
Aquarion MoE Ep 1 Review: A Confusing Start
Alright , it’s that time folks! It’s the return of the modern Getter Robo: Aquarion. This time, we’re getting a series that seems to be even crazier than Logos. Myth of Emotion is basically a half “return to form” for the franchise – with designs going back to the roots of the series – but with an entirely new premise as well as art style. And frankly, it needs to be very good in terms of plot to make up for the visuals.

We got a slight prologue at the start – something about some dude that became a space egg. Which is confusing as hell – but it’s probably one of the myth that has to do with the winged people we saw in the previous trailer. We’ll keep that in mind as we proceed, since this series seems to do more with “space” instead of “time” or “dimension”.
We started with a Symphogear reference – no really, we’re literally starting with a funeral of one of the main cast in the series. Even though the character synopsis before the anime air date mentioned this, we didn’t really know how they were going to make it, but now, we got our answers. The funeral is used to establish 2 things – the main character’s demeanor as well as one the side cast’s, along with some relationship nuance as well. Even from the character design, we can tell that Sakko – the red-haired boy – is a very rebellious, devil-may-care type of character. He likes to go against the norm and stand out, by not wearing school uniform like everyone else as well as using a completely different flower to offer to Ichiki – the girl who “died”. We also get that Rimiya – the blue-haired boy who cried during the funeral, actually didn’t really know Ichiki at all. But he still cry the most at the funeral. So that kinda says something about him. In the OP, we also see the “emotions” that the characters are associated with, and his is “Empathy” – we can deduce that he is the sensitive type that will act empathetic in any situation no matter who is involved.
And then we get a pretty nice Opening – a new rendition of “Sousei no Aquarion” by Jam Project’s Yoshiki Fukuyama and Bless4’s AKINO – the original band that sung the song. The music is much more “rugged” and the instruments aren’t as prominent as the previous edition, but carries more “power” from Nekki Basara’s powerful vocals. This further connects the series to the theme of the original series.
We started with a Symphogear reference – no really, we’re literally starting with a funeral of one of the main cast in the series. Even though the character synopsis before the anime air date mentioned this, we didn’t really know how they were going to make it, but now, we got our answers. The funeral is used to establish 2 things – the main character’s demeanor as well as one the side cast’s, along with some relationship nuance as well. Even from the character design, we can tell that Sakko – the red-haired boy – is a very rebellious, devil-may-care type of character. He likes to go against the norm and stand out, by not wearing school uniform like everyone else as well as using a completely different flower to offer to Ichiki – the girl who “died”. We also get that Rimiya – the blue-haired boy who cried during the funeral, actually didn’t really know Ichiki at all. But he still cry the most at the funeral. So that kinda says something about him. In the OP, we also see the “emotions” that the characters are associated with, and his is “Empathy” – we can deduce that he is the sensitive type that will act empathetic in any situation no matter who is involved.
And then we get a pretty nice Opening – a new rendition of “Sousei no Aquarion” by Jam Project’s Yoshiki Fukuyama and Bless4’s AKINO – the original band that sung the song. The music is much more “rugged” and the instruments aren’t as prominent as the previous edition, but carries more “power” from Nekki Basara’s powerful vocals. This further connects the series to the theme of the original series.

Then we get to the daily school life stuff – to establish the settings and the main cast further. So we get Sakko as the delinquent student that is obsessed with parkour – which he doesn’t seem to know why he’s so passionate about it. This could also be a reference to how Apollo was behaving like a beast in the original show without really knowing why – and turns out the reason is he’s the reincarnation of a dog. So Sakko’s parkour obsession might also be something that is related to his past life – which was the “coward” Priest Nanook.
Then we get the love interest of the main char – well, her reincarnation anyway, Amaha Momohime is one of Sakko’s childhood friend along with Ichiki. Amaha is the reincarnation of Sedna – Nanook’s love interest. In the first ep, Amaha didn’t do much, probably saving her for next ep. It was established that she is a very popular girl due to her looks and demeanor, but she refuses any romantic advances – which points to her only have eyes for Sakko due to their past lives.
And we have Rimiya Tsukishiro – the reincarnation of Sedna’s Sister; Haida – a boy who cried at a random schoolmate funeral. The synopsis said that he lack empathy – but will act sensitive in public to hide the fact that he actually doesn’t feel anything. As the theme of the series suggest, the characters will have to recall the time when they had wings, recall their past lives, to unlock the emotion that they currently do not possess. In Rimiya’s case, it is Empathy. But since he’s also a gender-bent version of Haida, we might see some plot twists if they reveal a complicated relationship between Nanook, Sedna and Haida later on. We’ll see which character is involved in this “triangle”.
