Bubblegum Crisis Tokyo 2040
Synopsis
In the wake of an earthquake that devastated most of the city, Tokyo has been rebuilt in record time due to the development of humanoid robots known as boomers. After the disaster, these machines now service the city as cheap labor. Genom Corporation is the mastermind behind the boomers, having become so rich and powerful that they have extended its influence into space. However, all is not well with the boomers. Random breakdowns in their neural structure are causing some of them to go berserk, destroying property and killing humans in violent rampages. To combat this, Tokyo has formed the Advanced Police, a peacekeeping force with jurisdiction over boomer matters. There are also rumors of a second group known as the Knight Sabers, a vigilante unit operating from the shadows. Trying to investigate the Knight Sabers, the adventurous Linna Yamazaki travels to Tokyo in pursuit of her heroes. There, she finds the enigmatic singer Priscilla Asagiri, the beautiful entrepreneur Sylia Stingray, and the exuberant Nene Romanova, each with their own reasons for coming together. As the struggle intensifies, the girls learn that the boomer problem might delve deeper than any of them could ever imagine. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Bubblegum Crisis Tokyo 2040 is generally viewed as a decent remake that expands upon the original OVA with improved character development and a more complete story. However, some feel the philosophical elements in the later episodes are not well-executed and that the plot falters towards the end. The series is appreciated for its action and cyberpunk themes, but some find the animation and music to be dated.
Strengths
- Strong character development compared to the original OVA, with each character having distinct traits and growth.
- Complete story with a beginning and end, unlike the original which was more episodic.
- Expands on the backstory of Sylia and the origins of the Knight Sabers, providing more depth.
- Music is well-integrated and enhances the scenes, with a mix of rock and techno.
- Boomer designs are creative and varied, ranging from mundane to monstrous.
Weaknesses
- The last story arc delves into philosophical themes that are not fully realized, potentially derailing the plot.
- Other Knight Sabers besides Sylia are underdeveloped.
- Animation shortcuts are apparent.
- The quality of plotting in the final episodes is lacking, relying on deus ex machina.
- Music and sound haven't aged well and can feel repetitive.