Xam'd of the lost memories

In my recent article about how otaku culture was ruining the anime industry in Japan, I mentioned that things weren't all bad and that I'd soon be talking about some of the good. Xam'd of the Lost memories (Bounen no Zamudo) Is very good. Studio BONES has rarely if ever disappointed me and this show is them at the very top of their game.

Xam'd is set in a Fantasy world with an anachronistic mix of technologies, Very much in the vein of shows like Orguss 02 and Full metal Alchemist. The overall feeling of the show is similar to the latter though perhaps a bit less bleak.

The main character of the series is Akiyuki a laid-back high school boy living on a small and peaceful island. Unlike nearly all anime protagonists these days Akiyuki is quite likable. Unfortunately his easygoing attitude sets events in motion that change his life forever when he unwittingly helps a white haired immigrant girl sneak onto a bus.


Xam'd is a very character driven show with a great ensemble cast. The animation quality is fantastic. The action scenes are often breathtaking. This show has all the good qualities of BONES' previous show Eureka 7 without any of the annoying filler. It is rare in this day and age to be able to recommend a show from Japan without any caveats or reservations but this one I can.


My favorite character in Xam'd is Nakiami. If I were to describe Nakiami in 2 words it would be these "She's Nausicaa" She flies around on a powered glider that is very reminiscent of Nausicaa's gull. She is strong, determined and absolutely pure of heart. You might think that would be cheesy, but Just like Miyazaki's heroine, Nakiami is utterly charming. This is illustrated artistically in the beautiful closing credit sequence where every character is depicted in nighttime stills except Nakiami who suddenly appears flying in the clouds at daybreak. It's really breathtaking and makes me feel the sense of wonder I used to feel when I watched anime.


The only downside to Xam'd is the release strategy. The show was produced for Sony's Playstation network where they honestly expect you to spend $3.99 for a timed rental of a single episode. This is yet another sign that the Japanese have NO IDEA what they are doing over here. I will buy this show, but only when and if it comes out domestically on physical media. Watch Xam'd but don't give Sony the idea that this idiotic rental strategy is good. DO buy the show when and if it hits DVD though.