Tetsuwan Birdy Decode Episode 1 Review

     I know that the term underrated ends up being used a lot when talking about, especially older, anime, and the reason for this is not the fact that the actual show hasn't received commendations for its extravagant qualities, but rather that the show in question is merely a mediocre one, and the extravagant quality that it has is merely nostalgia, but under the scope here we take a look at the first episode of the obscure show that barely anyone has nostalgia for.
     Anyways, the show in question is a 26 episode TV remake of the late 90s OVA, which focuses on the rather interesting premise- a female intergalactic officer sharing a body with an average high school boy. This merging happens at the end of this episode, so the question is- does this make this episode dull because we know the outcome? Or why didn't this happen at the beginning of the episode? Thankfully, the answer is no, because Tetsuwan Birdy Decode features a variety of rather interesting and witty characters, especially Birdy (a.k.a Shion) which empathize this light-hearted atmosphere the show successfully conveys. There is always something going on to keep the viewer engaged, despite the fact that we know exactly how the episode is going to end.
     Visuals of the show are rather interesting. Everything is bright, sparkling with digital colors used on the characters, empathized by the watercolor-like style that is used in the background art. The animation is very fluid for a TV animation, especially in the action sequences.  Only thing visually that deserves the mention is the fan-service; Birdy's costume is fairly revealing, and there is a fan-servicy photo shoot at the beginning. While some people might find this to be unnecessary, I find it that it adds to the light-hearted atmosphere the show is going for.
     Music-wise, soundtrack, especially in the action sequences, tends to over-do the feature- orchestral soundtrack gives the impression that this is a serious superhero series, instead of light-hearted comedy the show is aiming to present itself as, but it is not very distracting. Opening and ending themes are great to listen to, as well.
     Overall, Tetsuwan Birdy Decode gives off the impression of a forgotten entertainer with a lot of potentials. This episode provides great motivation to watch the show and endless possibilities for it.

Score breakdown:

Story: B+
Despite the fact that we know the final resolution of the episode, the show finds multiple ways to engage the viewer.

Characters: B
Birdy's personality is a great highlight, while other characters give the stereotypical impression.
Animation: A
Very fluid and well-framed for a TV animation.

Art: A+
Great character designs, interesting use of background art.

Music: B
Orchestral soundtrack tends to over-do the stuff that's going on, but, aside from that the opening and ending themes are great to listen to.

+ Light hearted entertainer with a lot of potential, engaging sci-fi concept.
- Fan-service can be off-putting, a lot of characters seem to have the depth of cardboard.