And then we get Toshi Hatano – a boy who is quite clumsy and reserved, but possesses a strong curiosity about the world. You can see that is the emotion he was associated with during the OP. He also doesn’t show much yet this episode, but will get established on later.
Then we get the love interest of the main char – well, her reincarnation anyway, Amaha Momohime is one of Sakko’s childhood friend along with Ichiki. Amaha is the reincarnation of Sedna – Nanook’s love interest. In the first ep, Amaha didn’t do much, probably saving her for next ep. It was established that she is a very popular girl due to her looks and demeanor, but she refuses any romantic advances – which points to her only have eyes for Sakko due to their past lives.
And we have Rimiya Tsukishiro – the reincarnation of Sedna’s Sister; Haida – a boy who cried at a random schoolmate funeral. The synopsis said that he lack empathy – but will act sensitive in public to hide the fact that he actually doesn’t feel anything. As the theme of the series suggest, the characters will have to recall the time when they had wings, recall their past lives, to unlock the emotion that they currently do not possess. In Rimiya’s case, it is Empathy. But since he’s also a gender-bent version of Haida, we might see some plot twists if they reveal a complicated relationship between Nanook, Sedna and Haida later on. We’ll see which character is involved in this “triangle”.
And then we get Toshi Hatano – a boy who is quite clumsy and reserved, but possesses a strong curiosity about the world. You can see that is the emotion he was associated with during the OP. He also doesn’t show much yet this episode, but will get established on later.

Then we get to the “girl who died” – Sayo Ichiki. She mysteriously show up as a “ghost” that only the Element students can see – Sakko, Rimiya and Toshi. This reminds me of the anime Asura Cryin’ – which also feature “spirit” character. It seems that she will play a “guidance” role to unlock the past memories of the cast – opening the doors to the mythical era of the “winged people”.
The episode also show some of the “adult” teachers – which is pretty stereotypical for now – we get a caring and gentle female teacher, a mad scientist type, and a strong-looking PE teacher, as well as a very…inhuman principal – which if you watched the first 2 Aquarion – kinda fits Fudo in way with his eccentricity. And the teacher settings remind me of Neo-Deava in EVOL.
But it won’t be a mecha anime if we don’t see any mecha right? That’s why we get our first deployment to act as a “hook” for the series. A mythical beast appeared from a crack in space and the Vectors have to deploy. I really like how they deploy the Vectors in, well, three different Vectors – we got the diagonal Z-axis, then the straight up Y-axis,
and finally, the horizontal X-axis. But one of the thing I wish they showed is the combination sequence of the Aquarion Siegel – since they only show the completed combination after a scene cut. That’s equivalent to the Power Rangers movie with the “how did they combine?” Megazord scene. We kinda have an idea since it’s the equivalent of Solar and Evol, but still, we’d prefer to see it in full.
The episode also show some of the “adult” teachers – which is pretty stereotypical for now – we get a caring and gentle female teacher, a mad scientist type, and a strong-looking PE teacher, as well as a very…inhuman principal – which if you watched the first 2 Aquarion – kinda fits Fudo in way with his eccentricity. And the teacher settings remind me of Neo-Deava in EVOL.
But it won’t be a mecha anime if we don’t see any mecha right? That’s why we get our first deployment to act as a “hook” for the series. A mythical beast appeared from a crack in space and the Vectors have to deploy. I really like how they deploy the Vectors in, well, three different Vectors – we got the diagonal Z-axis, then the straight up Y-axis,
and finally, the horizontal X-axis. But one of the thing I wish they showed is the combination sequence of the Aquarion Siegel – since they only show the completed combination after a scene cut. That’s equivalent to the Power Rangers movie with the “how did they combine?” Megazord scene. We kinda have an idea since it’s the equivalent of Solar and Evol, but still, we’d prefer to see it in full.

All in all, the first episode of Myth of Emotion shows us a lot of things – but none of them are particularly “exciting” or “intriguing”. The art style of the character can also throw some people off. So we really need to see more to form an opinion on the series, especially the Mythical Era where they will use full 3DCG to animate the characters. I’d say this is an average start to the series. It has a lot of call-backs to the original, but didn’t really stand out in a meaningful way. Hoping we’ll see more interesting stuff next episode.
