Reborn as a Space Mercenary Episode 1 Review: A fun sci-fi start for a Galaxy-Spanning isekai

Reborn as a Space Mercenary Episode 1 screened early via Crunchyroll to set the stage for its broadcast. A-CAT is responsible for the animation for this sci-fi isekai. In the opening episode, the main character finds himself in the middle of a large, elaborate alien setting that revolves around his expertise in piloting and mercenary affairs.

Does Episode 1 deliver on its title as well? Mostly, yes. The beginning episode clarifies the premise quickly: a man in a new body wakes up inside a fully equipped spaceship. The episode then showcases why it matters but remains unclear on how he got there.

Setting the Stage for a Sci-Fi Isekai

The pacing of Reborn as a Space Mercenary Episode 1 is fast-moving right from the outset. Instead of long explanations, the episode makes use of fast visual hints and a few critical conversations to explain the universe.

The themes of the mercenary contracts, the active interest of the empire, and the unique flying instincts of the main protagonist are all presented at the same pace. Such economy is absolutely necessary for the success of any first episode.

The introduction of the characters is also well done. The navigator, who shares space with the protagonist in Reborn as a Space Mercenary Episode 1 is surprisingly expressive and distinguished. He contributes to the plot significantly and helps to build the chemistry with the main character.

The opening theme, "Unstoppable" by Flow, gives the premiere a strong energy boost right out of the gate. It pairs well with the show's pitch as a straightforward, momentum-driven space adventure, and it sets an upbeat tone before the plot even gets moving.

Animation and Action in Reborn as a Space Mercenary Episode 1

Animation quality has been a major concern leading into this release, following Studio A-CAT’s track record on earlier works. Reborn as a Space Mercenary Episode 1 does not fully alleviate those concerns.

Some of the conversations are presented using static poses and only a limited amount of movement, while there are some abrupt transitions. The scenes of the cockpit, on the contrary, are much more successful in this respect, as they are characterized by nice line work and greater intentionality of camera positioning at key moments during piloting.

The strong point of the episode is definitely its action choreography during the battle scenes. The action highlights in this episode rely a lot on visuals, with wide shots featuring the spaceship in vast open space, proving the “strongest” claim in the title. Although the choreography is not perfect, it is still good enough to maintain the audience’s interest in spite of the low budget.

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In conclusion, Reborn as a Space Mercenary Episode 1 is a decent and entertaining beginning. The series is based on the classic isekai platform, but the animation could be better.

However, the pacing, the space setting, and the consistent reaction of the protagonist to his new life make the premiere worth watching, plus it will be available on Crunchyroll for everyone starting October 4.

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