Shinsei Galverse Episode 1: A Fan-Driven Sci-Fi Throwback That Hits All the Right Notes

Shinsei Galverse isn’t your average anime—and that’s exactly why it’s already blowing up among Gen Z viewers. Born from a Tokyo-based NFT project by creator Ayaka Ohira, this fan-funded series let the community weigh in on everything from character designs to story beats before it even premiered. Episode 1, which dropped on June 25, 2025, feels like a love letter to both classic 90s sci-fi and the fans who helped bring it to life. If you’re into gritty space wars, mysterious amnesiac protagonists, and nostalgia that doesn’t feel forced, this one’s for you.

Let’s dive into the episode: We open with Zero, a girl with no memory of her past, crash-landing on Amatera—a desolate planet torn apart by the ruthless Gevuran invaders. She’s found by Ring, the sharp-tongued leader of the local resistance, who’s got zero time for strangers… until she sees something in Zero that makes her take a chance. The pair team up to survive, and we get our first taste of the show’s world-building: Amatera’s ruins are hauntingly beautiful, the Gevurans’ tech looks like a 90s mecha fan’s dream, and the resistance’s base feels like a cozy (if chaotic) home for misfits.

The animation style is where Shinsei Galverse really shines. It’s a perfect blend of 90s nostalgia and modern polish: bold character outlines, vibrant color pops during action scenes, and that classic hand-drawn feel that makes you think of old-school hits like Escaflowne or Cowboy Bebop. Fans on MyAnimeList are already raving about how the visuals “hit different”—no over-the-top CGI here, just smooth, dynamic movement that keeps you glued to the screen. And let’s talk about the sound: The opening theme, “Fall Mouth So Far” by ermhoi, is a synth-heavy bop that sets the sci-fi mood perfectly (you’ll be humming it for days). The ending, “KYOMEI VERSE” by Taku Takahashi and KAMIYA, slows things down with a soulful tune that ties into Zero’s search for her identity—total vibe shift, but in the best way.

Characters are another win for Episode 1. Zero’s amnesia makes her relatable; she’s just trying to figure out who she is while dodging laser blasts and learning to trust Ring. Ai Fairouz (voice of Zero) does an amazing job of balancing confusion with quiet strength—you can feel her determination even when she’s lost. Ring, voiced by Yui Horie, is the tough leader we all need: she’s got a sharp wit, a soft spot for her team, and a backstory that hints at deeper pain (we need more of that in future episodes). Fans are already gushing about their dynamic on social media—will they become friends? Rivals? Who knows, but their chemistry is fire.

What makes Shinsei Galverse stand out is its community roots. This isn’t a show made by executives in a boardroom—it’s a project where fans got to vote on things like Zero’s hair color and Ring’s weapon of choice. That’s why Episode 1 feels so personal: every detail, from the resistance’s graffiti-covered walls to the Gevurans’ design, has a piece of the community in it. On MAL’s discussion thread, fans are talking about how “surreal” it is to see their ideas on screen—one user even mentioned that their suggestion for a resistance symbol made it into the episode! It’s like we’re all part of the story, and that’s a feeling you don’t get from most anime.

Of course, no episode is perfect. Some fans are saying the pacing feels a bit fast (we get thrown into the war without much setup), but that’s part of the charm—Shinsei Galverse doesn’t waste time on exposition. It trusts viewers to keep up, which is refreshing. Others are curious about Zero’s past: who is she? Why did she crash on Amatera? The mystery is already hooky, and we can’t wait to see where it goes.

Overall, Shinsei Galverse Episode 1 is a solid start to a series that’s already making waves. It’s got action, heart, and a nostalgic vibe that will appeal to both old-school anime fans and Gen Z viewers. If you’re into sci-fi, strong female leads, or just want to watch a show that feels like it was made for you, this is a must-see. Grab your snacks, turn up the volume, and get ready to join the resistance—Shinsei Galverse is here to stay.

Rating: 8/10 (because we need more Ring backstory, duh)
Who should watch it? Sci-fi lovers, 90s anime fans, and anyone who likes stories with heart.
P.S. If you’re on MAL, go join the discussion—your take might just shape the next episode!
P.P.S. The 1080p WEB-DL quality is chef’s kiss—no blurry scenes here. Perfect for binge-watching.

This review is based on Episode 1 of Shinsei Galverse (2025), directed by Ayaka Ohira. All opinions are our own, but we totally stole some fan takes from MAL—don’t tell anyone. 😉