Bouken! Iczer 3 [Episodes 1-6]

Bouken! Iczer 3: A 90s OVA That Still Packs a Punch

Let’s be real—most 90s anime OVAs are either forgotten relics or beloved classics, and Bouken! Iczer 3? It’s definitely the latter. This 6-episode sequel to Fight!! Iczer One might be over 30 years old, but it still slaps for anyone who loves giant robots, chaotic space battles, and a protagonist who’s equal parts hyper and heroic.

First off, let’s set the scene: Earth’s in trouble (shocker, right?). Neos Gold, the self-proclaimed successor to the original series’ Big Gold, is sending her armada to wipe out humanity. Enter Iczer 3, the younger sister of Iczer 1, who’s basically the anime equivalent of a kid who just got their first bike—excited, a little clumsy, but so ready to save the world. She’s got the last remaining Earth battle cruiser on her side, and even though she’s new to this whole “saving the planet” thing, her unbridled enthusiasm makes up for every misstep.

Now, let’s talk about the vibes. This OVA is pure 90s nostalgia. The animation? Bold, vibrant, and full of that classic hand-drawn charm—think neon mechs, explosive laser fights, and character designs that scream “I was drawn in 1990 and proud of it.” The music? A synth-heavy soundtrack that’s equal parts epic and cheesy, perfect for hyping you up during battle scenes. And the story? It’s straightforward but effective: good vs. evil, with a side of sisterly legacy (Iczer 1 is recovering from her past battles, so it’s up to Iczer 3 to step up).

But what do fans actually think? Let’s dive into the MyAnimeList discussions. One user summed it up best: “Iczer 3 is like a love letter to 90s mecha—over-the-top, fun, and unapologetic.” Another pointed out that while the plot isn’t groundbreaking, the action sequences are “insane” and the characters have “surprising heart.” Iczer 3 herself is a fan favorite—her energy is contagious, and watching her grow from a rookie to a badass defender feels rewarding.

Sure, there are flaws. Some fans say the pacing is a bit rushed (it is only 6 episodes, after all), and the villain, Neos Gold, isn’t the most complex. But honestly? Who cares? This isn’t a show for deep philosophical debates—it’s for when you want to turn off your brain, watch giant robots blow stuff up, and root for the underdog.

What makes Bouken! Iczer 3 stand out, though, is its heart. Iczer 3 isn’t a perfect hero—she makes mistakes, she panics, but she never gives up. That relatability is key, especially for younger viewers. It’s a reminder that even if you’re new to something, your passion and determination can make a difference.

If you’re into classic mecha, retro anime, or just want something fun and action-packed, Bouken! Iczer 3 is worth a watch. It’s not the most polished anime out there, but it’s got soul—and sometimes, that’s all you need. So grab some snacks, turn up the volume, and let Iczer 3 take you on a wild, nostalgic ride. You won’t regret it.

Final Verdict: 8/10. A must-watch for 90s anime fans and anyone who loves a good underdog story.

P.S. If you’re a fan of the original Iczer One, you’ll get extra kicks from the callbacks and references. But even if you’re new to the series, you can jump right in—no prior knowledge needed!