The Shinsei Galverse NFT project is making waves with its upcoming anime, and the excitement just amplified with the announcement of its initial cast. This unique project, born from a successful NFT collection, is set to debut this summer, bringing a fresh perspective to the anime scene by blending nostalgic ’90s aesthetics with modern Web3 technology. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting reveal.
What is Shinsei Galverse?
Shinsei Galverse began as an NFT project featuring 8,888 unique “Gals” who are described as “badass Gals shooting across time and space to make the galaxy a better place.” The project quickly gained traction, becoming Japan’s first major Web3 success. All 8,888 NFTs sold out within hours of their release in April 2022, securing the top spot on OpenSea’s NFT rankings.
The team behind Shinsei Galverse aims to create an iconic IP by developing an original anime. This anime isn’t just a typical adaptation; it’s deeply integrated with its community. NFT holders can participate in the anime’s development, contributing ideas and creative works. This collaborative approach, dubbed “WAGMAA” (We’re Gonna Make An Anime), allows fans to influence character outfits, planet names, and even marketing concepts.
Anime Staff and Production
The Shinsei Galverse anime is being produced by S.o.K, with Ayaka Ōhira, the founder of Shinsei Galverse, serving as the creator and chief director. Yūta Takamura, known for his work on JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Diamond Is Unbreakable and The Most Notorious “Talker” Runs the World’s Greatest Clan, is co-directing. The scripts are being penned by Natsuko Takahashi (Tokyo Magnitude 8.0, My Love Story!!, Anne Shirley) and Masahiro Okubo (Cardfight!! Vanguard overDress, Cardfight!! Vanguard will+Dress).
The character designs are in the capable hands of Satoshi Ishino (Puni Puni Poemy, Tokyo Mew Mew New), with Momo Nagayama as the sub-character designer. Ryō Hirata is designing the props, while Yang Liu (Ogura Kobo) is creating the background art, and Miyoko Ichinose is the color key artist. The compositing director of photography is Tsai Po Lun, and Kentarō Tsubone is the editor. Jin Aketagawa is the sound director, with Tsutomu Ueno credited for sound effects. ARCH is credited as the producer.
The Newly Announced Cast
The anime is set to debut this summer and the initial cast members have been revealed. The cast includes:
- Yui Horie as Zero
- Ai Fairouz as D.D.
- Mutsumi Tamura as Ring
- Kurumi Nakata as Tabia
- Hisako Kanemoto as Vega
- Lynn as Momo
- Ikue Ōtani as Ran Ran
Yui Horie as Zero
Yui Horie, a veteran voice actress, will be voicing Zero. Horie is known for her roles as Riko Izayoi / Cure Magical in Mahoutsukai Precure!, Tsubasa Hanekawa in the Monogatari series, and Sophia B. Tokito in HIGHSPEED Étoile.
Ai Fairouz as D.D.
Ai Fairouz will be lending her voice to the character D.D. Fairouz is well-recognized for her roles as Jolyne Cujoh in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean and Cure Summer in Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure.
Mutsumi Tamura as Ring
Mutsumi Tamura will be voicing Ring. Tamura’s notable roles include Beelzebub in SAND LAND and Yukiya in The Crow Does Not Choose Its Master, York from ONE PIECE: Egghead Arc.
Kurumi Nakata as Tabia
Kurumi Nakata is set to voice Tabia. Nakata’s previous works include Yoko Ikewaki in Brush Up Life, Kochou in Kumokiri Nizaemon 6, and Kei Kosugi in 1122: A Good Couple.
Hisako Kanemoto as Vega
Hisako Kanemoto will be bringing Vega to life. Kanemoto is known for her roles as Boko in GAMERA -Rebirth-, Ami Mizuno / Sailor Mercury in Sailor Moon Crystal, and Djeeta in Granblue Fantasy.
Lynn as Momo
Lynn is set to voice Momo. Lynn is recognized for her roles as Noel in Celestial Method, Gugu in To Your Eternity, and Mafuyu Kirisu in We Never Learn: BOKUBEN.
Ikue Ōtani as Ran Ran
Ikue Ōtani will be lending her voice to the character Ran Ran. Ōtani is a legendary voice actress, best known as the voice of Pikachu in Pokémon, Tony Tony Chopper in One Piece, and Morgana in Persona 5.
What Makes Shinsei Galverse Unique?
Shinsei Galverse distinguishes itself through its unique blend of elements:
- NFT Origins: Originating from a successful NFT project gives it a built-in community and a novel approach to anime production.
- Nostalgic Aesthetics: Inspired by ’80s and ’90s magical girl and cyberpunk anime, it offers a nostalgic visual experience.
- Web3 Integration: By incorporating Web3 technology and community participation, it aims to create a new paradigm for anime creation and distribution.
- Empowering Themes: The story explores themes of anti-war sentiments, identity, and self-discovery, adding depth to its narrative.
- Diverse Representation: The Galverse’s characters boast a wide array of traits, promoting inclusivity and challenging conventional anime portrayals.
A New Era for Anime?
Shinsei Galverse represents a fascinating intersection of anime, NFT technology, and community-driven creation. Its success could pave the way for new funding models and creative processes in the anime industry. By engaging its community in the development process and exploring profound themes, Shinsei Galverse aims to offer a unique and meaningful anime experience. As the anime gears up for its summer debut, it’s definitely one to watch for those interested in the future of anime and the potential of Web3 integration.