In a time when nearly even franchise is latching onto the remake craze, it´s more than reasonable feeling skeptical when a remake of a beloved or niche series gets announced. Trigun Stampede subverted plenty of low expectations by being not only a creative re-imaging taking from both the original manga and the 1998 anime series but also exploring more of the sci-fi angle and the world of No Man´s Land.

Firstly, and one of the most controversial changes in Stampede is its modernized take on the original character designs: most of the characters lost their overall cool and edgy look which may be a bummer to longtime fans, the "weaker" looking redesigns are serviceable due to Stampede´s deeper exploration of Vash´s feelings. The visual aspect of the series is very appealing due to the masterful 3D animation crafted by Studio Orange, with fluid and engaging battle choreography and beautiful usage of lightning and colors. Impressive shots are plentiful on almost each episode and the twelfth episode is, in my opinion, one of the most visually impressive anime episodes in recent years.

Plot wise, Trigun Stampede, unlike its 1998 predecessor, immediately starts showcasing Vash´s origins and the overall post space-era setting, quickly engaging the viewer into the fascinating journey of Vash in the hostile land. The side characters Meryl and Roberto get quickly introduced and their characterization being one of the weakest aspects of Stampede. Meryl, a key character in both the manga and the 98 anime adaptation, sadly seems to have no agency nor edge in Stampede, portrayed merely as Vash´s sidekick. On the other hand, Roberto, an original character to this adaptation, also gives nothing to the plot expect snark and some exposition during events, his relationship with Meryl being an extremely cliche hotshot rookie- jaded senior dynamic. Milly, a character beloved by longtime fans, is sadly missing from Stampede and Roberto and Meryl definitely do not have the chemistry with Vash that Meryl and Milly had in the 98 anime. In this series, we see a more vulnerable Vash from the get go, his goofy facade being less present, showcasing the consequences of time and tragedy in his more subdued personality in this series. Vash´s stance on pacifism is more evident in the series, barely using his gun for non lethal disarming, instead showing his tendency avoid battle as possible due to fear of collateral damage and carnage. Due to these changes on Vash´s portrayal, the flashbacks and encounters with characters from his past are deeply emotional in order to resonate with the viewer.

Million Knives, Vash´s twin and biggest foe, gets his most dangerous portrayal in Stampede. Taking cues from the Trigun Maximum manga, Knives is an extremely menacing character with a lust for revenge, taking over the spotlight of every scene he´s in with gruesome actions. The showcase of Knives´motives for revenge and relationship with Vash surpass the previous 98 adaptation, making him a fascinating villain and the highlight of Stampede.

More scifi elements are present in this adaptation, mostly taken from the Trigun Maximum manga, which add layers to the worldbuilding and provide Stampede with an unique flair, especially regarding the nature of the mysterious Plants, source of power on No Man´s Land. Some minor characters have been modified in order to fit these new worldbuilding aspects, fitting seamlessly with Stampede modernized aesthetics and giving a fresh take to the world of Trigun.

I would definitely recommend Trigun Stampede to both new watchers and longtime fans of the manga and 98 anime, it´s a beautiful new yet familiar experience that shows a new aspect of the wonderful Vash with an slight scifi flair and gorgeous animation.