The original Gunbuster, or Top o Nerae! Gunbuster, is a classic, it was very much in the tradition of the then current space opera and sci-fi anime of the time. The uniqueness of that series was that was just a setting, not related to any of the themes such as love, war, friendship, and personal growth. It was animated life with more giant robots than usual.
Well, it has been around 20 years or so, and it has taken Top o Nerae 2! aka Diebuster, to finish its run. Was it good? Yes! Fans may wonder how this likes up to its original, and for once a sequel is actually comparable. The series structure of having a story of personal relationships amidst the backdrop of a space war with an invincible insectoid enemy is still here. Also is the fanservice. Heh.
There are a great many things to appreciate that make Diebuster stand out on its own as well. The primary one being the gorgeous visuals. It is very reminiscent of Re:Cutey Honey. Possibly what one can expect from Gainax for years to come, as well as being a far cry for its prior series Neon Genesis Evangelion.
Music is good, as are effects and pacing. Characters too are solid, this is character oriented after all, but there is one little hitch. There is an almost need to have seen Gunbuster as there are subtle elements of Diebuster that will be incomprehensible without seeing the original, new fans however should not be discouraged, the connection, though not as subtle as one would like, does not completely hamper the enjoyment of the show.
Top o Nerae 2! Diebuster is a great series, one that I can see fans looking back on and considering the two series together as one unified classic. It is a worthy follow up. Take a chance. Go watch.
