BlazBlue: Alter Memory

BlazBlue: Alter Memory, released in 2013 by FUNimation, is an intense and complex animated series that derives its origins from the popular BlazBlue video game franchise. The television adaptation brings the game's vibrant characters and unique storyline to life with equally impressive motion graphics and animation quality that would meet the expectations of the game's fans as well as newcomers.

The story takes audiences into an elaborately constructed universe, known as the "Azure". This dystopian setting is a parallel, timeline waiting to be explored by the viewers with the unfolding of each episode. The anime aims to compress the narrative arc of two full-fledged video games, BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger and BlazBlue: Continuum Shift into a 12-episode sequence, which is an ambitious undertaking by any measure.

The central character is Ragna the Bloodedge, an outlaw with an enormous bounty on his head. Renowned as the most powerful threat to the ruling order, he is feared and respected in equal measure due to his possession of the powerful Azure Grimoire. The vengeful anti-hero is driven by his mission to destroy the Librarium, the system that currently governs the multi-tiered world.

Along his desperate journey, Ragna meets a variety of intriguing characters, some friend, some foe – all of them intricately designed with unique personalities and story arcs. Companions and enemies alike are drawn in by Ragna’s power and converge on him, setting the stage for epic battles and emotional moments. The story is a frantically paced roller coaster, connecting duels and plot points to maintain a high level of dramatic tension throughout.

One of the integral parts of BlazBlue: Alter Memory’s storyline revolves around the mysterious yet charming "Noel Vermillion", a lieutenant of the Novus Orbis Librarium who gets caught up in Ragna’s rebellious crusade. Her relationship with Ragna forms the backbone of the series' storyline and manages to inject a touch of tenderness into the otherwise frenzied narrative.

In addition to Ragna and Noel, the other characters from the original gaming universe such as Jin Kisaragi, Rachel Alucard, and Hazama also make their appearance, each with their own plot developments and significant screen time. They add an extra dimension to the narrative, enriching it with their individual stories, motivations, strengths, and flaws.

BlazBlue: Alter Memory's visuals are breathtaking, with high-action combat sequences brought to life with an explosive use of color. The series uses digital animation to create its complex multilevel landscapes and engaging fight scenes, delivering captivating visual experiences and world-building.

From a moodily lit night cityscape filled with looming, gothic architecture to subterranean tunnels bathed in an eerie glow, the locations are diverse and flawlessly rendered. This provides an engaging backdrop for the anime's kinetic and powerfully choreographed fight scenes. The stellar animation coupled with the dramatic soundtracks render each conflict with a sense of escalating tension, crafting a truly immersive viewing experience.

Fans of the BlazBlue franchise will appreciate the faithful character designs and signature moves ripped straight from the games. Newcomers, too, will be drawn in by the characters’ unique aesthetics and the show's cinematic visual flair. The series, however, requires viewers to invest time and thought into understanding its multilayered plot, which could be considered daunting but also rewarding for those seeking depth and complexity.

BlazBlue: Alter Memory holds the unique position of bridging the gap between the genres of anime and video games. It solidifies the BlazBlue lore, characters, and arcs, making it a must-watch for all fans of the BlazBlue franchise. Simultaneously, its fascinating universe, striking animation, and high-stakes storyline are likely to draw in those new to BlazBlue and keep them hooked until the series' exciting conclusion.