Jump in a neon-drenched Cyberpunk Japan with Akudama Drive!
Hello again, anime fiends! Today’s another day to feast on an underrated gem! Cyberpunk: Edgerunners captured the online community’s attention with its captivating narrative and cyberpunk aesthetics. But, it’s perplexing that Akudama Drive, another remarkable anime in the same genre, didn’t receive the widespread discussion it truly deserves. Let us introduce you first to what Akudama Drive is.
In a future version of Japan, this series introduces us to the enigmatic Akudama, a group of notorious criminals with intriguing abilities and captivating personalities. Here, cyberpunk and high-octane action intertwine seamlessly, creating a symphony of visual splendor and captivating storytelling. Akudama Drive delivers a thrilling and fresh take on the science fiction genre, weaving a tale of desperate heists, political conspiracy, and self-redemption
Despite being overshadowed by anime giants like Jujutsu Kaisen and Haikyuu during its initial release, there’s no better time than now to immerse yourself in the neon-drenched world of Akudama Drive. Allow me to present the irresistible reasons why you should prioritize this one at the very top of your gushing watchlist!
Jump in a neon-drenched Cyberpunk Japan with Akudama Drive!
Cyberpunk Set-up
Akudama Drive | Muse Asia | Series
Cyberpunk holds an irresistible allure, evoking images of Blade Runner’s cityscape, where holograms and city lights reign supreme. In Akudama Drive, Osaka becomes a canvas saturated with pop art and ostentatious aesthetics, embodying the very essence of cyberpunk. It masterfully captures the contrasting facets of the genre. The dazzling lights and advanced technology dominate the forefront and a sense of emptiness and monotony linger in the margins.
This stark contrast adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the series. Furthermore, the story delves into the lives of individuals concealed beneath the superficial allure of the city’s colors. It is within these hidden depths that the actual narrative unfolds. It explores the dark underbelly and societal repercussions of a technological revolution. The result is a captivating journey that exposes the dirt and grime beneath the sheen of progress.
Memorable Characters
Akudama Drive | Muse Asia | Series
Akudama Drive bursts with a kaleidoscope of vibrant and captivating characters. Their stylish, pop artsy character cards that accompany their introductions complement their colorful personas. Each character design possesses the potential to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the hipness of Chainsaw Man’s or the distinctiveness found in the cast of Akame Ga Kill.
Moreover, the series excels in achieving a delicate equilibrium in character development. While some characters may not receive extensive exploration, they are granted adequate screen time and impactful moments. Thereby, engraving their presence into our memories and elevating them to the same level of memorability as the main protagonists. In the end, the anime ensures that every character leaves an indelible mark within the narrative fabric.
Over-the-top action
Akudama Drive | Muse Asia | Series
In Akudama Drive, dull moments are non-existent as it forbids compromise when it comes to bloodshed. Yes, it is very gory and gritty when the characters become wildly violent in combat. Also, the soundtrack fits the action’s exuberance and the anime’s superb opening track.
If only the anime had earned its rightful acclaim! The one-on-one rain scene should certainly be celebrated as one of the uniquely animated action sequences in anime history. Unrestrained in its own madness, the anime’s over-the-top action never ceases to take your breath away. And we’re not exaggerating on this, everything literally explodes with an array of colors in every direction!
Compelling worldbuilding
Akudama Drive | Muse Asia | Series
In just 12 episodes, Akudama Drive delivers one of the most gratifying displays of world-building in recent anime memory. It delves into the destructive consequences of blind adherence to the law, where democracy can swiftly transform into tyranny. This oppressive regime stifles individual thought, compelling people to submit to the authority that controls these rigid rules.
The series also ventures the complex affinity between morality and technology. It illustrates how the absence of the former renders us no different from the stern and callous nature of the latter. Additionally, in each episode, a segment called Bunny and Shark serves as a compelling explanatory bit. It sheds light on the war that ignited the tyrannical regime. Also, it acts as a coherent transition, providing a peek at what lies ahead in the episode that amps up the anticipation.
What are you waiting for? Hurry and watch the series on Muse Asia’s Youtube Account before time runs out!
