Time Bokan Series: Yattodetaman [Season 1 Episodes 1-52]

Alright, let’s dive into Time Bokan Series: Yattodetaman—the fifth installment in Tatsunoko Production’s iconic Time Bokan franchise, which ran from February 1981 to February 1982 for 52 episodes. Directed by Hiroshi Sasagawa, this series blends slapstick comedy, time-travel chaos, and royal intrigue, and while it’s a blast from the past, its legacy still pops up in modern anime references. Let’s break down what makes it tick, especially for younger viewers curious about classic anime!

First Impressions: What’s the Vibe?

Yattodetaman is pure 80s anime fun—think vibrant colors, over-the-top characters, and mecha battles that don’t take themselves too seriously. The story is set in the Kingdom of Firantic, where two royal houses clash to rule, while detectives Paul Tuck and Tracy Headly bumble through cases. It’s silly, chaotic, and unapologetically retro—the kind of show where you’ll laugh at the absurdity one minute and go “wait, what just happened?” the next.

The Good: Why Fans Love It

For those who grew up with it, Yattodetaman is a nostalgia trip. Fans praise its whimsical humor—like the whispering reporter and his unseen cameraman (a running gag that even gets referenced in modern shows like Yoru no Yatterman!). The mecha designs are creative (sumo mechs, anyone?), and the dynamic between the heroes and villains feels like a cartoonish game of cat-and-mouse.

One fan noted, “The rigged tournament with Genghiskhan beating everyone was so fun!” Another loved the show’s ability to balance “slapstick comedy with touching moments”—though, let’s be real, the “touching” parts are often overshadowed by someone peeing on a snowman (yes, that happens).

The Not-So-Good: For Newer Viewers

If you’re under 20, Yattodetaman might feel very dated. The jokes rely heavily on 80s pop culture and Japanese wordplay—like sumo references that go over most heads. One modern viewer complained, “Half the episode was wasted on sumo jokes I didn’t get!” The animation style is also simpler than today’s shows, and the plot can feel repetitive (how many times can a royal tournament go wrong?).

Plus, the tone is all over the place. Is it a kids’ show? An adult comedy? A drama? It’s like the writers couldn’t decide—kind of like “the Fractale of children’s cartoons,” as one reviewer put it. The flashbacks are repetitive, and some gags (looking at you, the whispering reporter) can get annoying fast.

Who Should Watch It?

Yattodetaman is definitely for retro anime fans or anyone who loves classic slapstick. If you enjoyed shows like Scooby-Doo or Wacky Races, you’ll vibe with its energy. But if you’re used to tight, serialized plots (think Attack on Titan or Demon Slayer), this might feel too random.

A fan summed it up: “This is made for early Yatterman watchers. If you don’t get the references, half the fun is lost.” That said, it’s still worth checking out for its historical value—Tatsunoko Production is a legend, and this show paved the way for future mecha comedies.

Final Thoughts

Yattodetaman isn’t a masterpiece, but it’s a fun time capsule. It’s silly, chaotic, and full of heart—even if that heart is buried under a pile of 80s cheese. If you’re curious about where modern anime tropes came from, give it a shot. Just don’t expect a deep story or mind-blowing animation.

As one fan put it, “It’s a damn random episode, but overall nice.” And honestly? Sometimes “random and nice” is exactly what you need.

Rating: 6/10—great for nostalgia, but proceed with 80s anime expectations!

Note: Most of this is based on fan discussions from MyAnimeList, where viewers debated everything from sumo jokes to the show’s identity crisis. If you’re brave enough, check out a few episodes—just don’t say I didn’t warn you about the peeing kid. 😂