Story - 8
Like all Gundam series i have watched, most explore a lot of themes ranging from environmental issues to human rights. Usually, the protagonist gets to wield some epic gundam of some sorts and the plot takes of from there. Gundam Unicorn is no exception, but you really can't blame the series, since most mecha animes are like that. However this is no reason to skip the series since, the premise shows some real promise, albeit slightly cliche (at the moment of writing this). Since, only one episode has been released, my rating of 8 is rather an estimation of things to come (and also looking back at the prequels which had a solid plot), and right now I'm certainly looking forward to what happens next.
Animation - over 9000?
Yes, the quality IS over 9000. There is really no words to describe the quality of the animation. Every mecha ranging from the classic zaku's to the epic gundam's are detailed to perfection, and their designs are magnificent. Action scenes are plentiful and the quality is very smooth and a joy to gawk at.Camera angles are dynamic, and are always varied especially the action sequences.
Merit should be given to the studio for portraying the characters in a "old school" way, similar to that of Chars Counter Attack albeit more detailed. Shading in every scene is detailed nicely and the backdrops are very nice. For an OVA series that is going to take three years to finish, you would expect nothing less.
Sound - 8
I'm no expert at sound or voice acting besides the fact that if they don't sound annoying then its good. Well I can't really judge the VA's, but from my "expertise" they seem all fine and don't sound forced at all. Scripting for the OVA is good and matches the atmosphere and universe well.
As for background music, i didn't really notice it since i couldn't pick much from the background scores. Usually, music is an integral part of movies, shows and games as it adds to the experience and helps the audience immerse themselves. Since i couldn't really hear anything defining, then i can only say that the soundtrack seems "meh". (as of the first episode anyways)
That's not to say however that the sound is average in this series; the sound effects ranging from explosions to that familiar whoosh are all executed perfectly and are believable.
What I'm really exited about however, is the DVD/bluray release of the first OVA which will contain (from what i hear anyways) English audio and subs from 5 different languages. Because the cast is very diverse I'm very interested to how the OVA will execute the voice acting.
After watching the first episode I was really dumbfounded by the pure epicness of the episode. From every aspect, the OVA has done significantly well and from my personal predictions, it will only get better. Whilst the series will take three years to finish, I am certainly willing to wait because the series has so much to offer. This is truly a top notch anime that fans and non fans alike will enjoy though the wait till the next episode will anal anyone.
NOTE - I will be updating this as the newer episodes gets released and when i get my hands on the DVD/Bluray release. oh and get this in HD since only the animation can truly be appreciated there.
