE WARS” DVD’s (available now). Also, the inclusion of the booklet does help a bit as well.
So, for those who are interested in “SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION”, I’m going to give you my best advice (NOTE: this is as of May 2008) that you probably are not going to find anywhere else. Especially if you want to understand the background of Original Generation and the characters thoroughly.
Purchase the “SUPER ROBOT WARS: Original Generation” from K-Mart (yes, one of the few places to find the first game for “new”). The game is a GBA game now on clearance or sold at $19.99. You maybe able to find it at your local game store for “used”.
Then purchase and watch the “SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION – DIVINE WARS” which is the televised series now available on DVD from Bandai Visual/Honneamise.
But knowing that many newbies to “SUPER ROBOT WARS” will go read a game review, of course, the second SRW:OG game is the better of the two. So, if you don’t intend on purchasing the first game, purchase the “SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION 2″ which you can find new at your local Gamestop/EB/Software Etc. This game can also be found for $19.99 or used. Of course, if you are reading this review post-2008, you should be able to find the game new or used via Amazon or eBay.
Then after playing the second game, watch the “SUPER ROBOT WARS: ORIGINAL GENERATION – THE ANIMATION” OAV series.
Whether it’s the video game or anime experience you are truly after, the fact that you are interested in “Super Robot Wars” is your passion for mecha. And what better time than now, to get into “SUPER ROBOT WARS”.
Check it out!
+ “SUPER ROBOT WARS” finally gets animated
+ Large number of characters and robots
+ Mecha battle fest! Cool animated battles and cool ideas of weapon utilization.
+ Well done voice acting with many of the original voice talent from the video games involved.
+ Cool bonus disc and informative 24-page booklet
- If you are unfamiliar with the second GBA video game, the characters of the series may not mean anything to you.
- For those who need and prefer an English dub, this DVD is ONLY Japanese with English subtitles.
