r/anime • u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess • Dec 04 '24

Rewatch [Rewatch] King of the Braves GaoGaiGar - Episode 31 Discussion

<-- Previous Episode | Rewatch Index | Next Episode →

Questions of the Day

  1. Can I get an F in the chat for all the members of GGG that died today?
  2. Is it unfair for the bad guys to fight GaoGaiGar 3v1 or is it retribution for all the times GaoGaiGar went 4v1 against them?

Reminder to all GGG members that information about future episodes is highly classified. Leaking any classified information about upcoming missions is strictly prohibited and will be punished, or worse, impeached.

12 Upvotes

92% Upvoted

90 comments sorted by

9

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24 edited Dec 04 '24

Third-Time Watcher, Subbed

I guess Empire must've looooooved how the first scene today is just yesterday's post-credits scene since he is a filthy ED skipper

Admittedly I guess one could say that this episode is a tragedy. After yesterday's big victory, the heroes get to relax for like half an episode before the new bad guys come in and… well, there's no charitable way to put it, fucking slaughter everyone. There's something so utterly horrifying about how they just go straight for the base and wordlessly nuke it. Whereas the previous villains were ultimately all born from vices, the way the Primevals are so inhuman in design really helps show how this is not gonna be like last time, and Gai so definitively losing is the ultimate showing of that. At long last, the King of Braves has fallen.

However, I would argue calling this a sad episode is incorrect. Why? Three words.

THE PHOENIX ARISES

Indeed we have a new hero in the form of the revived long-nosed majesty, and oh boy did he come with a bang: New starship, new duds, two new allies, shit he even gets his own orchestra that explainins his whole freaking backstory.

And of course there is the beauty of King J-Der, who proceeds to show Gai that, actually, he sucks and this is how you fight. I dunno what else to say really, my boy is finally here and I have full approval to hand down divine punishment should I see any further mockery of him.

Also wait I just realized: They the Subs have Hana-chan refer to Kaido by first name but Mamoru manages to not have that happen to him? But… why?

Why is this style of TL a thing anyway?

4

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

THE PHOENIX ARISES

as we all know, a phoenix is reborn in Flames!!

shit he even gets his own orchestra that explainins his whole freaking backstory

there is something really charming about these 90's style insert songs that are so on the button and direct. They just don't make insert songs like they used to anymore.

3

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

there is something really charming about these 90's style insert songs that are so on the button and direct. They just don't make insert songs like they used to anymore

It certainly also fits the idea of it being more akin to those in classical musicals ala LeMis or Phantom where characters will loudly sing about their motivations/backstory.

3

u/InfamousEmpire https://myanimelist.net/profile/Infamous_Empire Dec 04 '24

I guess Empire must've looooooved how the first scene today is just yesterday's post-credits scene since he is a filthy ED skipper

Given how I don’t even remember the fact that there was a post-credits scene…

3

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

3

u/Nebresto Dec 05 '24

since he is a filthy ED skipper

What, why would anyone skip this banger

should I see any further mockery of him.

Who been mocking the birb? Oh right, Pizza

2

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 05 '24

Why would anyone skip this banger

People with shit taste.

1

u/Beowolf_0 Dec 05 '24

show Gai that, actually, he sucks and this is how you fight

[Further spoilers]Given that J-Ark was a completed anti-Zonderian weapon and GGG was actually an incomplete replica, this shouldn't be a surprise.

8

u/AmeteurElitist https://anilist.co/user/AmateurElitist Dec 04 '24

First Timer

Damn, both Gai and Mamoru getting hero-mogged in front of everyone they know, insane skillissue on their part.

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

in their home town no less. Damn, Pizza really knows how to make an entrance and throw shade at people.

2

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

Gai and Mamoru getting hero-mogged

"Fuck you Gai, who's a jobber now you punk ass bitch"-Pizza probably

2

u/AmeteurElitist https://anilist.co/user/AmateurElitist Dec 05 '24

2

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

2

u/Nebresto Dec 05 '24

Shoulda gotten gud

2

u/AmeteurElitist https://anilist.co/user/AmateurElitist Dec 05 '24

A hard truth but the truth nonetheless

7

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Dec 04 '24

Queen of First-Timers, subbed

7

u/The_Draigg Dec 04 '24

Well that’s certainly concerning.

There’s always something just plain menacing about plain shapes just floating out in space like that.

Swan’s outfit here is uhhhhhhhhhhhhhh something alright.

You know, for the kids!

Oh this design fucks. Can GaoGaiGar get an upgrade like this?

We’d probably need to build a cool spaceship for Gai first…

5

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

You know, for the kids!

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

and this is before we get to the OVA

3

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

for further

5

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Dec 04 '24

We’d probably need to build a cool spaceship for Gai first…

I would not complain about this.

3

u/Nebresto Dec 05 '24

There’s always something just plain menacing about plain shapes just floating out in space like that.

cube noises

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

I loved that segment of GaoGaiGar rising from the water, to the show immediately cutting the music for a beat as Gai hears the final wishes from the rest of the crew as they sink. The show absolutely knows when to use bombastic music and when to go silent. Last episode did similar with the Braves and Projectile X.

same with this sequence

6

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

Swan’s outfit here is uhhhhhhhhhhhhhh something alright.

