Sengoku BASARA 2 review: A sequel that combines history and action

Sengoku BASARA II - Senkoku Basara II - Comprehensive review and recommendation

■Overview of the work

"Sengoku BASARA 2" is the second installment of the TV anime series based on Capcom's popular game series "Sengoku BASARA." It was produced by Mainichi Broadcasting System and aired on a total of 28 TBS affiliated stations from July 11 to September 26, 2010, and was also streamed on Animax, Niconico Channel, and Niconico Live Broadcast. It consists of 12 episodes, each 30 minutes long, directed by Nomura Kazuya and animated by Production IG. Capcom's Kobayashi Hiroyuki and Yamamoto Makoto are supervising the original work, and the series is supported by a stellar team of staff.

■ Story

Set in the Sengoku period, this is a story of soldiers returning to the battlefield once again as they seek to rule the country. After a deadly battle with the Sixth Demon Lord, Oda Nobunaga, Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin clash at Kawanakajima, while Date Masamune and Sanada Yukimura are also facing a fateful showdown. However, a mysterious large army suddenly appears and besieges the three armies, and with the emergence of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the overlord of the Sengoku period, chaos descends once again on the world. A fierce battle unfolds, with each character carrying wounds and blades in their hearts.

■Characters and Cast

The appeal of this work lies in its unique characters. A stellar cast of voice actors, including Nakai Kazuya as Date Masamune, Hoshi Soichiro as Sanada Yukimura, and Morita Masakazu as Maeda Keiji, bring the characters to life. The rivalry between Date Masamune and Sanada Yukimura is particularly noteworthy, and their battles and growth add excitement to the story. Also not to be missed are the performances of veteran voice actors such as Genda Tesshō as Takeda Shingen and Paku Romi as Uesugi Kenshin.

■ Main staff

Director Nomura Kazuya has succeeded in faithfully recreating the worldview of the Sengoku BASARA series while bringing out new appeal. Character designer and chief animation director Okubo Toru has paid attention to every detail when incorporating the original visuals into animation, bringing out the best in the characters. In addition, the soundtrack by Sawano Hiroyuki, who was in charge of the music, effectively conveys the tension of the battles and the emotions of the characters, greatly contributing to the atmosphere of the work.

■ Theme songs and music

The opening theme "SWORD SUMMIT" is performed by TM Revolution, and the powerful music composed by Daisuke Asakura symbolizes the theme of the work. The ending theme is performed by Angelo, and two songs, "El Dorado" and "FATE", are used. In addition, insert songs such as "Namida-den" by Chiaki Ishikawa and "Yuzurenai Omoi" by May'n are used, and the emotional singing voices that match the development of the story will capture the hearts of viewers.

■Subtitles and Episodes

The subtitles of each episode often symbolize the feelings of the characters and the development of the battles, drawing the viewer's interest. For example, episode 1, "Chaos Returns! The Descendance of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the World-Splitting Emperor!" depicts the return of chaos with the arrival of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, while episode 5, "The Seal of a Vow! The One-Eyed Dragon vs. the God of War at Hitotori Bridge!" depicts the confrontation between Date Masamune and Uesugi Kenshin. Each episode tells the story from the perspective of a different character, allowing viewers to enjoy the story from multiple angles.

■ Related works

There are many other related works in the "Sengoku BASARA" series. In addition to the original game, there are also unaired versions, the Utage Edition, and the movie "Sengoku BASARA The Last Party," so fans can enjoy these works as well. There are also many spinoff works such as Gakuen BASARA and Mini Sengoku BASARA, so you can enjoy the entire series.

■ Evaluation

"Sengoku BASARA 2" is a work that maximizes the appeal of the original game while digging deeper into the story and characters that are unique to the anime. In particular, the rivalry between Date Masamune and Sanada Yukimura, and the new developments with the appearance of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, are elements that draw viewers in. In addition, the visuals and music, which show the attention to detail of the luxurious voice actors and the staff, also enhance the quality of the work.

This work, with its distinctive characters, offers an epic story set in the Warring States period. Each character's background and feelings are carefully depicted, allowing viewers to empathize with their growth and fighting style. The battle scenes are also very impressive, making them a visual treat.

However, viewers who are not familiar with the original game may find the character settings and worldview a little difficult to understand, but if you are drawn into the story development and the charm of the characters, you will be able to enjoy it even if you are not familiar with the original game.

■Recommendation

"Sengoku BASARA 2" is an appealing work with a grand story and unique characters set in the Sengoku period. It is especially recommended for fans of the original game and those who like the Sengoku period. It is also suitable for those who enjoy action scenes and music. Viewers will empathize with the characters' growth and fighting style and will be drawn into the development of the story.

In addition, the quality of the work is enhanced by the gorgeous voice actors and the visuals and music that show the staff's attention to detail. There are many related works, so you can enjoy the entire series. This work is recommended not only for fans of the Sengoku BASARA series, but also for new viewers.