Check our more reviews here:
Lowji and Red’s conflict escalated as the team try to fight against the Lord. What is the meaning of “bond” to both of them? And can they set their differences aside to fight together?
The final battle with all Drivers present, even an unexpected returner. The ending is quite a bittersweet one, which is something unique to Change The World.
Sweet genesis Alabama! Momohime and Rimiya – who were siblings in their previous lives – are developing their romance this ep? Surely this isn’t an Aquarion mindtrick?
The party member doubles as a Princess and her Knight join the team. But not without a hot-blooded duel first. And of course, more Sentai shenanigans ensue.
Ringing Fate took us by surprise by hitting us with a extremely deep and emotional episode. Ookuma’s reason for challenging Qing Sun is revealed at last…
Momohime joins the team and become the only girl after Sayo. She appears to be a charismatic and perfect girl, but is she really?
Taisei and Ina confronted Vina about her actions regarding the abandoned data. And it feels like a forced drama to pad out the remaining runtime.
We explored Offline’s background in this episode, along with poking fun at him. Nevertheless, he has gained his own Mashin – the Fujinmaru!
We got comedy, we got Toku references, and we got some badass “Power of Friendship” as well. Yidhra once again being the Tsukkomi of the Super Sentai tropes.
Slow, slow, quick, quick slow. Oh, it’s just our cute loli training boxing with a walking bear, nothing much! And we get 2 battles this episode too!
The secret of the world, or rather, worlds, revealed. The struggle between two worlds hinges on Aquarion. Meanwhile, Sayo revealed her suffering.
After Reiji and Tender was defeated, the Unknown will most likely stop. With ERDA’s disbandment and the Shinkalions being retired soon, what will our Drivers think? Especially Taisei when Vina is still missing.
After a heroic act of sacrifice, the Red Senshi was transported to another world. Here, he will keep his heroic resolution and protect the weak as the Bansou Sentai Kizuna Red!
The new Isekai Hero Wataru is back! But this time, we’re getting a mix of Minecraft, Youtube and Streaming for the new Gen-Z kids watching.
The return of Aquarion begins with an unexpected but questioning start. Can this series set itself apart and reignite the emotions fans love about the original?
A young girl set out on a journey to reclaim her memory and life in a mecha tournament. What is hidden behind her innocence and cheerfulness?
The hard-fought battle is over – and the mystery behind the Unknown is also solved. A man’s dream turned into a nightmare by his closest friend. Will the fabricated justice fail after this?
The final duel between fateful opponents – Alma and Hikaru versus Fist possessing Jun. The winner shall decide the fate of the world…
The climactic battle between Taisei and Reiji begins now. It’s not just a clash of power, but also ideals as well. And which side will be strong enough to triumph?
When many small efforts result in big results. Everyone from ARMS, the Kagami Group and others unite to bring about the greatest miracle. The final battle approaches…
With the support of everyone, Taisei finally got his head in the game. But Reiji upped the difficulty with a brand new combination – here comes Chaos!
So much ups and downs this episode. An insane revelation, a dramatic battle, an emotional reunion, and an epic alliance. This episode set the stage for the upcoming climax.
The culprit who caused Reiji’s suffering was revealed. And the despicable actions of Commander Kaji are brought to light. But that isn’t enough to stop Reiji’s crusade.
We’re going all out fist blazing against Ordela. But it is just a mid-boss, as we learn about the true mastermind behind everything. And Jun proved to be a crucial MVP.
The tragedy of Reiji revealed. An extremely dark chronicle filled with despair that happened to a teenager that broke his mind and set him on a path of revenge. But who is responsible?
We get a glimpse of Tohdoh Kagami’s true plan of awakening the Ordela. And ARMS is rushing to stop it. And of course, Hikaru is also coming to take back Alma.
Morito, devastated after he struck down Ido, found himself in agony. But wallowing in despair won’t help him. Instead he found the way to a greater purpose.
Alma’s past with Yakumo revealed, a tragic story that separated two best friends. And in the present, Alma once again separated from his current partner. But something else is brewing in the dark…
Two revelations in this episode: one worth celebrating and one devastating. The team learned about Reiji and his story, but also met the pilot of the new Shinkalion.
Amaryllis’ true plan revealed. Caught in the crossfire, Aki intended to sacrifice herself. But Hikaru won’t stand for it. Another blazing episode!
