Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scrolls

Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scrolls is a thrilling anime series that first premiered on the BS11 network in 2018. Embedded in the dynamic world of ninjas, the show beautifully encapsulates an enthralling blend of traditional Japanese culture, fierce action scenes, gripping storytelling, and spellbinding suspense. It is based upon Masaki Yamada's sequel novel of "The Kouga Ninja Scrolls," which was also the foundation of the predecessor anime "Basilisk: The Kouga Ninja Scrolls."

The plot of Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scrolls is set 10 years after the horrifying massacre which took place in the original series and tells a story of revenge, bloody rivalry, and cruel fate. It presents a new generation of young, highly skilled ninjas who carry the burden of their own past along with the ambition of writing their own destinies. These ninjas are born into horrifying, brutal circumstances, where the idea of survival of the fittest rules supreme, leading to a plot packed with powerful emotional content.

In the new era of this universe, Kōga and Iga, the treacherous ninja clans are replaced by two new ones, named Kouga Hachirou and Iga Hibiki. These protagonists are descendants of the original Kōga and Iga clans, who are trying to discover their place in a conflicted world. They are young, fearless, and have been bestowed with tremendous abilities. Both Hachirou and Hibiki, along with their followers, are destined to participate in a grand tournament, a fatal event that decides the nature of their future.

While the prior series was grounded in the Sengoku period, a civil war akin setting, Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scrolls adopts a fresh backdrop. The narrative shifts dramatically, moving into the more peaceful Edo period. While this peacefulness is quite conspicuous at first glance, behind the tranquility lurks a relentless storm, creating an unpredictable ambiance of constant tension, and perpetuating the ninja battles' brutality.

Apart from the tantalizing plot, the show shines brightly through its characters. Each character is distinct and complex, with their own unique skill-set. This aspect adds another level of depth to the show, and makes it much more engaging and appealing to the audience. The series primarily relies on the strategic convergence of mind games and supernatural abilities, each enhancing the attributes and relevancy of the characters within the story. The characterizations are thus a blend of ruthlessness, nobility, honor, duty, and desperation, all deeply anchored in the cultural roots of ninja society.

The viewers come across a cleverly woven tale that makes them witness the art of war, interspersed with philosophy, from the sidelines. This aspect gives the series an edge over many of its contemporaries, for it infuses intricacy into its narrative, rendering layer upon layer of meaning to its story. Furthermore, it often raises questions about honor, love, rivalry, vengeance and duty, compelling the audience to ponder these themes outside of the screen.

Reflecting its deep and intricate plot, the animation and design execution is equally impressive. Elegant representation of the Edo period, grand palaces, lush landscapes and vivid portrayals of ninja battles are commendably detailed and mesmerizing to watch. The character designs are remarkable and align with their roles and personalities.

In addition to the aesthetic elements, the soundtrack of Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scrolls deserves praise. An embodiment of Japanese traditional music intermixed with balanced modern tunes amplifies the narrative's intensity, adding further dimension and emotional depth to the series.

Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scrolls is more than a mere sequel of an acclaimed anime. It stands on its own merit, taking viewers on an unforgettable journey through time and space, the human spirit, and a stark depiction of social and tribal norms. It's a fresh outlook on the world of Basilisk that, while honors its predecessor, never fails to forge its unique narrative path. This makes it a must-watch for fans of the original series and newcomers alike who have a fondness for historical conflict, strategy, complex characters, supernatural elements, and breathtaking action.