As this fantasy series begins a portal, dubbed 'The Gate', to another dimension opens in the middle of modern day Tokyo; an invasion force of mythical beings and monsters comes though
and is promptly defeated by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and its modern equipment. Japanese forces then go through the gate and establish a base on the other side in the so-called 'Special Region'. Some of the locals fight back but they are swiftly defeated. Protagonist Youji Itami is soldier who just happens to be a bit of an otaku, he leads attempts to befriend the local population and quickly establishes a harem of female fighters that includes a demigod and a couple of elves. As time passes the Japanese get more involved with the local people's problems such as dealing with a menacing dragon and ultimately taking sides in a local war against the megalomaniac who has taken over the empire that ruled the area before the JSDF arrived and still controls much of the territory beyond the gate.
This is an enjoyable action/fantasy anime; the way it combines traditional fantasy elements with modern military equipment was rather fun. Some people have said that it is far too nationalistic but to be honest I couldn't see that; it is certainly no more so than many Hollywood action films. The characters are well designed and likable where we are meant to like them. Youji is a good protagonist and the girls he acquires are fun without being mere cyphers. They are each distinctive, strong in their own right and bring something to the story. There are plenty of secondary characters but not so many that the viewer gets confused. The animation is of a high standard and the action is exciting. Overall I'd recommend this to those looking for an action anime with a fantasy setting.
These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.
This is an enjoyable action/fantasy anime; the way it combines traditional fantasy elements with modern military equipment was rather fun. Some people have said that it is far too nationalistic but to be honest I couldn't see that; it is certainly no more so than many Hollywood action films. The characters are well designed and likable where we are meant to like them. Youji is a good protagonist and the girls he acquires are fun without being mere cyphers. They are each distinctive, strong in their own right and bring something to the story. There are plenty of secondary characters but not so many that the viewer gets confused. The animation is of a high standard and the action is exciting. Overall I'd recommend this to those looking for an action anime with a fantasy setting.
These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.