Babel II

Babel II, a 2001 anime series originated from Japan and released through Gong network, is the result of fresh-years anime reimagining of the 70s show of the same name, which is in turn based on a manga by Mitsuteru Yokoyama - a name well known in the manga world for being one of the original founders of the manga genre.

Babel II is an enthralling blend of science fiction, supernatural elements and action that ignites viewer’s imagination and excitement. It sparks an exhilarating sense of intrigue through its good versus evil narrative, filled with unexpected turn of events, strange mysteries and chilling surprises.

The narrative arcs around Koichi, a seemingly ordinary high school student. However, his average teenage life drastically changes once he gets struck by a vision of his other self in a different time and space. This experience unravels a secret identity – he is revealed to be the direct descendant of the mystic entity called Babel II, the controller of an ancient and powerful psychic tower called the Tower of Babel.

Guided by an extraordinary and enigmatic psychic parrot named Yomi, the once ordinary teenager embraces his destined role, stepping into his forgotten legacy. Yomi instructs Koichi on his newfound psychic and spiritual powers that surpass human's comprehensible boundaries. He soon acquires power over three faithful and powerful servants Rodem, a shapeshifting panther, Poseidon, a robotic warrior, and Ropross, a dragon entity. Together, they possess a strength that could either save the world or destroy it.

The narrative unfolds further around the tower. The Tower of Babel is an interdimensional hub, a structure representing ultimate power and wisdom, and a keep of unknown otherworldly entities. It is not just a physical entity but also a nodal point of many dimensions, and harnessing its power could lead to unimaginable consequences.

However, this extraordinary power and the control over the legendary tower does not go unnoticed by an ominous organization called the Parasytes, who is out to take over the world. Intent on seizing Koichi's powers and the Tower for their malignant designs, the Parasytes send a variety of spectral creatures and malevolent psychics to deal with Koichi and his allies.

The show then embarks on this epic battle between good and evil, throwing in captivating showdowns, suspense-filled scenarios, and deep, evolving character plots. Babel II shines in its portrayal of individual character arcs, especially the journey of Koichi as he grapples with his dual existence, evolving from an innocent high school student to a formidable psychic warrior with the weight of the world upon his shoulders.

Furthermore, Babel II does not shy away from exploring the abstract concepts like time, space, and multidimensional existences, adding layers to its narratives while keeping the viewers hooked with its riveting plot.

While constantly walking on the tightrope of tense narrative, Babel II is well complemented by its skilled animation. The art style and imagery breathe life into the show, making it visually appealing and dynamic. The series does an excellent job of transcribing the manga's visuals to animated form, capturing that essence in great detail.

Babel II also boasts of a brilliant sound design. It supplements the surreal and thrilling experience of the show perfectly with its thoughtfully chosen, music, sound effects and voice acting, intensifying the drama and creating immersive atmospheres.

The show, though a gem in itself, might be slightly overwhelming for viewers unaccustomed to the amalgamation of multiple genres. However, for fans of Yokoyama's world, enthusiasts of intense science fiction thrillers, or for anyone searching for an extraordinary journey that transcends time, space, and ordinary existence, Babel II is indeed a must-watch.

Babel II’s saga is a unique voyage that promises suspense, surprise, and spectacle. It is a classic refrain of power and responsibility wrapped in a blanket of high-action sequences, an intriguing narrative and multifaceted characters. The 2001 reimagining of this timeless classic certainly holds its own and is definitely worth a watch for anime lovers of all ages.