Shirogane no Ishi Argevollen

Shirogane no Ishi Argevollen, often shortened to Argevollen, is a captivating mecha anime television series, conceptualized and produced by Xebec which aired on Tokyo MX in 2014. Set within a sprawling imaginary continent named Arandas and Ingelmia, two nations locked in ongoing, intense warfare, Argevollen showcases a combination of highly gripping storytelling, mature character development, and awe-inspiring mecha warfare. The show is set in a world where technology is relatively primitive, and giant humanoid war machines, known as Trail Kriegers, serve as the primary weapons of war.

The series is centred around its protagonist, Tokimune Susumu, an impulsive and empathetic young mecha pilot who always values human life and will go to extreme lengths to protect his squad and civilians. Having joined the Arandas military to find the truth behind his sister's death, he soon gets thrust into the heart of the war. Tokimune's military career and life take a drastic turn when he comes across an advanced, experimental Trail Krieger named Argevollen.

The Argevollen is different from any other mechas in the show. It’s an exception in a world of relatively unimpressive mechas that carry a more realistic appearance and capabilities. It’s technologically superior, with a sleeker design, advanced AI, and exceptional performance on the battlefield.

While Shirogane no Ishi Argevollen contains many of the classic tropes that fans of the mecha genre expect, it differentiates itself from contemporaries by shifting focus from larger-than-life mecha battles to the psychological and emotional impact of warfare on individuals. Through the personal trials and tribulations of its characters, the series presents a realistic representation of soldiers caught in a war they didn't initiate and asked to fight.

The series also doesn't shy away from political commentary. The narrative often touches upon themes of corporate influence in warfare, where war is seen as a profitable enterprise. These complex themes and narratives are skilfully woven into the character's journeys and the larger overarching plot of the war, lending the series a depth and maturity that is often lacking in the mecha genre.

However, the show also provides enough mecha battles to enthrall fans of this genre. The mecha designs in Argevollen are unique and relatively realistic compared to many other mecha anime. The series avoids over-the-top, super-robot-like models and maintains a militaristic touch to the designs.

Argevollen offers a rich array of characters who make the series captivating, and it's their personal journeys of growth and development that provide the series with a strong emotional core. Whether it's the recklessly brave protagonist Tokimune, or the wily tactician Commander Samonji, or the cool and intelligent engineer Jamie Hazaford, the series devotes significant time to character development, often prioritizing this over extravagant mecha battles.

The animation and art of Argevollen are visually appealing and remarkably consistent. The action sequences involving the mechas are smooth and fluid, with a sense of weight to their movements that lend a sense of realism. The design of the armed machines is grounded, focusing on the realistic mechanisms of operating and maneuvering these giant war-machines, which greatly compliments the heavily realistic themes and the feel of the series.

The music and sound direction are well-executed, creating engaging ambience during episodes. Whether it's the subtle tension in quiet scenes or the fiery mayhem of the battlefield, the soundtrack complements the visuals seamlessly and enhances the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, Shirogane no Ishi Argevollen is a thoughtfully crafted series that balances thrilling mecha combat action with deep emotional storylines and complex themes. Grounded in realism, the series differentiates itself from the standard mecha genre and offers a fresh perspective that’s more reflective of real warfare. Coupled with its interesting roster of characters, a unique setting, and high production values, Argevollen is an intriguing watch for lovers of the genre and beyond.