Seisenshi Dunbine OVA [Episode 1]

Seisenshi Dunbine OVA Episode 1: A Nostalgic Return to Byston Well

If you’re a fan of classic mecha anime with a side of fantasy, Seisenshi Dunbine OVA Episode 1 is like stepping into a time capsule—one that’s been polished with a fresh coat of paint. Set 700 years after the original series, this OVA kicks off “The Tale of Neo Byston Well” with a mix of familiar faces (sort of) and new conflicts that’ll make old-school fans nod in recognition.

First off, let’s talk about the visuals. The animation upgrade from the 1980s TV series is noticeable—think smoother mecha battles and more vibrant landscapes of Byston Well. The Aura Battler designs, inspired by B-CLUB Magazine’s AURA FANTASM series, are a highlight. Shion Zaba’s mech, Silbine, has this sleek yet retro vibe that feels both nostalgic and new. And can we gush about the character designs? Shion, the reincarnation of Sho Zama, has that same determined glint in his eye, while Reml Jilfried (reincarnated Remile Luft) looks like she stepped right out of a fantasy novel—pointy ears and all.

But let’s get real: the pacing is a bit slow for a 3-episode OVA. The first episode spends a lot of time setting up the world of Neo Byston Well, introducing factions like the Dragon Fang and the Holy Axis. For new viewers, this might feel like a lot to take in, but long-time fans will appreciate the deep dive into the political intrigue that made the original so gripping. The opening scene, with Shion discovering his connection to Sho Zama, is a nice callback—though some fans on MyAnimeList noted it could’ve been tighter.

The mecha battles? They’re solid. The fight between Silbine and a rival Aura Battler is choreographed with enough flair to keep you engaged, even if it’s not as flashy as modern mecha anime. The sound design here is a win too—those clanking metal sounds and the hum of Aura energy take you right back to the 80s, but with better audio quality.

Now, let’s chat about the story. The OVA doesn’t waste time throwing Shion into the thick of things. He’s thrust into a conflict between factions vying for control of Neo Byston Well, and his journey to embrace his destiny as Sho’s reincarnation feels earned. The political intrigue is layered—there’s a lot of backstabbing and secret alliances that’ll keep you guessing. However, some fans mentioned that the first episode relies a bit too much on exposition. For example, the scene where Shion learns about the Dragon Fang’s plans could’ve been more show, less tell.

Character-wise, Shion is a likable protagonist. He’s not just a carbon copy of Sho; he has his own doubts and motivations. Reml, on the other hand, is a scene-stealer. Her dry wit and no-nonsense attitude balance out Shion’s idealism, and their banter is one of the episode’s highlights. The supporting cast, like Silkie Mau, adds depth to the world—though some characters feel underdeveloped so far.

One thing that stands out is the music. The OVA uses a mix of orchestral and synth tracks that fit the fantasy-mecha vibe perfectly. The opening theme, with its epic chorus, will have you humming along by the end of the episode. And the background score during the mecha battles? It’s the kind of music that makes you lean forward in your seat.

For fans of the original Seisenshi Dunbine, this OVA is a love letter. The callbacks to the TV series—like the mention of the “Aura Road” and the return of familiar mecha designs—are sure to spark nostalgia. But does it stand on its own? Kinda. New viewers might struggle with the lore dump, but if you stick with it, the world of Neo Byston Well is fascinating enough to draw you in.

Criticisms? The pacing, as mentioned, is slow. Some fans on MyAnimeList wished the first episode had more action and less setup. Also, the villain, Lord Haizen, feels a bit one-note so far—we know he’s evil, but we don’t get much depth beyond that. But hey, it’s only the first episode; there’s time to flesh him out.

Overall, Seisenshi Dunbine OVA Episode 1 is a solid start. It’s not perfect, but it’s packed with enough nostalgia, mecha action, and political intrigue to keep you hooked. If you’re a fan of classic anime or just love a good fantasy-mecha mix, this is worth checking out. Just be prepared to invest a little time into the world-building—you won’t regret it.

Final Verdict: 7/10. A nostalgic trip with enough new elements to keep it fresh. Perfect for old fans, but newbies might need a quick recap of the original series first.

P.S. Keep an eye out for the end credits scene—it hints at a bigger threat coming Shion’s way. Let’s hope Episode 2 ramps up the tension!