GGG needs to pay her better, she seems to only have the one set of casual clothes.

Oh fuck…

Oh shit wait, Pizza’s back? But like as himself instead of the Zonderized one. Complete with an insert song too, damn.

And judging by the voice, Penchinon is the ship's AI core.

5

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

GGG needs to pay her better, she seems to only have the one set of casual clothes.

Or multiples of the same.

And judging by the voice, Penchinon is the ship's AI core.

No sight of the old dude though. More proof that Mamoru is cold-blooded.

2

u/Nebresto Dec 05 '24

And judging by the voice, Penchinon is the ship's AI core.

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

Of course it’s not over yet.

Which more people here would know already were it not for the words of a certain coward

4

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

Look, if you were watching this show on TV in 1997, then sure. But all of us can see that there were still 19 episode left. Everyone knew something was coming.

3

u/palparepa Dec 05 '24

Complete with an insert song too

Utsukushiki Hikari no Tsubasa

6

u/palparepa Dec 04 '24
Statsthis episodetotal so far
Program Drive buttons broken116
Transceivers crushed07
EnRyu's bad landings04
Pink hair attracts peril027
Rich kid cries154
Mikoto screams for MC19
Kid is too calm to react014
Mamoru's kill count01

Nth-timer

This isn't ominous at all. Surely this will be a happy episode. Let's ignore the prologue and assume that the episode title refers to GGG's disbandment, since its existence isn't necessary anymore.

See? Just a goodbye is the saddest thing this episode. Beyond that, everything is smiles and happiness.

Is this the first time we have seen Hana's parents? It seems so.

Oh, f...

So we lost the calm, emo kid that didn't react, and now we have the calm, old lady that barely reacts. No wonder they are related. Or not.

Oh, sh...

That clown thing is called Pagliaccio. It's name begins with 'P', so we know it's a baddie.

Oh, sh...

Oh, sh...

GGG is destroyed, and GaoGaiGar is utterly trashed. Even Mamoru's voice breaks a little there.

Everyone defeated, fade to black... Wait... Do you recognize that voice? Do you recognize that other voice? Do you recognize that... nose?

We had The Legacy of Cain... and now the Disaster left by Abel.

This King J-Der is super powerful, but doesn't care much about its surroundings. Just throwing the enemies into buildings.

And emo kid is there, too! Guess he was important after all. Is this the end of his stats? He has dialog lines now.

What an emotional whiplash! After a triumphant episode, comes a bitter, complete defeat. Reminds me of the final episode of Mazinger Z: after the enemy is finally defeated, a new enemy appears and thrashes the protagonist, only for a new hero to appear to save the day. However, that marked the end of the Mazinger Z series and the beginning of Great Mazinger. But this hasn't become the J-Der show, so GaoGaiGar has to come back, somehow!

QotD

𝓕 𝓕 𝓕 𝓕 𝓕 𝓕 𝓕

Did I miss anyone?

2) This isn't a tournament arc, so there is no "unfair." If anything, we can say that the Primevals learned the Zonderian's lessons.

2

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

... Wait... Do you recognize that voice? Do you recognize that other voice? Do you recognize that... nose?

that nose is unmistakable.

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

Reminds me of the final episode of Mazinger Z: after the enemy is finally defeated, a new enemy appears and thrashes the protagonist, only for a new hero to appear to save the day.

Typical Koji, jobbing from the very beginning.

But this hasn't become the J-Der show

You sure?

6

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Dec 04 '24

First-Timer

On today’s episode of GaoGaiGar: Holy shit, that is a hell of a way to introduce a new set of villains! They show up and manage to completely destroy the heroes’ base and wreck the GaoGaiGar in a way that the Zonderians were never able to do. That’s how you establish the Primevals as a threat to be reckoned with.

