The Other Side of Deep Space [Season 1 Episode 1]

The Other Side of Deep Space: Episode 1 Blasts Off with Ambition, But Leaves Fans Craving More

Let’s cut to the chase: The Other Side of Deep Space’s first episode is like a rocket with a powerful engine but no clear flight plan—exciting to watch, but you’re left wondering where it’s headed. Produced by Motion Magic and dropping in 2026, this 15-minute sci-fi romp on Bilibili throws us straight into the chaos of Wang Xuan, a protagonist ready to “delve deeply into the cosmos” to stop an “impending massive calamity.” But after that opening hook? The episode feels like it’s still warming up its thrusters.

First, the vibes: the animation is crisp, with neon-drenched space stations and sleek starships that pop—exactly what you’d expect from a studio that’s clearly got a budget for eye candy. But let’s talk about the story, or lack thereof. The first 15 minutes are mostly setup: Wang Xuan gets a mysterious message, stares at a glowing space map, and has a quick chat with a side character who warns him about “the crisis.” That’s it. No action, no big reveals, just… setup. And for a show that’s only 15 minutes long? That’s a risky move.

Now, let’s get real—this is where the fan chatter comes in. Over on MyAnimeList, the biggest debate right now is whether Deep Space should lean into an ongoing plot or go episodic. And honestly? The first episode doesn’t give us enough to tell. But here’s what fans are saying: Most of us (let’s be real, millennials and Gen Z anime fans) grew up on plot-driven bangers like Fullmetal Alchemist or Attack on Titan. We want stakes that build, characters that grow, and a reason to hit “next episode” immediately. As one user put it, “Without a plot, what’s the point? It’s like wasting time if there’s no real purpose.”

But wait—there’s a flip side. Some fans are defending the slow burn. “15 minutes is short,” another user argued. “They need time to set up the world before blowing stuff up.” Fair, but here’s the thing: Deep Space is competing with shows like Spy x Family or Chainsaw Man that hook you in the first 5 minutes. If you’re gonna take your time, you need to make that time count. And right now? The first episode feels like it’s treading water.

Let’s talk about Wang Xuan, too. He’s got the classic “reluctant hero” vibe—brooding, has a secret past, cares about saving the world. But we don’t get to see any of that personality shine. He’s just… there. Staring at screens. Saying lines like, “I have to go into space.” Where’s the fire? Where’s the moment that makes us think, “This guy is gonna be awesome”?

But hey, it’s not all bad. The ending tease—Wang Xuan boarding a ship, the camera panning to a distant, glowing planet—gives me hope. And let’s be honest: 15-minute episodes are perfect for binge-watching. If the next episode delivers on the action (and finally tells us what this “calamity” actually is), Deep Space could turn into a sleeper hit.

Here’s the tea: The first episode is a mixed bag. It’s got the visuals, it’s got the potential, but it’s missing the heart. If you’re into slow-burn sci-fi, you might stick around. But if you’re like me—someone who needs a hook in the first 10 minutes—you might be reaching for your phone halfway through.

Final verdict? I’m gonna give it three more episodes. Why? Because space anime is my weakness, and Motion Magic has a track record of turning slow starts into epic rides (lookin’ at you, Starship Troopers: Traitor of Mars). But if episode 2 doesn’t give us a fight scene, a plot twist, or even just a hint of Wang Xuan’s personality? I’m out.

At the end of the day, The Other Side of Deep Space is like a new video game with amazing graphics but no tutorial—you know it’s gonna be fun, but you have no idea how to play. Let’s hope the next level (episode) gives us the cheat code we need.

Rating: 6/10 — Potential is there, but it’s gotta step up its plot game.

P.S. If you’re watching this for the English subs? They’re solid. No wonky translations here. Small wins, right?