Shonen Soar’s The Elusive Samurai is extensively thought-about to be one of the crucial stunning and delightful anime debuts of summer season 2024. The collection is thought for its beautiful animation, vibrant colours, and various solid of characters whose humor balances the extraordinary violence of the historic Kenmu Restoration interval.

Nonetheless, there was criticism of the animation high quality in episode #4, and related points arose in episode #5.

The elusive samurai is criticizedThe elusive samurai is criticized
The Elusive Samurai (Credit: Yusei Matsui and Shueisha)

The Elusive Samurai rapidly gained recognition after its first episode, growing demand for Yusei Matsui’s authentic manga. The collection has been praised for its visuals, together with a cinematic presentation and an animation fashion that emphasizes motion, leading to lovely battles and a cheerful really feel even throughout chaotic scenes.

Regardless of introducing widespread characters corresponding to Suwa Yorishige, the collection’ use of CGI in episodes 4 and 5 is notable, with some viewers discovering it disappointing in comparison with the collection’ historically elegant animation.

Blended reactions about animation high quality and effectiveness

Whereas CGI can be utilized successfully in anime, its presence in these episodes contrasts with the collection’ standard swish and artistic dealing with of motion, corresponding to in Tokiyuki’s intense battle with Muneshige Godaiin. Nonetheless, the usage of CGI within the archery problem between Tokiyuki and Sadamune, which takes place in a confined area with shifting targets, is considerably comprehensible.

As customers on X focus on the episode, they spotlight each constructive and destructive elements of the animation. It’s honest to say that this animation sequence was troublesome or unrealistic to realize utilizing conventional strategies. On the constructive facet, the animation options robust modeling and efficient POV pictures.

The elusive samurai is criticizedThe elusive samurai is criticized
The Elusive Samurai (Credit: Yusei Matsui and Shueisha)

Nonetheless, it does have its drawbacks, corresponding to flat backgrounds and lifeless 3D motion. Some customers discover this method jarring, with one evaluating it to “being kicked within the face by a horse,” particularly contemplating how effectively 3D CG can work in exhibits like Kengan Ashura.

Uncertainty surrounding future use of 3D CG after combined reactions

It’s unclear whether or not 3D CG will probably be used once more. It has been utilized in conditions the place conventional strategies might need resulted in static or uninteresting pictures. Episode #5 of The Elusive Samurai ends the archery problem and returns to conventional animation, elevating questions on whether or not related adjustments will happen sooner or later.

Fortuitously, 3D CG remains to be uncommon within the collection and never as prevalent as in different movie diversifications, corresponding to Berserk. Poor 3D CG has led many to argue that it might be higher left unadapted.

The elusive samurai is criticizedThe elusive samurai is criticized
The Elusive Samurai (Credit: Yusei Matsui and Shueisha)

Contemplating the collection’ various and thrilling battle scenes, together with an exciting chase in episode #6, it’s comprehensible that followers, particularly newcomers, can be involved. The Elusive Samurai is usually robust sufficient to maintain viewers engaged past the primary three episodes, although moments like this may be unsettling.

Using 3D CG on this case is a small however noticeable drawback, a lot much less irritating than ready for enhancements over a number of seasons, as with different anime.