Taking place in the past it offers a view at the Saiyuuki quartet before their formation and their journey to the west. First OVA starts with Sanzo and his master, also with Ukoku (known as a later Ni Jianyi). Second OVA shows first meeting of Goku and Sanzo. Third OVA considers the events after Hakkai's sins and his trial (that we know from first season of "Saiyuuki") and his decision to live in Gojyo's house.
Review by: The Anime Critic
Synopsis
In the fantastical realm of Saiyuuki Reload: Burial, our favorite foursome of heroes – The Sanzo Party (consisting of Genjo Sanzo, Goku, Gojyo and Hakkai) return! However, this captivating anime doesn’t play out where the previous franchise left us. Instead, it takes us on a journey back in time, revealing the painful past and intricate relationships of the beloved characters, giving the audience insight into their motivations and character development.
The tale revolves around three individual arches, each focusing on our heroes – Sanzo, Goku and Gojyo & Hakkai – before they banded together. It explores how they faced darkness and despair in their pasts, how they overcame it, and the series of events that ultimately leads them to form the formidable Sanzo party. It is a narrative that acts as a prequel to the main story, adding depth and emotional layers to your favorite characters.
Storyline & Character Development
The storyline that Saiyuuki Reload: Burial aims to strategically weave is excellent. The way the anime carefully builds up and reveals the backstory of each character is commendable. The narrative is interlaced with the right amount of drama, comedy and action, making every episode enjoyable and leaving viewers on their toes.
The character development is also exceptional. The anime takes us deep into each character’s past, exploring how their troublesome histories have shaped them into resilient and complex individuals. The animation expertly weaves their traumatic experiences, humanizing them and giving them more depth than the previous portrayals.
Art & Animation
Saiyuuki Reload: Burial consistently maintains top-notch animation quality. The setting and character designs have a distinct aesthetic feel that sets it apart. Each scene is intricately detailed, and the use of colors is exceptional, making for a visually pleasing experience.
What makes Saiyuuki Reload: Burial stand out is not just its vibrant and detailed art but also its consistency in action scenes. The attention to detail is commendable, making the battles feel weighty and impactful. Whether it’s quick hand-to-hand bouts or full-scale skirmishes, the animators deliver with every scene.
Sound & Voice Acting
An anime’s soundtrack can make or break the experience. Fortunately, Saiyuuki Reload: Burial delivers a perfect score that complements the intense and emotional moments whilst also supporting the lighter, more comic scenes. The background music is excellently composed, immersing viewers into the world of Saiyuuki.
The voice-acting performances are top-tier, hitting all the right notes to express a whole spectrum of emotions that the characters experience. The seiyuus (voice actors) manage to capture despair, hope, determination and humor perfectly, bringing the characters to life.
Should You Rent, Buy or Stream?
As an anime that offers a compelling story, stunning visuals and an immersive experience, Saiyuuki Reload: Burial is worth more than just a single watch. If you’re a fan of well-rounded shows that can make you laugh, cry, and sit at the edge of your seat, you shouldn’t just rent or stream, but consider adding this anime to your personal collection.
Final Verdict
Overall, Saiyuuki Reload: Burial is a poignant story of resilience and friendship, pulling viewers in with the unfolding mysteries of our favourite characters’ dark pasts. It offers a blend of comedy and tragedy, wrapped in sublime art and an unforgettable soundtrack. It’s a must-watch for any anime lover seeking a rich story with emotional depth and unforgettable characters.
Score: 4.5/5
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