Yuzuru Tachikawa's "DECA-DENCE" (anime TV series)

Review by Dennis D. McDonald

At first I found Deca-Dence hard to follow.

The unwary watcher (such as myself) must be forgiven for confusing the story with something like Mortal Engines. Much of it takes place in a giant mobile city traversing a barren post-apocalyptic world. Eventually we realize we’re seeing a story play out where digital avatars look human and the “real“ characters — or players — are cartoon-like video game characters. 

The virtual world we follow is one were “humans“ live in constant conflict with giant insect like monsters. Battles with these monsters are deadly but must take place for that is the source of the giant traveling city’s sustaining energy. 

What is fascinating about the series is that it has such strong characters, both human and digital. Plus, the visual styles of the two intersecting worlds are totally different.

The human world is traditional anime sprinkled with generous helpings of CGI. The cartoon like player world is populated by goofy creatures who observe the antics of the “human“ world. 

Eventually the two worlds collide but not until we observe very strong character building on both sides as well as funny takes on recognizable manga and anime characters. 

It all sounds very derivative and goofy when described like this but the story, characters, and direction are very strong.

One series I would compare this with is GARGANTIA ON THE VERDUROUS PLANET. They both have strong, plucky young female lead characters, they make extensive use of machines and technology, and they show that a lot of thought that has gone into detailed world building. Recommended!

Review copyright (c) 2022 by Dennis D. McDonald