When Claude Kenni is mysteriously transported to a strange planet, his only
intention is to find a way back home. But Claude ends up rescuing a cute girl
named Rena from a monster, and Rena is convinced that Claude is the legendary
"holy warrior" that's going to save the planet from destruction. Thus
Claude and Rena set off on a journey that would determine one world's fate...
Star Ocean EX Anime Review
Star Ocean EX is a 26-episode TV series based on the Sony Playstation game
Star Ocean: 2nd Story. Now Star Ocean: 2nd Story happens to be one of my all
time favorite RPGs, and so I was full of anticipation for this particular
anime release.
Star Ocean EX chronicles Claude and Rena's journey to save the planet. Like
most RPGs, these two travel to different towns and dungeons, recruit party
members, gain information, and level up in terms of skills and abilities.
Eventually, Claude and Rena form one big party to troop to the final boss'
lair and attack. Having played the game prior to watching the anime is a
double-edged sword.
On one hand, I was very happy to see familiar characters and places -- so
happy that I got the uncontrollable urge to pick up the game once more and
play all the way through it for the fifth time. But on the other hand, this
series is so closely based on the game that the story is basically the same.
That about killed any sense of suspense or thrill for me because I already
knew who Claude and Rena were going to meet, what was going to happen, and so
forth.
The art and animation are nicely done. Character designs are beautiful and
quite faithful to those you'd find in the game. Alas, Star Ocean EX's ending
leaves something else to be desired. It's a big cliffhanger -- Claude realizes
his self-worth, and everybody discovers that they still need to defeat some
more baddies. The end. What the hell is up with that? I don't know if this is
one way of telling me there's going to be a sequel but I was mighty pissed
after sitting through all 26 eps and then being given that.
On a more positive note, I really enjoyed how the characters were portrayed
because their individual personalities really shone through in spite of
everything. It was fun watching them relate to each other and handle various
situations in their own ways.
Star Ocean EX is altogether an above average anime, but to be honest it's
really better off as a game. Those who've played Star Ocean: 2nd Story can't
help but know what's going to happen next, while those who've never played may
find the whole drill of going to towns, recruiting people, etc. a tad tedious. If you like playing through RPGs (like I do) I suggest you play the
game instead... I'd only recommend this anime if you like RPGs but don't want
to play them.
Miscellanies: Star Ocean EX
Claude and Rena's romance is given more emphasis in the anime.
Star Ocean EX | |
| Genre | Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-Fi |
|---|---|
| Episodes | 26 |
| Status | Finished Airing |
| Aired | Apr 3, 2001 to Sep 25, 2001 |
| Producers | TV Tokyo, Dentsu |
| Studio | Studio Deen |
| Rating | PG-13 - Teens 13 or older |
| Themes | - |
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