The appeal and reviews of Final Fantasy: Unlimited

Final Fantasy: Unlimited - Adventure to another world and the charm of fantasy

Overview

"Final Fantasy: Unlimited" is a TV anime series based on Square's hugely popular RPG series "Final Fantasy." Broadcast on TV Tokyo from October 2, 2001 to March 26, 2002, this 25-episode series is based on the worldview of the game but develops a new story, bringing out the charm of fantasy to the fullest. Directed by Maeda Masahiro and produced by GONZO and Digimation, it was widely supported by fans of the original work as well as anime fans.

■ Story

Suddenly, an "other world" appears. In an attempt to solve this mystery, the Hayakawa couple, who are leading researchers of the other world, disappear, saying that they are "going to the other world." Their children, twin brother and sister Ai and Yu, decide to travel to the other world to search for their parents. The only thing that connects the other world to the Earth, known as the "outside world," is the mysterious "subway." Ai and Yu step into the other world with Lisa, whom they meet on the subway. The first person they meet in the other world is a man who calls himself "Kaze," who fires a "magic gun" to face off against a giant monster sent by the mysterious enemy "Count." Thus begins the adventure of Kaze and the twins.

■Explanation

"Final Fantasy: Unlimited" is based on the worldview of the RPG series, but by depicting new stories and characters, it allows us to rediscover the charm of fantasy. It is full of elements that fans will enjoy, such as the appearance of chocobos, summons, and airships that are familiar from the original game. In addition, the visual expression and powerful battle scenes that are unique to animation provide visual enjoyment. Director Maeda Masahiro has succeeded in drawing out the unique charm of anime while respecting the worldview of the game.

■Cast

The cast of this work is luxurious, and brings out the individuality of each character. Kaze and Pochepoke are played by Nobutoshi Kanna, the Demon Swordsman by Akira Ishida, Lisa Patsyfeast by Kyoko Hikami, Ai Hayakawa by Haruko Momoi, and Yu Hayakawa by Yuka Imai. In addition, Count Tyrant and Chobi are played by Akiko Yajima, Farbra and Crux by Kikuko Inoue, Cid by Toshihiko Seki, Helba by Kana Ueda, Pisto by Takehito Koyasu, Oscar by Koji Ishii, Fungus by Daisuke Gori, Joe Hayakawa and Bolbol-san by Takumi Yamazaki, Marie Hayakawa by Yuko Minaguchi, Chocobaba and Chocoimo by Rin Mizuhara, Meeles and Fango by Houko Kuwashima, and Lu Aura by Tomoe Hanba. These voice actors express the emotions and actions of the characters realistically, adding depth to the story.

■ Main staff

Many talented staff members were involved in the production of this work. The base concept planning was done by Akito Kawazu, the general director was Masahiro Maeda, the conductor was Yoshitomo Yonetani, the series composition was Atsuhiro Tomioka, the sound director was Yota Tsuruoka, the theme music was Nobuo Uematsu, the music was Shiro Hamaguchi and Akifumi Tada, the digital director was Tomohiro Hirata, the art director was Kazuto Park, the color design was Tomoko Kuroyanagi, the character design was Kazuto Nakazawa and Carmel7, the mechanical design was Makoto Kobayashi, the art setting was Naohiro Kawa and Masahiro Maeda, the 3D director was Yasufumi Soejima, the 2D directors were Kojiro Hayashi and Shuichi Binshi, the animation was done by GONZO, and the production was handled by TV Tokyo, Dentsu, and GONZO. These staff members worked together to create a work that is both visually and aurally excellent.

■ Main Characters

The main characters of this work are Kaze, Pochepoke, Magic Swordsman, Lisa Patzifest, Ai Hayakawa, Yu Hayakawa, Count Tyrant, Chobi, Fabra, Crux, Cid, Helba, Pisto, Oscar, Fungus, Joe Hayakawa, Bolbol-san, Marie Hayakawa, Chocobaba, Chocoimo, Miiresu, Fango, and Lu Aura. Each character has their own background and story, enriching the story. In particular, the growth and bond between Kaze and the twin siblings will move the viewers.

■Subtitle

The subtitles of each episode symbolize the development of the story and the growth of the characters. Starting with episode 1, "Another World - A Journey into Darkness," to episode 25, "Wind - When Life Shines," each episode depicts a different theme or episode. These subtitles help viewers to easily follow the flow of the story and gain a deeper understanding of the content of each episode.

■ Theme songs and music

The opening theme "Over the FANTASY" was written by Ebine Yuko, composed by Uematsu Nobuo, arranged by Ando Takahiro, and sung by Ueda Kana. The ending themes are "VIVID" (lyrics and composition: Gennozono Takashi, arrangement: FAIRY FORE & Akashi Masao, sung by FAIRY FORE), "Romancing Train" (lyrics: motsu, composition and arrangement: t-kimura, sung by move), and "Over the FANTASY" (lyrics: Ebine Yuko, composition: Uematsu Nobuo, arrangement: Ando Takahiro, sung by Ueda Kana). These songs enhance the atmosphere of the story and enhance the emotions of the viewer.

■ Evaluation and recommendation

"Final Fantasy: Unlimited" has been widely supported by fans of the original game as well as anime fans. The new story and characters, as well as the visual expression unique to animation, have given viewers fresh surprises and excitement. In particular, the adventures and growth of Kaze and the twin siblings have deeply touched viewers and enhanced the appeal of the story. In addition, this work, created by a stellar cast and staff, boasts excellent quality both visually and aurally.

The recommended points are that for fans of the original game, the appearance of familiar elements such as chocobos, summons, and airships will give a sense of nostalgia and freshness at the same time. For anime fans, the beautiful visuals, powerful battle scenes, and deep storyline are appealing. Furthermore, for fantasy fans, the new worldview of another world and the adventures of the characters will be enjoyable.

This work brings out the best in fantasy and will leave viewers impressed and surprised. Please give it a watch.