I always get excited when I find an anime that masterfully blends action, adventure, and a challenging virtual world, perhaps because I really got into this style after Sword Art Online, (yeah, unfortunately I removed the Wikipedia link, couldn't find a better one). And I can say that Shangri-La Frontier hit the mark with this combo. Since I started watching, each episode has been an exciting journey through the immersive universe of a game that seems as real as life itself.
Shangri-La Frontier
- Release Date: 2023
- Directed by: Toshiyuki Kubooka
Shangri-La Frontier begins by introducing the main character, Rakuro Hizutome, who is a true gaming aficionado, especially for those considered of low quality. But what do I mean by low quality? That's right, he loves exploring bad games or those considered trash! Not just any kind of bad game; he enjoys the games that everyone else avoids, finding pleasure in overcoming their flaws and bugs. His passion leads him to the game of the same title as the anime, Shangri-La Frontier, a popular VR game known for its vast open world and intense challenges. The game is so famous that it attracts millions of players seeking achievements and adventures.
Yes, it seems like we've heard this in another anime, haven't we? If you watch a lot of these genres like me, you know this is more cliché than it seems.
What immediately drew me to Shangri-La Frontier was the ability of Rakuro or his character Sunraku (A play on his name) to identify and exploit flaws in games, a skill he brings to this new environment. He isn't content with playing on the surface; he dives deep, seeking to uncover all the secrets and challenges the game has to offer. This resonates a lot with me, obviously, I'm talking about playing RPGs.
I could be more honest and say that the anime's cover caught my attention more, a blue bird's head holding two daggers.
Wait, you'll see more of these bizarre and funny things in this anime. Believe it.
Throughout the episodes, we follow Rakuro facing numerous challenges, from fearsome monsters to puzzles that test his intelligence and dexterity. And the best part is that he's not alone on this journey. The supporting cast, including characters like Psyger-0 and Oicazzo, adds a rich layer of interaction and strategy to the game. The dynamic between the characters is something that really highlights Shangri-La Frontier, showing not just how they grow individually but also how they work as a team to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Visually, I would consider it standard or acceptable. The creators did a fantastic job of bringing the context of Shangri-La Frontier to the anime, but it seems like I've seen these graphics somewhere before.
Though the fight scenes are dynamic and full of energy, with choreography that keeps you on the edge of your seat. And let's not forget the soundtrack, which is absolutely engaging, perfectly complementing the fast-paced action and emotions of the show. But what really makes Shangri-La Frontier stand out for me, even with these similarities to others, is how it explores themes of persistence and discovery in a somewhat comedic way, not just focusing on that. Rakuro is the perfect example of how facing challenges can lead to significant growth.
Concluding my review on the anime, this anime is one of those rare gems in the universe of anime that manages to entertain, inspire, and provoke thought. If you're a fan of epic adventures in fantastic worlds or simply love a good story of overcoming, this anime is definitely worth watching.
• Cover image: alphacoders - Shangri-La Frontier •
