Saiyuki Gaiden

Saiyuki Gaiden is an intricately detailed, exciting anime that breathes fresh life into the mythology-based genre, the plot of which is based on the famed Chinese novel "Journey to the West". The show is a prequel to "Saiyuki", a popular franchise, both authored by Kazuya Minekura. Saiyuki Gaiden was produced by Ichijinsha in collaboration with the Saiyuki Production team in 2013.

The story of Saiyuki Gaiden takes us 500 years back in the Heavens, where a rebellion against the Gods' unbearable tyranny is smoldering just beneath the placid surface. The central characters of the story are General Kenren, a laid-back but formidable officer in the Heavenly Army, Marshal Tenpou, a highly intelligent and bookish sprite with a surprisingly fierce warrior spirit, and Prince Nataku, a child-warrior prodigy seemingly devoid of personal desires or ambition.

Contrary to the common depiction of the Heavens as a place of serenity and peace, the Heavens in Saiyuki Gaiden are rife with politics, power plays, rivalry, and plotted conspiracies. The celestial beings who reside here are not portrayed as typically virtuous or pure-hearted. Instead, they exhibit an array of human-like weaknesses and flaws, which makes them more relatable, despite their divine nature.

General Kenren, unlike his comrades, dares to voice his dismay at the suffocating, unjust rules imposed by the current management of Heaven. Marshal Tenpou, meanwhile, quietly supports Kenren's rebellion, although his rational mind occasionally demands a more cautious approach. The two quickly develop a deep bond of respect and trust, as they share a progressive vision of Heaven, one that values equality, justice, and humanity.

Prince Nataku, having been bred solely for combat, spends his life obeying orders without question, until he is befriended by Kenren and Tenpou. Despite his initial indifference and stoicism, their friendship gradually fills him with a sense of belonging and individuality, giving him the courage to question the established norms of the Heavens and take his first big step towards rebellion.

The story also introduces us to Goku, a heretic child who is born from the Earth itself. Despite being a creature of pure energy with a potential power that is feared and envied by many in the Heavens, Goku possesses a child's innocence, kindness, and a boundless desire for knowledge. He is adopted by Kenren, Tenpou, and Nataku, who treat him like a little brother and protect him from the many eyes in Heaven that view him as a threat.

The audience is given glimpses of Goku adjusting to his new existence, learning the ways of Heaven, forming relationships, and slowly discovering and exploring his immense power. His experiences and interactions with the Heavens, coupled with the values and ideals instilled in him by Kenren and Tenpou, shape Goku into an unconventional hero.

While the narrative is a fusion of grim political saga and warm-hearted friendship story, Saiyuki Gaiden particularly shines in the depth of its characters. All major characters are painted with such intricate details and layers that you cannot help but grow fond of them, even the ones on the darker shades of the character spectrum. The complexities of these characters are mirrored in the intricate detailing and gritty art style of the series.

The animation style remains true to Minekura's unique flair, with its trademark mix of tones, from dark to light, often highlighting the duality of Heaven. Equally captivating is the musical score, which oscillates between traditional Eastern tunes and more modern, intense pieces that underscore the series' pivotal moments.

With an enthralling narrative, compelling characters, and striking artwork, Saiyuki Gaiden paints an intriguing picture of a dysfunctional Heaven on the brink of upheaval. Its intricate portrayal of rebellious spirits caught in a struggle against a suffocating system is remarkably thought-provoking. The anime cleverly uses the mythology-based premise as a canvas to explore broader themes of morality, individuality, and the pursuit of justice in the face of despotism.

While it undoubtedly helps to have some familiarity with the original Saiyuki series, Saiyuki Gaiden is a standalone masterpiece that can be thoroughly enjoyed even by newcomers to the franchise. So, whether you're a die-hard Saiyuki fan or just a casual anime enthusiast looking for a captivating series to plunge yourself into, Saiyuki Gaiden is a must-watch.