Reader’s Question:
Is “Soukyuu no Fafner” not as popular or well-known compared to “Gundam SEED”? Or is there a huge difference in their recognition?
Comparing “Soukyuu no Fafner” and “Gundam SEED”: A Personal Take
You know, it’s interesting to think about how certain anime series carve out their own niches in the
vast landscape of fandom. I mean, when you mention “Gundam SEED,” it’s like throwing a rock into a pond—the ripples of its popularity are still felt today. But then there’s “Soukyuu no Fafner,” quietly making its mark, yet often overshadowed by the massive Gundam franchise. I remember the first time I watched “Fafner.” I was at a friend’s place, and we had ordered way too much pizza—like, we thought we were feeding an army when it was really just the two of us. We were halfway through the second pizza when we decided to pop in the first episode. There’s something about the way “Fafner” tackles its themes that just pulled me in. It has this intricate storytelling that feels deeply personal, whereas “Gundam SEED” often gets tangled up in its own universe and politics. Now, don’t get me wrong—”Gundam SEED” has its merits and a huge fanbase, but what I found fascinating is that some people can be pretty vocal about their dislike for it, especially since it’s part of such a longstanding franchise. My friend and I joked about how “Fafner” feels like that indie film you stumble upon at a small theater—it might not have the big budget or the flashy marketing, but it pulls at your heartstrings in a way that resonates deeply. On a side note, I’ve always appreciated the character design in both series. It’s like meeting an old friend when you see the familiar style, yet the stories take you to different worlds. The fact that the character designer for “Fafner” is the same as “Gundam SEED” is a neat connection, but the narrative styles are quite different. And let’s not forget about the scriptwriter, Urobuchi Gen, who has his own dedicated following. His work adds a unique flavor to “Fafner” that’s hard to replicate. Sometimes, I think about how the popularity of a series can change over time. Maybe “Fafner” isn’t as mainstream, but it definitely has a loyal fanbase that appreciates its originality. It’s like finding that hidden gem of a restaurant that doesn’t have the flashy sign but serves the best food you’ve ever tasted. So, what about you? Have you ever stumbled upon an anime that you felt deserved more recognition than it got? I’d love to hear your experiences and any recommendations you might have! Let’s chat in the comments!
