What is it: BlazBlue: Alter Memory
BlazBlue: Alter Memory is an anime series based on the popular fighting game franchise BlazBlue, developed by Arc System Works. The anime premiered in October 2013 and was produced by Hoods Entertainment in collaboration with TeamKG. The plot of BlazBlue: Alter Memory closely follows the events of BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger and BlazBlue: Continuum Shift, offering fans a faithful and thrilling adaptation of the complex and twist-filled plot. The story takes place in a world where magic and technology coexist, and follows 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 BlazBlue: Alter Memory universe, the plot revolves around a powerful artifact known as the Azure Grimoire, which grants its wielder extraordinary abilities. Ragna the Bloodedge, also known as the Dark Reaper, possesses an incomplete version of this artifact and is pursued 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 a diverse array of 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 interplay 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 design, which faithfully reflect the visuals of the games. 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 series' atmosphere, with music ranging from epic themes to darker, more introspective melodies. The combination of quality animation, character design, and immersive soundtrack makes BlazBlue: Alter Memory a memorable visual and auditory experience for both fans of the franchise and new viewers.
The BlazBlue: Alter Memory series consists of 12 episodes, each approximately 24 minutes long. Although the series has received mixed reviews, with some fans praising its faithfulness to the source material and others criticizing the condensing of the games' complex plot, it remains 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 nuance and detail 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 alternate 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 struggle 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 turns and mysteries. The presence of characters like Rachel Alucard, a time-manipulating vampire, and Hazama, an enigmatic villain with his own agenda, contributes to the plot's depth and unpredictability.
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 blends 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 a new medium, while new viewers can discover the fascinating world of BlazBlue. With its high-quality animation, engaging soundtrack, and complex storyline, BlazBlue: Alter Memory continues to be an important part of the BlazBlue franchise's legacy.
