6.5 / 10 (based on 83 reviews)
A young man takes in an alien princess, and the two have various adventures on Earth, while falling in love.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Christine M. Auten, Greg Ayres, Luci Christian, Tiffany Grant
Creators: Kaishaku
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4 seasons, 32 episodes
Shows Most Like UFO Princess Walkure (2002)
Itai no wa Iya nano de Bougyoryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai to Omoimasu (2020)
7.5 / 10 (based on 1960 reviews)
Honjou Kaede is invited by her friend Shiramine Risa to play a virtual reality MMO game with her. While Kaede doesn’t dislike games, what she really, truly dislikes is being in pain.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
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Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear (2020)
6.8 / 10 (based on 432 reviews)
Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear revolves around a 15-year-old Yuna. One day, upon returning home, she is hyped for a new update for her favorite world’s first VRMMO, World Fantasy Online. Ever since the game service began one year ago, she quit going to school and just passed time doing absolutely nothing, but playing the game. After the server’s maintenance has been performed and a new update has become online, Yuna meets either a GM, or an NPC, telling her that all the players may receive a loot box and the reward will depend on how long they have been playing the game. Yuna receives a kuma costume, which she finds embarrassing at first, but later quickly forgets about that feeling, when she sees the stats of this costume, which are quite high. Having received the costume, she is also asked to take a survey: her attitude towards real life, her opinion on the game, if she believes in God and finally if she finds the kuma costume cute. Finally, she logs in the game and finds out that she wears that detestable kuma costume and receives a mail from some mysterious person. That person welcomes her in the new world, since she finds real life too boring. ‘Enjoy your life, wearing the costume, you do not like, in a world, in which you are sent by someone, you know nothing about.’ Things become complicated, when Yuna finds out that she is now not in a virtual reality, but rather in a real world.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Fantasy
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Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! (2019)
6.5 / 10 (based on 697 reviews)
When she turns ten years old, Adele von Ascham is hit with a horrible headache-and memories of her previous life as an eighteen-year-old Japanese girl named Kurihara Misato. That life changed abruptly, however, when Misato died trying to aid a little girl and met god. During that meeting, she made an odd request and asked for average abilities in her next life. But few things-especially wishes-ever go quite as planned.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
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1 season, 12 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Eureka Seven: Ao (2012)
6.7 / 10 (based on 420 reviews)
In a technologically advanced future, a young boy accidentally activates the strange giant robot his mother piloted before she went missing. He becomes a pilot with only one mission – to find his mother.
Genre: Animation, Action, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi
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KILLING BITES (2018)
6.3 / 10 (based on 569 reviews)
People have been created that are human-animal hybrids, and powerful businesses bet on the outcome of their duels. College student Nomoto Yuuya’s casual friends ask him to drive them around to pick up girls one day, which he soon finds out means kidnapping. Little did they know the girl they kidnapped was a human-animal hybrid.
Genre: Animation, Action, Sci-Fi
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1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
In the world of anime, where genres blend and boundaries are often pushed to their limits, “UFO Princess Walkure,” also known as “UFO Ultramaiden Valkyrie,” stands out as a unique concoction of science fiction, comedy, and a dash of romance. Released in 2002, this series has carved its niche, attracting fans who appreciate its quirky humor, engaging storyline, and, of course, its distinctive take on Norse mythology reimagined in a futuristic setting.
The Premise
At its core, “UFO Princess Walkure” is a story about an alien princess, Valkyrie, who crash-lands on Earth and into the life of Kazuto Tokino, a young man who runs a public bathhouse. In a twist of fate, or rather a comedic mishap, Valkyrie transforms into a child after she saves Kazuto’s life using her powers. The series follows their adventures as they navigate the chaos her presence brings, not just in Kazuto’s life but also in the entire town.
Characters and Dynamics
Main Duo
- Valkyrie: Initially, she might seem like your typical fish-out-of-water character, but Valkyrie’s childlike innocence combined with the powers of a goddess makes her an unforgettable lead. Her dual nature, flipping between a child and her true, more mature form, adds layers to her character and her relationship with Kazuto.
- Kazuto Tokino: The everyman protagonist, Kazuto, is the anchor of the series. His reactions to the absurdities around him are both relatable and a source of humor. His kindness and sense of responsibility towards Valkyrie provide a heartwarming aspect to the show.
Supporting Cast
The series doesn’t skimp on the supporting cast, each bringing their own quirks to the table: – Rika Tokino: Kazuto’s sister, who is often exasperated by the bizarre events but stands as a pillar of support. – Hydra: A warrior princess from Valhalla who initially comes to Earth to bring Valkyrie back but ends up becoming part of the gang. – Sanada: Valkyrie’s loyal maid, whose devotion leads to comedic, often over-the-top scenarios.
Themes and Tone
“UFO Princess Walkure” balances its comedic and fantastical elements with themes of love, friendship, and the importance of family (both blood-related and chosen). The show doesn’t shy away from the absurd, often diving headfirst into situations that defy logic, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a series that knows not to take itself too seriously, inviting viewers to enjoy the ride without overthinking the plot mechanics.
Visuals and Soundtrack
The animation, typical of early 2000s anime, has a certain nostalgic charm today. The character designs are distinct, with a clear effort to make the cast visually diverse and memorable. As for the soundtrack, it complements the show’s tone perfectly, with catchy opening and closing themes that encapsulate the series’ blend of sci-fi and fantasy.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, “UFO Princess Walkure” received mixed reviews. Critics were divided on its blend of genres and the use of fan service, a common trope in anime that can be divisive. However, it found a dedicated fanbase that appreciated its humor, characters, and unique premise. Over the years, it has maintained a cult following, with fans still discussing and recommending it in various online forums.
Why Watch “UFO Princess Walkure”?
For those on the fence about diving into this series, here are a few reasons why “UFO Princess Walkure” might just be worth your time:
- Unique Blend of Genres: It’s not often you find a series that combines Norse mythology with sci-fi and slapstick comedy. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, this show delivers.
- Character Dynamics: The evolving relationships and dynamics among the cast provide a compelling reason to keep watching. There’s a genuine warmth to the interactions that adds depth to the comedy.
- Nostalgia Factor: For anime fans who have a soft spot for early 2000s animation and storytelling, “UFO Princess Walkure” offers a delightful trip down memory lane.
- Humor: Simply put, the show is funny. It doesn’t always hit the mark, but when it does, it’s a reminder of how enjoyable anime can be when it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Final Thoughts
“UFO Princess Walkure” is a testament to the creativity and diversity of anime. It’s a series that might not have made waves on the scale of some of its contemporaries, but it has secured a place in the hearts of its fans. Whether it’s the unconventional storyline, the endearing characters, or the sheer unpredictability of each episode, there’s something inherently charming about this show.
In a landscape often dominated by series that stick to tried-and-tested formulas, “UFO Princess Walkure” stands out for its willingness to be different. It’s a reminder that sometimes, all you need for an engaging story is a bit of imagination and a willingness to embrace the absurd. So, if you’re in the mood for an anime that blends humor, heart, and a touch of Norse mythology, “UFO Princess Walkure” might just be the show for you.