Spriggan (2022)

Spriggan (2022) is an exhilarating, action-packed anime series from Netflix that draws from the realms of mythology, history, and high-stakes adventure. Based on the popular 90's manga series of the same name by Hiroshi Takashige and Ryoji Minagawa, this anime reboot is a dive into an intriguing world fraught with world-ending artifacts, mysterious organizations, and elite operatives known as Spriggans.

The premise of the series revolves around Yu Ominae, our protagonist, who is a high school student by day and, by night, a highly trained agent working for the secret organization ARCAM Corporation. As a Spriggan, Yu is charged with the dangerous and globe-trotting task of locating and securing ancient artifacts that hold the potential to destroy the world. These artifacts, products of an advanced ancient civilization, are often situated in treacherous locations, guarded by deadly traps, or in the crosshairs of rival factions that seek to misuse such power for their own nefarious goals.

Indeed, the stakes are high in the world of Spriggan. The ARCAM Corporation is engaged in a covert war with other secretive groups – from multinational corporations to religious cults, all thirsty for world domination and willing to bend the destructive power of these artifacts to their will. In this cut-throat race, the Spriggans serve as humanity's last line of defense, combining survival skills, stratagem, scientific knowledge, and combat prowess to outwit their enemies and protect the world.

Yu Ominae, in particular, stands out with his indomitable spirit, martial arts expertise, and a special suit that augments his physical abilities. He is a complex character with a multilayered personal history and a deep sense of duty, which makes him a compelling figure as he navigates a world teetering on the brink of disaster. He battles rival forces that range from cybernetically enhanced operatives to supernatural entities, exploring ancient ruins, and uncovering secrets that possibly reshape our understanding of human history and civilization as we know it.

In terms of animation and visual style, Spriggan (2022) strikes a balance between traditional anime aesthetics and modern animation techniques. The series offers vivid, carefully detailed landscapes that span from bustling urban settings to dense jungles and ancient ruins. It isn't shy about showcasing action either, presenting it in an intense and elaborate style that remains faithful to the manga's roots while integrating contemporary CGI effects. Each episode promises and delivers high-octane action, often peppered with surprising dramatic twists.

Despite the heavy undertone of world-ending threats and relentless action, the series doesn't lose touch with its characters' human aspects. Amidst the dizzying action and adventure, Spriggan delves into nuanced themes of friendship, morality, and the responsibility that comes with power.

With the backing of Netflix and David Production, the studio behind 'Jojo's Bizarre Adventure', the series boasts high production values and an international reach. It also stays true to the original manga while making necessary changes to suit the current anime-viewing audience, making it an exciting watch for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.

In the end, Spriggan (2022) is a compelling blend of archaeology, history, science fiction, and high-stakes action. It's a series that compels viewers to ponder the mysteries of the past and their potential implications for our future, all while delivering a thrilling spectacle. For fans of adventurous anime with an underlying sense of intrigue and cosmic peril, Spriggan is definitely worth watching.