Did YAIBA Just Unleash the Best Animation of the Year in Its Debut Episode?

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Summary

  • YAIBA: Samurai Legend features stunning animation & refreshing characters in its successful first episode.
  • The series introduces a nostalgic shōnen feel with a compelling narrative and powerful combat scenes.
  • WIT Studio’s work on YAIBA’s animation, directed by Takahiro Hasui, showcases a perfect blend of modern and nostalgic styles.

2025 has already passed a fourth of its way, and the spring anime season is now in full swing, promising an exciting lineup with several eagerly awaited new shows, including the comeback of Gōshō Aoyama’s “YAIBA”, which is back after 30 years. In the debut episode of the new series titled “YAIBA: Samurai Legend”, a hint of the epic showdown between the main character and his arch-nemesis, Takeshi Onimaru, is suggested as the narrator sets the stage, indicating that in this world, immense powers were once wielded and frequently clashed.

Indeed, it seems that WIT Studio has provided us with a strong contender for the season’s top animation with the opening scene of YAIBA. Before we delve into the epic struggle between Yaiba and Onimaru, each wielding powerful forces, let’s take a moment to appreciate the captivating animation quality on display.

What’s YAIBA About?

A Nostalgic Shōnen Feeling

YAIBA: Samurai Legend revolves around its protagonist, Yaiba Kurogane, a young man who lived with his esteemed swordsman father deep in the forest until his father sends him to reside with the Mine family. The head of this household is none other than his kendo rival. Naive about societal norms and eager to be a samurai despite their extinction, Yaiba eagerly adapts to his new surroundings, thrilled at the possibility of encountering numerous martial arts practitioners in one location.

One day, Yaiba tags along with Sayaka to her school’s kendo club and crosses paths with Takeshi Onimaru, the school’s top martial artist at the dojo. In a sparring match that ensues, Yaiba loses, yet he feels an exhilarating spark ignite within him, recognizing for the first time a potential rival. Unbeknownst to him, the roles of these two characters are destined to unfold in an ancient conflict. As the story unfolds, Onimaru falls under the influence of a cursed sword, transforming into the vessel of the Demon King. From the outset, the series subtly hints at supernatural elements woven into its plotline, setting the stage for a grand, otherworldly battle that initiates the series.

The Brilliant Animation of Episode 1

WIT Studio Is Cooking

The opening scene of “YAIBA: Samurai Legend” served as a tantalizing introduction that likely won over skeptics about whether this series was worth investing their time this season. With WIT Studios, the team behind the first three seasons of “Attack on Titan“, handling production, many had high expectations going into episode 1. However, few could have anticipated the level of exceptional animation, or “sakuga,” displayed in the very first episode of “YAIBA: Samurai Legend“.

Discuss revitalizing a timeless series. The team behind it includes director Takahiro Hasui, known for directing “Mob Psycho 100 III” at BONES, as well as Tōko Machida who has scripted several episodes of “Akame ga KILL!” serving as the scriptwriter and overseeing the series’ composition. Additionally, Yoshimichi Kameda, a renowned action animator from the past decade, or perhaps even two decades, is one of the animation directors and was in charge of the animation direction for episode 1.

If you don’t recognize the name, let me introduce you to the animation director who created the memorable Roy Mustang scene in “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood”. The opening battle sequence in the show, filled with an exciting light display and a nostalgic trip down memory lane as it escalates into a dramatic beam clash between the two fighters, reminiscent of “Dragon Ball Z”, certainly catches the viewer’s attention. However, it is the remainder of the episode that truly leaves an impression on the viewer.

Episode 1 of “YAIBA: Samurai Legend” blends a vintage, 90s anime aesthetic with cutting-edge modern animation, intricate choreography, and fluid movement that’s not overwhelmed by excessive special effects. This series demonstrates an unusual approach to depicting combat scenes that are less focused on superpowers but still maintain an exhilarating quality distinct from the initial sequences. From the first episode, it appears that “YAIBA: Samurai Legend” could deliver stunning visuals and some of the best animated sequences we might see this year. However, only time will confirm if these predictions hold true.

YAIBA: Samurai Legend is available to stream on Netflix.

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2025-04-10 16:08