A Certain Scientific Railgun
Toaru Kagaku no Railgun
[Full Review]
J. C. Staff
Objective Score: 8.5
Personal Score: 9
Season 1 (24), S (24), & T (25)
Times Watched: 1
Sci-Fi, Action, Drama, Mystery
Awards: 3x3, Seal of Approval
Recent Changes: n/a
A Certain Scientific Railgun was one of those series that I wanted to get into for a long time. I’m not sure what attracted me to the series in the first place, but out of the Toaru shows, I first started with Railgun, and boy am I glad I did. A Certain Scientific Railgun has some of the best world-building I’ve ever seen. Splitting the series into shows that focus on different aspects of the world (magic and science) is super unique, and for the most part I think they pulled it off. From the powers, to the concepts, to the city itself, this is seriously one of the most fleshed-out worlds I’ve ever experienced. What’s more is that all the powers in the show have clearly defined rules and limitations, which makes it especially satisfying to follow along as a viewer. For a story I believe is supposed to be intended for a younger audience, there are some quite mature elements like blood and gore, unethical science, and interesting high concepts. The characters in Railgun are also a step above the rest. Misaka is probably my favorite anime protagonist. Not only is her electromaster power cool, but when faced with the overwhelming presence of an increasingly sadistic city, she does everything in her power to protect as much as possible. It’s exhilarating to watch her struggle, because you know she’s giving it her all. Misaka might steal the show, but the side characters are just as amazing. Kuroko, while annoying sometimes, is in the same class as Misaka for how much she is willing to go through to save the day. Even Uiharu and Saten are fleshed-out into interesting characters that bounce off each other, and other espers, in fun ways. The visuals in Railgun are nothing to scoff at. While not as impressive as other shows, the smooth animation, vibrant colors, and interesting powers makes Railgun a treat for the eyes. The sound design is also deep and rich, and the techno music is not only thematically brilliant, but bops so hard. The voice actors are also doing an amazing job. Everything about the show, from the excellent visuals, to the amazing storytelling, to the infinitely lovable and complex characters, all are made more impressive by the longevity of the show’s consistency. The few problems I have with the show, mainly the oversexualization of very young girls and the dragging of some of the plot, can be a turn off for some, but I found to be easily overlooked. The Toaru series has quickly become one of my favorite long-running/multi-series anime, and Railgun stands at the top of it all.