Gunbuster

About Gunbuster

Here is what Gunbuster (トップをねらえ! GunBuster) is about, retold in plain terms: an action, drama and mecha anime by GAINAX and Studio Fantasia (1988). The setup: In the very near future, a race of huge, insect like aliens is discovered traveling the galaxy. These aliens seem dedicated to the eradication of the human species as it takes its first steps away from the solar system, and they are getting closer and closer to Earth.

Beyond that: Humanity has responded by developing spacegoing battleships and giant fighting robots. These robots are piloted by the best and brightest of Earth's youth, picked from training schools around the world. The story starts in the year 2023, not long after the first clashes with the aliens, and centers on young Noriko Takaya.

As an action title, fight choreography, pacing and sound design carry much of the weight. Voice work is led by Noriko Hidaka as Noriko Takaya and Rei Sakuma as Kazumi Amano. Think of it as a pick for viewers who like fast, high-impact fights. The run is 6 episodes in total, so you know what you are signing up for.

Production & Appeal

GAINAX and Studio Fantasia is the studio behind Gunbuster, and its direction shapes everything from character design to motion. Within the action category, fight choreography, pacing and sound design carry much of the weight. A 7.7/10 score points to a dependable, well-liked series. Voice casting, including Noriko Hidaka as Noriko Takaya, adds to the appeal for fans who follow seiyuu. It aired in 1988, which makes it easy to place in the wider anime calendar.