The appeal and reviews of "Dancouga Nova": A story of new warriors

A comprehensive review and recommendation of Juusou Kikou Dancouga Nova

■ Public Media

TV anime series

■ Original Media

Anime Original

■ Broadcast period

February 15, 2007 - May 10, 2007 Animax February 15, 2007 - May 10, 2007 (Episodes 1-12) Every Thursday 22:30 - 23:00

■Broadcasting station

Animax

■Frequencies

half an hour

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 12

■Original Story

Shinobu Fujiwara

■ Director

Masami Ohbari

■ Production

Animation Production: Ashi Productions Production Cooperation: Animax Broadcast Japan Production: "Dancouga Nova" Production Committee (Paradise Resort, Sega, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Ashi Productions)

■Works

©Shinobu Fujiwara/Dancouga Nova Production Committee

■ Story

In the 22nd century, the Earth did not experience a large-scale world war, but local wars broke out all over the place. At that time, a giant robot appeared that sided with the weaker side in the local wars. Its name was "Dancouga"... People even called it a god. However, even the four men and women who piloted it did not know the true meaning of its existence. Can "Dancouga" save the Earth? ...The prelude to a fierce battle now rings out.

■Cast

・Aoi Hidaka / Haruna Ikezawa・Kurara Tachibana / Houko Kuwashima・Sakuya Kamon / Tatsuhisa Suzuki・Johnny Burnett / Yuki Yasu・Aida / Yuko Goto・Commander Tanaka / Keiji Fujiwara・Isabelle Cronkite / Michiko Neya・Saimi / Sayaka Ohara・Luu Liluli / Saori Goto・FS / Kazuki Yao・Vladimir / Yuriko Yamamoto・WILL / Norio Wakamoto

■ Main staff

・Original story by Shinobu Fujiwara ・Planning by Toshihiko Sato, Kazuhiko Mori, Masao Takiyama ・Director by Masami Obari ・Story construction by Takeshi Shuto and Hideki Mitsui ・Character design by KAZZ
Dancouga concept design: Katsuji Murakami; mechanic design: Masami Obari, Koji Nakakita; art director: Geki Katsumata; sound director: Miwa Iwanami; sound studio: Jinnan Studio; cinematography: Yoshiaki Okuma; color design: Yuki Umeda; opening animation storyboard; direction: Masami Obari; opening animation key animation: Risa Ebata, Fujio Suzuki, Kenichi Hamasaki, Norihito Ogomori, Hiroshi Arisawa, Kyota Washikita, Yuichi Nakazawa, Katsuyuki Tamura, Sono Kato, Hiroki Mutaguchi, Masami Obari; ending animation: Takehiro Miura; producers: Sakurako Murata, Katsunori Naruke, Mutsumi Kamon, Shinji Senoo; associative producer: Daisuke Goto; production producer: Atsushi Murata; animation production: Ashi Productions; production cooperation: Animax Broadcast Japan; production: "Dancouga Nova" Production Committee (Paradise Resort, Sega, Sony Pictures) Entertainment, Ashi Productions)

■ Main Characters

・Aoi Hidaka
Dancouga Nova's main pilot. She was in the female F1 racer class and also worked as a model on the side. Having reached the pinnacle of her racer status, she was asked to join the Dancouga team when she was wondering what else she could do.
Johnny Burnett: Pilot of the Dancouga Nova and Nova Elephant. A promising businessman, he was asked to join the Dancouga team when he had doubts about spending his life as a businessman. In his student days, he was a shooting athlete.
・Sakuya Kamon
He pilots the Dancouga Nova and Nova Rhinos. He is unemployed and homeless. However, he doesn't seem to be in financial trouble. There seems to be something going on. Although he acts hot-blooded, he may be the coolest member of the Dancouga team.
・Tachibana Kurara
A female pilot of the Dancouga Nova and Nova Liger. Despite her young age, she is already one of the top narcotics investigators. After arresting the boss of a drug syndicate, she is targeted by a drug cartel. She is thought to be the most skilled in handling conventional weapons among the Dancouga team.
Commander Tanaka: Commander of the Dancouga base, but a middle-management position within the Dancouga organization. He doesn't show any arrogant attitude towards the Dancouga team. Rather, he's a friendly, older man type. However, he is also a capable person who does his job well when it's time to do it.
・Lu Liluri
Although she is only 15 years old, she is the mental counselor for the Dancouga team. She counsels the Dancouga team on their mental state after battle and observes their adaptability, but her eyes are incredibly calm.
A woman who serves as the leader of the maintenance team for the Seimy Dancouga. Although she is 25 years old, in recent years she has found her purpose in life in maintaining robots, and has not had a relationship with a human man for some time. She is aware of this herself, and is feeling a bit frustrated with her relationships.
Aida is a world-famous idol singer. Her popularity exceeds that of Aoi, a world-famous F1 racer and model. Aida will be involved in Dancouga Nova, but the details are a mystery.