Two revelations in this episode: one worth celebrating and one devastating. The team learned about Reiji and his story, but also met the pilot of the new Shinkalion.
Aki finally found the Worm-type user she so hate, but the user’s identity shock her. Now she has to pick between the two person she value most.
Hikaru officially became an ARMS member. And now we move onto Alma’s past and Aki’s vengeance. The Worm-type user finally showed up, but…?
The story behind Reiji’s disappearance and ERDA’s change revealed. A chain of events that went from good to bad. Even so, time presses on.
Brought him in just to put him down. Hikaru and Alma faced challenges from all sides, but their bonds evolved thanks to that. Time to bring the heat!
We make our return to Rei(Zero) as we looked back at Ina and Reiji before they became enemies. A young ERDA that is quite different to today as well.
More Super Robot hijinks and tropes from Yamato in this episode. A new Deerkalion and an old face coming back to haunt ERDA. Is this episode just for show?
Time for some school life romcom – with murderous henchmen in Kill la Kill style. The perfect mix between seriousness and comedy remove any bore from the series.
A forgotten series making its comeback. And it brought us some huge nostalgia for the early 2000s sci-fi-shounens. Gotta give a hand to Mecha-Ude for making it this far!
It couldn’t get more hot-blooded in Shinkalion as we’re introduced to Yamato – a true-blue Super Robot pilot. But behind his bravado is a worry shared by many new mecha pilots.
The climactic showdown between the one who want to save the world and the one who want to tear it down. And at the end of the road, a miracle occurred.
The finale of the reboot UFO Robot…and it consist mostly of Duke going berserk and forced moments between characters. Wasted potential and missed opportunity is what we are left with at the end.
A surprising focus for this episode. We take a look at Delta and his friendship with an old AI. And they drop an insane plot point about a supposedly “dead” Driver.
If you think Gren U can’t get any more like SEED, you’re wrong. The series take a turn for the worse as it get even more bogged down in drama and no resolution in sight.
A2 and 9S finally meet. But before that, we have some pretty good action leading up to the eventual climax, including the fall of the machine lifeform.
Ep 11 delivers a massive blow to the nuts as SEED director continues to feed his ego
Welcome back to the Rizztival. Akane and Ryota flex their ability to capture people’s hearts with a very laid-back and funny episode.
Another big wave. Tsukumo struggle with both his siblings and a new enemy. But he showed his potential as he overcome his first major challenge after debuting.
A full exposition episode explaining Project Gestalt as well as Devola and Popola’s background. And we can’t forget 9S’ depression streak.
Mazinger Z returns in a new form – Mazinger X, but does it live up to the buildup it’s been given?
The fight isn’t over yet. The final Resistance camp is under attack by the virus. And this episode finally pushed A2 and 9S onto their final destination.
Cut through the waves! A new addition to the team in the Kyushu region is Tsukumo Namikaze – a driver that can match Ryota’s energetic attitude.
The final battle with Norland has taken place. Victory is certain for the protagonist, but will the price be worth it? Is this ending truly satisfying?
It’s time to fight – both in and out. A2 risked her life to protect the machines she used to hate, and 9S walked into a trap that he used to be careful about.
Grendizer U is finally reaching its finale, and all the factions’ motive and thoughts are gradually revealed
A festival episode where everyone enjoy the festivities. Taisei made a new friend as well as some progress on everyone’s relationship. Overall a feel good episode.
The battle has come to an end, with only 2 episodes left until the end of Code Geass. Ash and Sakuya finally face Norland – or the clone of Charles zi Britannia. Will the two be able to defeat Norland?
The best way to resolve conflict is to sit down and talk, but is it true for Duke and Rubina?
Two people who used to be opposites then, are still opposites now – but their personalities have swapped. An expressive A2 versus a raging, seething 9S. Where will the story take them?
Episode 9 ties up some loose ends and prepares us for the final battle.
Every Mecha anime has that underwater fight episode, and ep 7 is that ep for Grendizer. It also introduces the Spazers and hints at some of Hikaru’s secrets
Hitting two birds with one stone. Akane resolved his issue and the SRG formation is possible. But this episode also has a first for the series.
After 2 episodes without any fight scenes, the viewers are compensated with fiery confrontations
Letting special guests go wild with their styles, episode 6 is filled with diverse, full of personality animation.
She sighs, she pouts, and she smiles. A2 show us a myriad of expression this episode that clear out the dark clouds of negativity. However, not everyone is in a happy mood.