Gachiakuta [Season 1 Episodes 1-24]

Gachiakuta Season 1: A Raw, Stylish Dive Into Class War and Survival

Let’s cut to the chase: Gachiakuta isn’t your average shonen anime. Studio Bones—yes, the same crew behind Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Mob Psycho 100—has dropped a gritty, visually striking series that’s part dystopian drama, part action-packed adventure, and 100% worth your time. Premiering in July 2025, this 24-episode debut (split into two cours, for those who care about anime jargon) follows Rudo, a scrappy teen from the slums who lives off the trash discarded by the wealthy “Above” city. And let’s just say, when fans found out it wasn’t a measly 13 episodes? The hype was real. “YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS” one MyAnimeList user screamed, and honestly? Same energy.

First off, the world-building hits hard. Imagine a place where the rich toss away perfectly good tech, food, and even weapons like they’re nothing, while people like Rudo risk their lives rummaging through mountains of garbage just to eat. The contrast is brutal—think Attack on Titan’s walled city vibes, but with more neon and less Titans (so far). Rudo’s daily grind is relatable in the worst way: he’s got an adoptive dad, Regto, who begs him to stop “diving” for trash, but what choice does he have? Survival’s not a game here—it’s a way of life. And when Rudo stumbles on something bigger than just scrap metal? The story explodes.

Visually, Gachiakuta is a feast. Studio Bones’ signature fluid animation shines in every fight scene—Rudo’s quick moves and the “Cleaners” (the Above’s enforcers) are rendered with sharp lines and dynamic angles that make you lean forward. Even the trash heaps look weirdly beautiful, like a post-apocalyptic art installation. Fans on forums can’t stop gushing about the art style: “Rudo’s transformation looks so tuff fr,” one user raved, and they’re right—when he unlocks his powers later in the season, it’s a visual spectacle that’ll make you rewind.

Now, let’s talk pacing. Some viewers have grumbled that it’s slow, especially in the early episodes. “The story is slow paced in general,” a manga reader noted on MyAnimeList, “but it’s slow but never boring.” And honestly? They’re onto something. Gachiakuta takes its time building tension—you feel Rudo’s frustration, his longing to escape the slums, and the weight of the class divide before any major fights go down. When the action does kick in (like Episode 22, which fans are calling a highlight), it hits harder because you care about the characters. Rudo’s not just a hero—he’s a kid who’s been failed by the system, and his anger is palpable.

The themes here are unapologetically political. Social inequality isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the whole point. The Above treats the slums like a dumping ground, and the Cleaners? They’re basically cops who get away with murder. It’s dark, but it’s real. One fan summed it up perfectly: “This isn’t just about fighting monsters—it’s about fighting a world that’s broken.” And in a time when “eat the rich” is more than a meme, Gachiakuta feels weirdly timely.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. The characters are what make this show stick. Rudo’s loyalty to his friends (shoutout to the crew he dives with) is heartwarming, and his banter with Regto adds much-needed humor. Even the villains have layers—you might not root for them, but you’ll understand why they’re so messed up. “Gountess’ power is such a cheat code 💀” another fan joked, referencing one of the show’s more over-the-top antagonists, and it’s true—her ability to manipulate trash is both cool and terrifying.

If there’s one complaint, it’s that some plot points feel rushed. The “Appraiser” class twist (Rudo’s power to see the value in things) is introduced quickly, and a few side characters don’t get enough screen time. But hey, with 24 episodes, there’s room to breathe. And let’s not forget the biggest win: Gachiakuta Season 2 is already greenlit. Fans are losing it—“GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME🔥🙏” one user prayed, and honestly? We’re right there with them.

So, who’s this show for? If you love anime that makes you think and makes your heart race, Gachiakuta is a must-watch. It’s not perfect—pacing issues and some underdeveloped arcs hold it back—but it’s bold, stylish, and unafraid to tackle big ideas. Rudo’s journey from trash diver to rebel is just getting started, and we’re here for every messy, exciting step.

Final verdict? Gachiakuta Season 1 is a solid 8/10. It’s got heart, it’s got edge, and it’s proof that Studio Bones still knows how to make anime that matters. Whether you’re a manga reader or an anime-only fan, this is one series you don’t want to sleep on. As one fan put it: “If you hated this episode/chapter, just watch/read something else.” But trust me—you won’t want to.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to rewatch Episode 22. That fight scene? Chef’s kiss.

— A fan who’s already counting down to Season 2.