Gun X Sword [Season 1 Episodes 1-26]

Gun X Sword: A Wild Ride of Revenge, Romance, and Ridiculousness

If you’re into anime that blends revenge, mecha battles, and a sprinkle of romance, Gun X Sword (2005) is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. Directed by Gorō Taniguchi (Code Geass) and written by Hideyuki Kurata, this 26-episode series follows Van, a stoic swordsman on a quest to avenge his fiancée’s death at the hands of the enigmatic “Claw Man.” Set on the “Planet of Endless Illusion,” the show serves up a mix of Western aesthetics, sci-fi mecha action, and a cast of characters who are as quirky as they are compelling.

The Good, the Bad, and the Hilarious: What Fans Are Saying

1. A Slow Burn That Pays Off

Many fans admit the series starts slow, with a “monster-of-the-week” format that feels repetitive early on. One viewer noted, “The first few episodes were a drag, but once the plot kicked in, I was hooked.” The shift from episodic adventures to a more cohesive narrative around the midway point is a common praise. The Claw Man’s mysterious motives and Van’s single-minded revenge keep the tension high, even if the pacing isn’t perfect.

2. Van: The Ultimate Brooding Protagonist (or Lack Thereof)

Van’s character is divisive. Some love his deadpan humor and unwavering focus, while others find him frustratingly static. “He’s like a rock—unchanging, unfeeling, and somehow still cool,” one fan joked. His lack of overt emotional growth is a sticking point for some, but others argue it fits his lone-wolf persona. As one Redditor put it, “Van’s not here to grow; he’s here to kill the Claw. Period.”

3. Wendy and Van: The Will-They-Won’t-They Debate

The dynamic between Van and Wendy, the young girl who tags along on his journey, sparks endless discussion. Some fans shipped them hard, especially after Wendy’s growth spurt in the finale. “That final scene where they reunite? Chef’s kiss,” gushed one viewer. Others, however, saw their relationship as purely platonic. “Wendy’s like his little sister, not a love interest,” argued another. The ambiguity leaves room for interpretation, which fans either love or hate.

4. Pricilla and Carmen: The Forgotten Romances

Pricilla’s unrequited crush on Van and Carmen’s subtle flirtations add layers to the story, but not everyone’s satisfied with how these threads resolve. “Pricilla deserved better than a vague promise and a locket,” lamented a MyAnimeList user. Meanwhile, Carmen’s confession in the finale caught some off guard: “Wait, when did that happen?!”

5. The Claw Man: Love to Hate Him

The villain’s over-the-top evilness is a highlight. “He’s so cartoonishly cruel, you can’t help but root for his downfall,” said one fan. His lack of a clear motive, though, frustrates others. “Why did he kill Elena? Just because he’s crazy? Lame.” Still, his final defeat—crushed by a literal rock—is so absurd it’s iconic. “Poetic justice at its finest,” laughed a viewer.

6. The Mecha Fights: Pure Spectacle

The armor battles are a standout, blending Western duels with giant robot clashes. “The fights are chaotic, stylish, and just plain fun,” praised a fan. The finale’s showdown delivers, even if the mechanics of “Overflow” (a last-minute power-up) feel rushed. “It’s nonsense, but who cares? It looks awesome.”

7. That Damn Turtle

No discussion of Gun X Sword is complete without mentioning the giant turtle in the epilogue. “How did it get so big?! Why is it there?! I love it,” screamed a bewildered fan. It’s the kind of random, hilarious detail that defines the show’s charm.

Final Verdict: Flawed but Fun

Gun X Sword isn’t perfect. Its pacing wobbles, some characters get shortchanged, and the plot leans into absurdity. But as one fan perfectly summarized, “It’s a mess, but it’s my mess.” The blend of revenge, humor, and heart makes it a cult favorite worth watching—especially if you’re in the mood for something unapologetically wild.

So, grab some popcorn, ignore the plot holes, and enjoy the ride. Just don’t ask too many questions about the turtle.