■ Main robot items

・Dancouga Nova A robot whose entire existence is a mystery. All we know is that it is an "ally of the weak." It appears on the battlefield or when one side is about to lose a conflict, and returns the situation to an even tide before leaving. There are rumors that it was made with extraterrestrial technology, but the details are unknown. It is said that it has a driving limit, and that it will explode if the limit is exceeded. It is 37.8 meters long.
・It is the head of the Nova Eagle Dancouga. Its pilot is Aoi Hidaka.
Nova Eagle Humanoid mode: Due to its light weight, it is used as a scout. It is skilled in long-distance support attacks.
Nova Eagle Aggressive Beast Mode: Has the instincts of an eagle. Attacks enemies from high in the sky with the claws on its legs.
Nova Eagle Variable Fighter Mode: A high-speed fighter plane. It is primarily used for preemptive attacks, such as bombing attacks on enemies, disrupting battle lines with machine gun attacks, and diversions.
・This is the body of the Nova Elephant Dancouga. Due to the deformation of the shoulders, its silhouette is quite different from Dancouga. It is piloted by Johnny Burnett.
Nova Elephant Humanoid Mode The power of the cannon equipped with a particle accelerator is so great that it would be blown away if it did not mount both legs. Rather than moving itself, its role is to annihilate the enemies that Eagle, Liger, and Rhinos have cornered. By the way, all firearms can be used in two ways, beam and bullet, by changing the attachment.
Nova Elephant: Aggressive Beast Mode. It has the instincts of an elephant. Its movements aren't fast, but its attacks that make use of the power and weight of its trunk are invincible.
・Nova Elephant Variable Tank Mode A heavy tank that mainly uses cannon attacks. Its firepower is on par with that of a battleship.
・Nova Rhinos Dancouga's left leg. Piloted by Kamon Sakuya.
Nova Rhinos: A humanoid mode that excels in hand-to-hand combat, and jumps into the confusion of the enemies caused by Eagle.
Nova Rhinos Aggressive Beast Mode It has the instincts of a rhinoceros. It charges headlong towards the enemy. Its specialty is ramming into the enemy with its horns.
- Nova Rhinos Variable Tank Mode A medium-sized tank equipped with a beam cannon.
Nova Liger: Dancouga's right leg. Piloted by Tatehana Kurara.
Nova Liger Humanoid Mode: Not good at close-quarters combat, but can use bombs and gun attacks to lure enemies into range of the Elephant. Its dominant hand is the left, matching the pilot's.
Nova Liger Aggressive Beast Mode: She has the instincts of a lioness. She attacks with her fangs and claws, slicing her enemies to pieces.
Nova Liger: A medium tank equipped with a variable tank mode live ammunition cannon.

■Subtitle

・MISSION-01／The Mysterious Dancouga ・MISSION-02／Super Beast Fusion!
・MISSION-03/Guiding Sword・MISSION-04/Red Dancouga・MISSION-05/Wall of Lamentations・MISSION-06/Unknown Attack・MISSION-07/Clash!! Dancouga vs Dancouga・MISSION-08/Escape from the Past・MISSION-09/Divine Beast Awakening・MISSION-10/Runaway Passion!
・MISSION-11/Shatter? Ryuga Island!
・FINAL MISSION/Flight to the Future

■ Related works

・Super Beast Machine God Dancouga ・Super Beast Machine God Dancouga: Requiem for the Lost ・Super Beast Machine God Dancouga: God Bless
・Super Beast Machine God Dancouga Incandescent Final Chapter ・Super Beast Machine God Dancouga Song Special Beast Fighter Corps Songs
・Dancouga Nova: Beast Armored Attack Package Version

■ Theme songs and music

・OP1
・Song of the Birds ・Lyrics by Aika Senri ・Composition by NAOKI (DROP ARMY)
Arrangement: Mao Doi Vocals: Aika Senri

・ED1
・PLACE
・Lyrics/Aikaze Chisato ・Composer/NAOKI (DROP ARMY)
Arrangement: Mao Doi Vocals: Aika Senri

・IN1
・Rock Yo mind
Lyrics: Sasa, Tony
・Composer: Sasa
・Arrangement: Sasa
・Song: W-SCORE

A comprehensive review of Juusou Kikou Dancouga Nova

Broadcast in 2007, "Beast Armored Attack: Dancouga Nova" is a robot anime set on Earth in the 22nd century, with the story revolving around a mysterious robot called "Dancouga" that appears as an ally of the weak during frequent local wars. Written by Shinobu Fujiwara and directed by a stellar team of staff including Masami Obari, this work captivated viewers with its deep storyline and appealing characters, despite only having a 12-episode broadcast period. Below, we will take a closer look at the appeal and features of this work, as well as the recommended points.

The appeal of the story

The story of "Dancouga Nova" is set on Earth in the 22nd century. Although there has been no world war, local wars are frequent, and the story centers around a giant robot called "Dancouga" that appears as an ally of the weak. The existence of this robot is shrouded in mystery, and even the four men and women who pilot it do not know its true meaning. Through "Dancouga," they throw themselves into the battle to save the Earth.

