Kengan Ashura is a Japanese anime television series based on Yabako Sandrovich‘s manga of the same name. It was produced by Larx Entertainment and directed by Seiji Kishi. Now, the second season has been released on Netflix.
This thrilling anime takes us into a world where business disputes are settled through brutal gladiator-style fights.
Synopsis
In the world of Kengan Ashura, powerful corporations and wealthy individuals resolve their disputes through underground fighting tournaments. These tournaments, called Kengan matches, have a rich history dating back to the Edo Period. During that time, gladiators fought in grand arenas to represent their employers and settle conflicts. Today, this tradition lives on, but the battles take place in hidden locations.
In the series Kengan Ashura, Ouma Tokita, also known as “The Ashura,” is a determined fighter with the clear goal of establishing himself as the strongest of them all. Another important character is Kazuo Yamashita, an ordinary middle-aged man who takes on the role of Ouma’s manager. Together, they navigate the dangerous realm where Kengan’s matches take place, and where he confronts formidable adversaries.
About the Series
What sets Kengan Ashura apart is its thrilling action sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The fights are choreographed with formidable precision, showcasing a diverse range of martial arts styles. Each character possesses their own distinct fighting technique, resulting in captivating battles. Despite being rendered in 3D CGI, the animation effectively captures the fluidity and intensity of the fights, fully immersing the audience in the action.
Besides the fights themselves, Kengan Ashura delves into the competitive business of corporate politics. The series wonders into the pasts and motivations of its different characters, uncovering their ruthlessness and how far they are capable of going to attain that “precious” victory. The interactions between the fighters and their corporate sponsors bring an another layer of intrigue to the narrative, as alliances are forged and rivalries escalate, giving the story some complexity.
Kengan Ashura is an interesting blend of genres that surprised us with the plots, and sub-plots, and its more than expected layers. This might manage to captivate audiences with its unique fusion of martial arts and corporate drama.
The Manga Connection
Kengan Ashura is not only an anime but also has its roots in web manga. The original manga, written by Yabako Sandrovich and illustrated by Daromeon, has been widely celebrated for its intricate plotlines and detailed artwork. The anime adaptation successfully brings the manga’s gripping story to life, allowing fans of the series to experience the intense action in a new medium.
Our Opinion
Kengan Ashura will most likely be to the liking of fans of martial arts anime. The series features intense fights, it counts on well-developed characters, and even has a captivating plot, setting it apart from others in the genre. Although the CGI animation may not appeal to everyone, Kengan Ashura offers an exhilarating and action-filled experience overall. If you’re looking for an anime that blends martial arts, corporate conspiracies, and memorable characters, Kengan Ashura deserves a prominent spot on your list of shows to watch.
Season 2 Release Date
September 20, 2023
Where to Watch Kengan Ashura
The Cast
Tetsu Inada
Daisuke Hirakawa
Daisuke Namikawa
Cho
Visitor Rating: 3 Stars