X

About X

If you are hunting for a new action series, X (X -エックス-) deserves a look (1996). The setup goes like this. At its core: The future of the universe rests on one young man, Kamui Shirou, who must destroy either the Dragons of Earth or the Dragons of Heaven - two opposing armies. He alone must decide whether humanity should be destroyed to create a purified universe, or whether it should be protected to preserve civilization.

From there, two oracles, the sisters Hinoto and Kanoe foresee the coming of the Dragons and predict opposite outcomes. Each sister gathers strength and ammunition to insure her own vision for the future. However, neither sister realizes that there is one man who has an even greater power than the Dragons, and that ultimately he will determine the fate of the earth.

As an action title, fight choreography, pacing and sound design carry much of the weight. Sorata Arisugawa (Kouichi Yamadera) and Kamui Shirou (Tomokazu Seki) are two of the characters you will meet early. Think of it as a pick for viewers who like fast, high-impact fights. The run is 1 episodes in total, so you know what you are signing up for.

Production & Appeal

Animation is handled by MADHOUSE, so the studio's house style defines how X looks and moves on screen. Within the action category, fight choreography, pacing and sound design carry much of the weight. Its 6.1/10 score suggests opinions are split, so it suits viewers who already like the genre. On the casting side, Kouichi Yamadera voicing Sorata Arisugawa gives the lead role a recognizable voice. Released in 1996, it competed with that season's other new series for attention.