From the beginning to the middle of the story, the mysteries of Dancouga and its abilities are gradually revealed. In particular, the scene where Dancouga appears on the battlefield as an "ally of the weak" will leave a strong impression on viewers. Each episode also depicts a different local battlefield, making for a visually appealing experience.

In the second half, the story becomes even deeper as the reason for Dancouga's existence and the growth of its pilots are depicted. In the final episode, Dancouga's true power is released and a fierce battle unfolds. The story unfolds very smoothly, and there are many ingenious ideas to keep the viewer interested.

Character Appeal

The characters in "Dancouga Nova" are all unique and attractive. In particular, the main pilot, Aoi Hidaka, is a beautiful and intelligent woman who is both an F1 racer and a model. Her growth and her bond with Dancouga are important elements of the story. In addition, other pilots such as Johnny Burnett, Sakuya Kamon, and Kurara Tatehana each have their own backgrounds and personalities, which will leave a deep impression on viewers.

The supporting characters are also attractive, and each character adds color to the story, such as Commander Tanaka's friendly personality, Ruu Liluri's calm counseling, and Samy's passion for maintenance. In particular, the development in which the world-famous idol singer Aida becomes involved with Dancouga Nova is a point that draws the viewer's interest.

The appeal of mechanical design

The mechanical design of "Dancouga Nova" was created by Masami Ohbari and Koji Nakakita and is very sophisticated. Dancouga Nova's existence is shrouded in mystery, and there are rumors that it was created using extraterrestrial technology. The process of each part combining to become Dancouga and the battle scenes in each mode are visually very enjoyable.

In particular, the designs of each part, such as the Nova Eagle, Nova Elephant, Nova Rhinos, and Nova Liger, reflect the instincts of animals, making the movements in the battle scenes very realistic and powerful. Also, the scenes where each part transforms into Humanoid Mode, Aggressive Beast Mode, Variable Fighter Mode, and Tank Mode are visually very enjoyable.

The appeal of music

The music of "Dancouga Nova" is impressive with the opening theme "Tori no Uta" and the ending theme "PLACE" by Aika Senri. The opening theme in particular has a powerful melody that brings out the grand image of Dancouga and is sure to capture the hearts of viewers. The inserted song "Rock Yo mind" also plays an important role in livening up the battle scenes.

Recommended points

Despite its short broadcast period, "Dancouga Nova" features a deep storyline, attractive characters, and sophisticated mechanical design and music. I would especially recommend it to viewers who like robot anime and science fiction anime. Below are some specific points that I would recommend.

1. **Deep story and character development**: The mystery of Dancouga and the growth of the pilots are depicted, and the story development draws the viewer in. In particular, the fierce battle in the final episode is a must-see.
2. **Charming characters**: Each character is unique and leaves a deep impression on the viewer. In particular, the growth of the main pilots such as Aoi Tobitaka, Johnny Burnett, Sakuya Kamon, and Kurara Tatehana is a highlight of the series.
3. **Sophisticated Mechanic Design**: The mechanical design by Masami Ohbari and Koji Nakakita reflects the instincts of animals, and the movements in the battle scenes are very realistic and powerful.
4. **Impressive music**: The opening theme "Tori no Uta" and the ending theme "PLACE" by Aika Senri are characterized by their powerful melodies that complement the grand image of Dancouga. The inserted song "Rock Yo mind" also plays an important role in livening up the battle scenes.
5. **Short broadcast period, but packed with content**: Although it was only 12 episodes long, it was packed with a deep story, attractive characters, sophisticated mechanic design and music. There are many ingenious ideas to keep viewers interested.

Related works and their appeal

"Dancouga Nova" is part of the "Dancouga: Super Beast Machine God" series, so you might also want to check out the related works below.

・**Chojuukishin Dancouga**: The original "Dancouga" series, broadcast in 1985. It depicts the birth of Dancouga and its battles, and gives insight into the origins of the series.
・**Dancouga: Requiem for the Lost**: This OVA aired in 1987 and depicts new battles for Dancouga. In particular, the new forms of Dancouga and its battles with enemies are worth seeing.
・**God Bless Dancouga**: This OVA aired in 1987 and shows the further evolution of Dancouga. The highlights are Dancouga's new powers and battles with enemies.
**Choujuukishin Dancouga: The Incandescent Final Chapter**: This OVA aired in 1988 and depicts the final battle of Dancouga. In particular, it shows the true power of Dancouga and its battle with the enemy.
・**Chojuukishin Dancouga Song Special Jusenkishin Songs**: This soundtrack was released in 1988, and allows you to enjoy the music of the Dancouga series. The opening and ending themes are particularly memorable.
・**Dancouga Nova: The Packaged Version**: This DVD packaged version of "Dancouga Nova: The Packaged Version" includes bonus footage and interviews. The behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the staff are particularly interesting.

summary

"Dancouga Nova" is a robot anime set on Earth in the 22nd century, and the story revolves around a mysterious robot called "Dancouga" that appears as an ally of the weak during frequent local wars. It features a deep storyline, attractive characters, and sophisticated mechanical design and music, and is highly recommended for viewers who like robot and science fiction anime. Check out the related works to gain a deeper understanding of the appeal of the series as a whole.