Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers [Season 1 Episode 1]

Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers – Season 1 Episode 1 Review: A Promising Yet Flawed Start

The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers finally premiered on April 5, 2025, and fans of the franchise were quick to dive into the first episode. Produced by Sanzigen Studios and directed by Shigeru Morikawa, the series picks up after the events of Guilty Gear -Strive-, promising a fresh storyline centered around Ky Kiske and Dizzy’s wedding. But does Episode 1 live up to the hype? Let’s break it down.

The Premise and Initial Impressions

The episode wastes no time throwing viewers into the world of Guilty Gear, with a whirlwind of exposition and character introductions. For fans of the games, this is a treat—seeing beloved characters like Ky, Dizzy, and Sin animated is a joy. However, newcomers might feel a bit overwhelmed by the rapid-fire pacing and lack of context.

One thing that stands out immediately is the animation quality. Sanzigen Studios, known for their work on Arpeggio of Blue Steel and IDOLiSH7, delivers stunning visuals. The fight scenes are fluid, and the character designs stay true to the game’s iconic aesthetic. The music, composed by Ryo Takahashi, also shines, blending rock and orchestral elements to match the franchise’s signature style.

The Story So Far

Episode 1 kicks off with Ky and Dizzy’s wedding, a moment fans have been waiting for. The ceremony is interrupted by Unika, a mysterious character whose motives remain unclear. This sets the stage for the central conflict, hinting at deeper political and personal struggles ahead.

While the premise is intriguing, some fans have pointed out that the episode tries to cram too much into its runtime. Side characters flash by without much development, and the pacing feels rushed. As one reviewer put it, “It’s like they’re trying to introduce the entire roster in 20 minutes.”

That said, the emotional core of the episode—Ky and Dizzy’s relationship—is handled well. Their chemistry is palpable, and the wedding scene is beautifully animated, making it a highlight for many viewers.

Fan Reactions and Discussions

The online discourse around Episode 1 has been mixed. On platforms like Reddit and MyAnimeList, fans are divided:

• The Positives: Many praise the animation and faithfulness to the source material. One fan wrote, “The fight scenes are next-level, and seeing Ky and Dizzy finally tie the knot is everything I wanted.” Others appreciate the darker tone, which sets it apart from typical anime adaptations of fighting games.

• The Criticisms: Some viewers feel the episode lacks a “wow factor.” The exposition-heavy dialogue and rushed pacing are common complaints. A comment on MyAnimeList reads, “It’s cool, but it feels like they’re checking boxes instead of telling a story.”

Interestingly, the introduction of Unika has sparked theories about her role in the series. Is she a villain, a misunderstood anti-hero, or something else entirely? Fans are already speculating, which bodes well for the show’s ability to engage its audience.

Final Verdict: A Solid but Uneven Start

Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers Episode 1 is a promising beginning, but it’s not without flaws. The animation and music are top-notch, and the central storyline has potential. However, the breakneck pacing and lack of character development for side players hold it back from being truly great.

For fans of the franchise, this is a must-watch. For newcomers, it might take a few more episodes to fully click. Either way, the series has set the stage for an exciting journey, and I’m eager to see where it goes next.

Rating: 7.5/10 – A strong foundation with room to grow.

What did you think of the episode? Let me know in the comments!