What is Bubblegum Crisis?

Bubblegum Crisis is an OVA (Original Video Animation) series released between 1987 and 1991. The series is celebrated for its combination of action, character development, and thematic depth, making it a standout title in the cyberpunk genre of anime.

What is the setting of Bubblegum Crisis?

The series is set in a futuristic version of Tokyo, called Mega Tokyo, in the year 2032. The setting is characterized by advanced robotics and cybernetics amid urban decay and social unrest.

What is the plot of Bubblegum Crisis?

The story revolves around four women known as the Knight Sabers, who wear powered exoskeletons to battle a megacorporation named Genom and its rogue products called Boomers. These artificial lifeforms frequently go out of control, endangering society.

What role does music play in Bubblegum Crisis?

The series is known for its J-pop and rock soundtrack, which complements the energetic and dramatic tone. The late 80s animation style, with detailed mechanical designs and action sequences, also adds to the series' appeal.

What is the legacy of Bubblegum Crisis?

Bubblegum Crisis is regarded as a cult classic that significantly shaped the cyberpunk genre in anime. Its depiction of strong, independent female protagonists and its fusion of urban decay with advanced technology helped define the cyberpunk aesthetic. The series' influence can be seen in many subsequent anime, especially female-led action series.

What are the spin-offs and sequels of Bubblegum Crisis?

Bubblegum Crisis has various spin-offs and sequels, including 'Bubblegum Crash,' 'AD Police Files,' and 'Bubblegum Crisis Tokyo 2040,' a reimagining of the original series with different character dynamics and plot elements.

Where can I watch Bubblegum Crisis?

You can stream Bubblegum Crisis on platforms that provide retro anime content. Please check your preferred streaming service for availability.

Subbed Bubblegum Crisis anime TV series official image

Follow the thrilling adventures of the Knight Sabers, an elite, all-female group of mercenaries…

PLAY SERIES

ANIME | ACTION & ADVENTURE | SCI-FI-& FANTASY – TV-MA

PLAY SERIES

Bubblegum Crisis (Original Japanese)

Q: What are the key themes in Bubblegum Crisis?

Bubblegum Crisis explores cyberpunk themes, such as the nature of humanity in an increasingly technological world, corporate power, and the blurred line between humans and machines.

The series is often celebrated for its combination of action, character development, and thematic depth, making it a standout title in the cyberpunk genre of anime.

Background and Release

“Bubblegum Crisis” is an OVA (Original Video Animation) series released between 1987 and 1991. The series was produced by Youmex and animated by AIC and Artmic.

Setting

The series is set in a futuristic Tokyo, named Mega Tokyo, in the year 2032. This setting is characterized by a high level of technology, including advanced robotics and cybernetics, set against a backdrop of urban decay and social unrest.

Plot

The story revolves around a group of four women, the Knight Sabers, who wear powered exoskeletons to fight against a megacorporation named Genom and its rogue products, the Boomers. Boomers are a type of artificial lifeform or robot that often go out of control, posing a threat to society.

Characters

The main characters are Priss Asagiri, Sylia Stingray, Nene Romanova, and Linna Yamazaki. Each character has a unique personality and background, adding depth to the narrative. Priss, for instance, is a rock singer and a rough-and-tumble fighter, while Sylia is the enigmatic leader of the group.

Themes

“Bubblegum Crisis” explores themes common to cyberpunk, such as the nature of humanity in an increasingly technological world, corporate power, and the blurring line between humans and machines.

Music and Style

The series is notable for its music, featuring J-pop and rock songs that add to the energetic and dramatic tone of the series. The animation style is reflective of late 80s anime, with detailed mechanical designs and dynamic action sequences.

Influence and Legacy

Bubblegum Crisis is widely regarded as a cult classic, significantly shaping the cyberpunk genre in anime. Its futuristic world, blending gritty urban settings with high-tech elements, helped define the aesthetic that would become synonymous with cyberpunk in Japanese animation. The series is particularly notable for its depiction of strong, independent female protagonists who don advanced powered armor to fight against corrupt corporations and rogue robots. This portrayal of empowered women was groundbreaking at the time and played a crucial role in setting Bubblegum Crisis apart from other series of its era. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent anime, inspiring a wave of female-led action series and contributing to the evolution of the cyberpunk genre as a whole. The show’s legacy continues to resonate with both creators and fans, maintaining its status as a touchstone of 1980s anime.

Spin-offs and Sequels

The series has seen various spin-offs and sequels, including “Bubblegum Crash”, “AD Police Files”, and “Bubblegum Crisis Tokyo 2040”, which is a reimagining of the original story with different character dynamics and plot elements.

WATCH NOW