Stellvia of the Universe

About Stellvia of the Universe

Stellvia of the Universe (宇宙のステルヴィア) arrives as an action anime by Xebec (2003), and the premise is easy to summarize. At its core: The year is 2356 A.D. - 189 years after a distant supernova caused a global catastrophe that wiped out 99% of the world population. To keep track on all space activities, mankind has built colossal space stations called "foundations" all over the Solar System.

Further in, after passing the Space Academy entrance exams, Shima Katase embarks to the Earth-based foundation Stellvia to fulfill her dream of seeing the galaxy and to prevent another interstellar catastrophe from destroying Earth.

With action at the core, fight choreography, pacing and sound design carry much of the weight. Voice work is led by Ai Nonaka as Shima Katase and Daichuu Mizushima as Kouta Otoyama. If you count yourself among viewers who like fast, high-impact fights, put it on your list. With 26 episodes in total, there is enough room for the story to develop.

Production & Appeal

Animation is handled by Xebec, so the studio's house style defines how Stellvia of the Universe looks and moves on screen. The action focus matters here: fight choreography, pacing and sound design carry much of the weight. At 7.0/10 it earns a solid reception, a safe pick for fans of the genre. On the casting side, Ai Nonaka voicing Shima Katase gives the lead role a recognizable voice. Released in 2003, it competed with that season's other new series for attention.