“SCAVENGERS REIGN” (animated series)
A series review by Dennis D. McDonald
Key points:
Grim.
Superb character design and voice acting.
Wildly imaginative alien world building.
Evocative & dramatic musical score.
Creative though improbable alien creatures and vegetation.
Sophisticated storyline and pacing.
Did I mention "Grim"?
The only real problem I had was with the robot’s design. I can't imagine engineering such a complex mobile device with such a high center of gravity and such spindly legs. I realize that centuries from now metallurgy and materials science will have advanced dramatically but I was constantly expecting the thing to tip over.
That said, as a science-fiction survival tale, this one hits the ball out of the park. The multi-character road trip of the story provides the series creators with a convenient framework while periodic flashbacks help explain character backstory. After a time the constant introduction of weird or dangerous flora and fauna becomes exhausting but does provide an effective canvas for the serious and dramatically effective character building.
Are any of the characters really likable? Not really, but it's hard not to identify with them as they face one alien challenge after another. Voice acting and facial expressions are some of the most sophisticated I've seen in 2D style animation that relies heavily on straightforward line drawings.
Some might be put off by the pacing, which is quite deliberate as we follow multiple characters and observe how they respond and attempt to overcome the trials and tribulations thrown at them by an inhospitable alien world.
How do they adjust? We don't find out till the very end. If you do decide to watch Scavengers Reign, don't expect a warm and fuzzy payoff. Do expect a fascinating, challenging, and artistically superb SF story with grim story elements.
Review copyright © 2023 by Dennis D. McDonald