Several trailers for upcoming mecha productions dropped in the last couple of weeks, and I wasn’t able to check them out since I was on vacation. But now that I’m back, it’s time for more unsolicited thoughts, this time for the upcoming Grendizer reimagined series Grendizer U. First, let’s check out the new trailer they’ve dropped.
It appears that Grendizer U will pick up right after the events of Mazinger Z, though I’m inclined to think that this is an alternate version of the events of the original series given that we should be seeing Great Mazinger if we follow the original canon. They’ve previously revealed that Koji Kabuto will have a prominent role in this series, but it also seems that Sakaya Yumi will be here as well.
Animation-wise, the characters look okay though I’m sold on the mecha animation since it looks good and while being CG, it’s not as jarring as something you would see five to ten years ago. Speaking of mecha, the official site has also been updated with new profiles.
We’ve already seen Grendizer previously though they’ve now added its other half, the Spazer unit. It more or less has the same design as the original but with some modern elements like the additional pylons for the saucers on its wings.
We also have a look at the Grendizer U version of Mazinger Z. Compared to the original, this version seems to have some elements of the Shin Mazinger Z version and has more gold trim seen on the joints. The heat sinks on its chest are a lot more curved and actually remind me of Energer Z, also from Shin Mazinger Z. Its Jet Scrander also has a proportionally wider wingspan. Lastly, the Hover Pilder is now white compared to the red of the original.
Overall, I’m glad that we’re still getting a semi-constant influx of remakes for these classic super robot titles. Whether it’s the conclusion of a story for 2021’s Getter Robo Arc, or a live-action remake for the Philippine-produced Voltes V: Legacy, or a reimagining with Grendizer U. I’m also looking forward to the kind of merch we’ll get for this series. I’m betting on Good Mecha Smile and their MODEROID line, but we’ll just have to wait.
Grendizer U is slated for broadcast in 2024 but with no specific dates as of yet.
