What is it: Drifters
Drifters is a manga and anime series that mixes elements of fantasy, action and history, created by Kouta Hirano, the same author of Hellsing. The plot revolves around historical figures who are transported to a parallel world, where they are forced to fight in an epic war. This alternate universe is inhabited by elves, dwarves and other fantastic creatures, and historical characters, known as “Drifters”, are recruited to fight a group of antagonists called “Ends”. The series is known for its complex plot, intense battle scenes, and unique mix of historical characters from different eras and cultures. The manga was first published in 2009 and received an anime adaptation in 2016, which was well received by both audiences and critics.
The Drifters are real historical characters who were transported to this parallel world at the time of their deaths. Among the main characters are figures such as Shimazu Toyohisa, a samurai from the Sengoku period; Oda Nobunaga, one of Japan's most famous daimyo; and Nasu no Yoichi, a legendary archer from the Heian period. Each Drifter brings with them their skills and historical knowledge, which are used in the war against the Ends. The Ends, on the other hand, are historical figures who, unlike the Drifters, have a desire for destruction and domination. They are led by figures such as Jeanne d'Arc and Anastasia Romanova, who have been corrupted by their sufferings in their past lives. The dynamic between Drifters and Ends creates a war scenario where military tactics and individual skills are constantly put to the test.
The world of Drifters is richly detailed, with a diverse geography that includes dense forests, towering mountains, and fortified cities. This scenario serves as the stage for the epic battles between the Drifters and the Enders. In addition to humans, the world is inhabited by several fantastic races, such as elves, dwarves and hobbits, each with their own unique cultures and abilities. Elves, for example, are master archers and live in harmony with nature, while dwarves are known for their skills in forging weapons and armor. The interaction between these races and the Drifters adds an extra layer of complexity to the plot, creating alliances and conflicts that enrich the narrative.
The series also explores deep themes such as the morality of war, the nature of power, and redemption. Drifters, despite their skills and knowledge, are often faced with moral and ethical dilemmas. For example, Oda Nobunaga, known for his cruelty and ambition, must learn to work as a team and consider the consequences of his actions in a world that is not his own. Likewise, the Ends, despite being the antagonists, are presented in a complex way, with motivations that go beyond the simple desire for destruction. Jeanne d'Arc, for example, is portrayed as a tragic figure, corrupted by the suffering she faced in her past life. These elements make Drifters a series that not only entertains, but also makes the audience reflect on deeper issues.
The art of Drifters is another aspect that deserves to be highlighted. Kouta Hirano is known for his detailed and dynamic style, which brings battle scenes and characters to life. The manga is full of detailed panels that capture the intensity of the fights and the expressiveness of the characters. The anime adaptation managed to maintain this quality, with fluid animations and sound design that complements the on-screen action. The soundtrack, composed by Yasushi Ishii and Hayato Matsuo, also deserves mention, as it adds an extra layer of emotion to the scenes, ranging from epic songs to more melancholic themes.
In terms of reception, Drifters was well received both in Japan and internationally. The manga won several awards and the anime adaptation was praised for its fidelity to the source material and the quality of its production. The series has also generated a dedicated fan base who appreciate the unique blend of history, fantasy, and action. Furthermore, Drifters has been the subject of several academic analyses, which explore its themes and characters in depth. The series continues to be popular, with new chapters of the manga being released regularly and rumors of a possible second season of the anime.
