What is it: BlazBlue: Alter Memory
BlazBlue: Alter Memory is an anime series based on the popular BlazBlue fighting game franchise, developed by Arc System Works. The anime premiered in October 2013 and was produced by studio Hoods Entertainment in collaboration with studio TeamKG. The plot of BlazBlue: Alter Memory closely follows the events of the games BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger and BlazBlue: Continuum Shift, offering fans a faithful and exciting adaptation of the complex plot full of twists and turns. The story takes place in a world where magic and technology coexist, and follows the protagonist Ragna the Bloodedge in his fight against the powerful organization NOL (Novus Orbis Librarium). The series is known for its intricate narrative, charismatic characters and intense action scenes, which capture the essence of the original games.
In the universe of BlazBlue: Alter Memory, the plot revolves around a powerful artifact known as the Azure Grimoire, which grants extraordinary abilities to its bearer. Ragna the Bloodedge, also known as the Black Reaper, possesses an incomplete version of this artifact and is persecuted by the NOL due to his threat to the established regime. The series explores themes of destiny, sacrifice and the struggle for power, as Ragna allies with diverse characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. Among Ragna's allies are Jin Kisaragi, his younger brother and one of the main antagonists, and Noel Vermillion, an NOL soldier with a mysterious past. The interaction between these characters and their interconnected stories is one of the series' strengths.
BlazBlue: Alter Memory also stands out for its high-quality animation and detailed character designs, which faithfully reflect the games' visuals. Combat scenes are precisely choreographed, capturing the intensity and fluidity of fighting game battles. Furthermore, the anime's soundtrack, composed by Daisuke Ishiwatari, the creator of the BlazBlue series, perfectly complements the atmosphere of the series, with music that ranges from epic themes to darker and more introspective melodies. The combination of quality animation, character design and immersive soundtrack makes BlazBlue: Alter Memory a memorable visual and auditory experience for fans of the franchise and new viewers alike.
The BlazBlue: Alter Memory series is made up of 12 episodes, each approximately 24 minutes long. Although the series has received mixed reviews, with some fans praising its fidelity to the source material and others criticizing the condensing of the games' complex plot, it continues to be an important part of the BlazBlue universe. For those unfamiliar with the games, the anime can serve as an introduction to the franchise's rich lore and multifaceted characters. However, fans of the games may appreciate the additional nuances and details that the anime series offers, further deepening their understanding of the plot and character motivations.
BlazBlue: Alter Memory also addresses the issue of multiple timelines and alternative realities, a recurring theme in the BlazBlue franchise. The series explores how characters' actions in different timelines affect the course of events and how they fight to alter their fate. This science fiction element adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative, making it even more engaging for viewers who enjoy stories with twists and mysteries. The presence of characters like Rachel Alucard, a vampire who manipulates time, and Hazama, an enigmatic villain with his own agenda, contributes to the depth and unpredictability of the plot.
In short, BlazBlue: Alter Memory is an anime adaptation that captures the essence of the BlazBlue fighting games, offering a rich narrative and captivating characters. The series is a mix of action, drama and science fiction elements, which together create a unique entertainment experience. For fans of the franchise, BlazBlue: Alter Memory is an opportunity to see their favorite characters come to life in new media, while new viewers can discover the fascinating world of BlazBlue. With its high-quality animation, immersive soundtrack, and complex storyline, BlazBlue: Alter Memory continues to be an important part of the legacy of the BlazBlue franchise.
