Saint Seiya

Saint Seiya, also known as Knights of the Zodiac, is a renowned Japanese anime television series that originally aired on TV Asahi from 1986 to 1989. This classic anime was based on the manga of the same name, penned by extraordinary mangaka Masami Kurumada. The story is set in an imaginative world representing the mix of modern settings and Greek mythology.

At the heart of the series are five mystical warriors, the 'Saints', who make a coalition named the 'Knights of the Zodiac'. They serve the Greek goddess Athena in her battle against other Olympian gods who aim to dominate Earth. The Saints derive their strength from their mystical armor known as 'Cloths', with each Saint associated with a specific constellation.

Seiya, the titular character, is a Saint who represents the Pegasus constellation. This fiery youngster was introduced in an orphanage alongside his four other friends. After being separated for years to train as Saints, they reunite as young warriors. Together, they pledge their lives to protect Saori Kido, the reincarnated form of Goddess Athena, and the entirety of humanity from ancient and looming evil threats.

One remarkable feature of Saint Seiya is the compelling 'Cosmo' concept, an inner spiritual essence residing within every living being. A Saint draws power from his Cosmo to perform superhuman feats. The series took an interesting perspective on Cosmo, symbolizing it as the seventh sense, 'the essence of the universe,' which when awakened could elevate humans to a god-like status.

The narrative structure of Saint Seiya is distinct, with a captivating progression divided into multiple arcs, each of which introduces new enemies, settings, and conflicts. The plot seamlessly incorporates diverse mythologies, including elements from Norse myths, Arthurian legends, and various other Eastern and Western mythologies, adding a rich layer to the narrative.

The visuals of Saint Seiya are largely representative of the 80s anime style with detailed character designs and vivid color palettes. The show's animation shines during the battle sequences, transforming simple fights into extraordinary performances that showcase the characters' powers and abilities.

Saint Seiya's music, created by Seiji Yokoyama, is another standout feature. The dramatic orchestral scores beautifully blend with the theme of the anime, enhancing its grandeur and theatricality. The signature intro named 'Pegasus Fantasy' still stands as an emblem of classic anime music.

The characters are another highlight of the series. Each Saint possesses a distinct personality, fleshed-out backstory, and individual arcs that make them memorable. The bond between the main characters and their collective growth through the series gradients from mere companionship to unbreakable brotherhood and trust. Additionally, the series does not falter in portraying its antagonists, adding depth and relatability to their motives, making them equally engaging.

Even the detailed and intricate design of the Saint armors that the characters don gives them unique identities. The armors reflect their associated constellations, allowing them to unleash distinct abilities and attacks. As the series progresses, these armors evolve in both appearance and power, keeping up the sense of progression.

Saint Seiya effectively combines action-packed sequences with emotional dramas, resulting in a series that maintains a balance between breathless spectacle and thematic depth. It delves into complex themes like friendship, destiny, sacrifice, perseverance, and the eternal battle between good and evil with aplomb.

In many ways, Saint Seiya has shared a significant contribution to the standards of shonen anime with its creative premises, heartfelt character development and evolution, strategic battle sequences, and a fascinating blend of myth and reality. It has left an indelible mark on the anime industry and continues to garner a dedicated fan base.

Though the series concluded in the late 80s, its popularity led to several sequel and prequel spin-offs, reviving the magic of the original series for newer audiences. So, whether you're a fan of classic anime or new to the genre, Saint Seiya offers a captivating tale of mythical warriors that's likely to entertain and enjoy.