Meiji Gekken: 1874

As a history buff, I especially enjoy anime that incorporates Japanese history. This rich past provides a treasure trove of stories that come alive through animation, making them even more engaging. Shows like Golden Kamuy, by the manga creator Satoru Noda, and The Heike Story, a modern take on Hideo Furukawa's classic The Tale of the Heike, are prime examples of anime that effectively use historical elements as the foundation for their narratives. Throughout its history, Japan has been a stage for countless battles, both within its borders and abroad. These conflicts have given rise to legendary stories spanning many eras, such as those surrounding the Meiji Restoration of 1868 and beyond.

This anime, a leftover from Crunchyroll's initial Originals announcement in 2020, was originally planned to combine Japanese and Western animation styles. However, Crunchyroll's Originals branding became known for failing to deliver on its promises, and this show went through multiple studios before landing at the small Tsumugi Akita Animation Lab. This studio primarily does digital animation work, and while Meiji Gekken might have caused some delays in their other projects, it seems they were still able to complete it.