Vash is back with a bang in Trigun Stampede. The original Trigun (1998) is a Western anime classic, among the best anime of that era. The single-season anime run that consisted of 26 episodes packed so much power, emotion and thought built on deep world-building with glimpses of psychological horror. So, when fans of the famous anime were greeted in 2023 with a remake, or better, a re-imagining of the original story of Vash, the Stampede it was a cause for celebration.
The end product, we are glad to say, is remarkable, especially in a visual sense. Whilst short in length (12 episodes) the anime packs a lot of action and intrigue, while staying faithful to the core story. It also differs in significant ways. In this two-part review, we will analyze Trigun Stampede, the story of the outlaw with a $60 billion bounty.
Trigun Stampede – Different and Similar
The first thing that stands out about Trigun Stampede in contrast to the original is that the producers do not shy away from the Sci-Fi elements of the story. It is interesting when you consider how the original anime slowly worked its way through the plot until it got to a stage where the science fiction aspects were just too strong to deny. Things are different this time around, and in a way, it is a welcome change.
Events kick off on a fleet of spaceships that are threatened with a great emergency. Catastrophe is in the making as the crew struggles desperately to escape the failing ship. At this point, we are introduced to the protagonist Vash and later, his antagonist, and twin brother, Knives. This introduction sets a different tone to the original Trigun. One that is going to embrace the science fiction aspect and seek to weave the story into this world.
Faster Character Introduction and Story Buildup
The original Trigun was a slow burner. Takes its time in introducing and building characters, working its way through the complex plot involving Vash’s mysterious past and the oncoming conflict with Millions Knives. This time around the writers waste no time in throwing us right into the action with little stopping in between. From the confrontation with the Hard Punch Nebraskas, to the rapid introduction of Knives into the main story.
This is where the remake or reimagining of Vash the Stampede somewhat falters. Since the writers have limited time in terms of episodes to work with, they most likely felt compelled to get the main story elements of the conflict with Knives underway quickly. Almost too quickly. However, credit to the developers at the Tokyo-based, Orange Animation to put together a visual spectacle. One area where Trigun Stampede truly shines is in the effects department.
Trigun Stampede – A Visual Triumph
If there are any qualms about the production quality of Trigun Stampede (2023), they will be laid to rest in the first few minutes of the show. The sheer level of detail in the visual effects is among the best I have seen. Period. Combined with unique lighting effects that seem to blend 3-D with 2-D worlds, you have a spectacle on your hands.
Though Trigun Stampede does not feature the level of depth in terms of plot (a point we shall revisit in part two) as the original, it does make up for it with some great action, powerful character moments and an ever-likeable protagonist. So, if you are an anime fan, give Trigun Stampede a try. You will not be disappointed as this anime is among the best to release in 2023.
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