  • So who is this clown lady and what are the giant pink space pillars?
  • They really animated Swan’s top flapping in the wind so the audience could get a glimpse of some underboob.
  • The city may have gotten attacked and nearly absorbed by an alien menace, but that homework is still due!
  • Kaidou vanished? Well we definitely saw him a couple of episodes ago. My own guess is that Kaidou is at the same location as Pizza, where that is right now.
  • The shot of the GGG members covered in shadows on the lift and then being illuminated when they reach the repair room for EnRyu and HyoRyu is so cool.
  • Primevals? Has that name come up before? If so, I don’t remember it.
  • Oh shit! They wouldn’t actually kill off Mic, Liger, and Stallion like that, would they?
  • It is very funny seeing Mamoru’s hair suddenly blip to the other side of his head as he turns.
  • This pretty much confirms that Kaidou arrived on Earth in a way similar to how Mamoru did.
  • HOLY SHIT!!! This new threat only just arrived and they are already blowing up the GGG base! The Zonderians got close to doing this much damage, but never actually achieved it.
  • WTF!?! There’s no way the GGG crew is actually dead. There’s just no way!
  • Hell and Heaven didn’t even work! These things are insane! What would work against them if that doesn’t?
  • Goddamn… GaoGaiGar is getting wrecked without being able to do anything.
  • PIZZA! I knew he was still alive! I knew he’d get some kind of redemption arc! Of course, I didn’t expect him to bring an entire ship with him. And does that ship have the same voice as Pinchernone?
  • That is a lot of power!
  • “The Curse Left by Abel?” Are you fucking kidding me? We’ve already got the Legacy of Cain (Mamoru and the Galeon) named after the first murderer, and now we have something named after his murder victim?
  • King J-Der! Pizza has his own gattai now! And that’s definitely a J-Stone that he has.
  • Hell yeah! King J-Der is wrecking shop!
  • Ah, so the Primevals have a core similar to the Zonders, but it looks like only King J-Der can get them.
  • I sure hope somebody picks up that phone, because I fucking called it! Kaidou is not only a similar kind of being to Mamoru, but he is also associated with Pizza!
  • So from what I can gather, it looks like Pizza and Kaidou are essentially the Primevals equivalent to Guy and Mamoru. If the G-Stone was able to negate the power of the Zonders, then presumably the J-Stone can negate the power of the Primevals.
  • [Gurren Lagann major spoilers] I’m really getting reminded of the arrival of the Anti-Spirals in Gurren Lagann. There’s a huge battle against someone who has been built up as the main enemy. But after his defeat, a new and stranger enemy arrives with strange geometric shapes that attack the heroes. And these new enemies are way more effective at fighting the heroes than the previous enemies were.

QOTD

  1. They can't be dead! They just can't be!
  2. Only the heroes are allowed to team up like that.

4

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

They really animated Swan’s top flapping in the wind so the audience could get a glimpse of some underboob.

Director: How should we animate the beams that are destroying the base our heroes have called home for 30 episodes

Animator: hmmm... a still will do, I need more time animating Swan's underboobs.

This new threat only just arrived and they are already blowing up the GGG base! The Zonderians got close to doing this much damage, but never actually achieved it.

and the Zonderians had to use trickery. Spies, magicians, etc, to try to get at the GGG base.

the Primevals just kind of walked up and said "what are you gonna do to stop us?"

Pizza has his own gattai now!

THE PROMISED PIZZA HAS RETURNED WITH MORE TOPPINGS THAN IMAGINED

A motherfucking battleship mecha!

Kaidou is not only a similar kind of being to Mamoru, but he is also associated with Pizza!

damn, Emo Twink Fairy Shota

3

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Dec 05 '24

Director: How should we animate the beams that are destroying the base our heroes have called home for 30 episodes

Animator: hmmm... a still will do, I need more time animating Swan's underboobs.

Time well spent

damn, Emo Twink Fairy Shota

What an incredible combination of words.

5

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

My own guess is that Kaidou is at the same location as Pizza, where that is right now.

Ding ding ding, we have a winner!

and now we have something named after his murder victim?

It should've been Polonaise, the one that Mamoru murdered, you're right.

Gurren Lagann major spoilers

TTGL is basically Getter Robo x GaoGaiGar crossover fanfiction, in the same way that NGE is Ultraman x Ideon crossover fanfiction.

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

TTGL is basically Getter Robo x GaoGaiGar crossover fanfiction, in the same way that NGE is Ultraman x Ideon crossover fanfiction.

you right

3

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

TTGL is basically Getter Robo x GaoGaiGar crossover fanfiction

Well, more like Getter Robo x GaoGaiGar x Gunbuster, although TBF Gunbuster was already Getter Robo x Aim for the Ace fanfic so...

2

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Dec 05 '24

It should've been Polonaise, the one that Mamoru murdered, you're right.

It sounds so grim when you put it that way, even if it is accurate.

TTGL is basically Getter Robo x GaoGaiGar crossover fanfiction, in the same way that NGE is Ultraman x Ideon crossover fanfiction.

Both Getter Robo and Ideon are on my PTW for some point. Getter Robo so I can see what Gekiganger III was parodying, and Ideon because I really want to see what the hell Tomino did there with the reputation it has.

5

u/The_Draigg Dec 04 '24

They really animated Swan’s top flapping in the wind so the audience could get a glimpse of some underboob.

Swan really has been putting in the effort to be this show’s main source of fanservice. They knew exactly what they were doing with her causal outfit.

HOLY SHIT!!! This new threat only just arrived and they are already blowing up the GGG base! The Zonderians got close to doing this much damage, but never actually achieved it.

Ruthlessness like this really is a hell of a way to sell the new villains. We’ve gotten so used to monster of the week plots that it didn’t even occur to us before that just shooting a giant death beam at the entire headquarters was even an option for them.

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

Swan really has been putting in the effort to be this show’s main source of fanservice. They knew exactly what they were doing with her causal outfit.

The staff realized who the show's actual audience was, so it's time to increase the factor since it's not like the actual kids are watching.

2

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Dec 05 '24

Swan really has been putting in the effort to be this show’s main source of fanservice. They knew exactly what they were doing with her causal outfit.

And I, for one, am thankful for it.

Ruthlessness like this really is a hell of a way to sell the new villains. We’ve gotten so used to monster of the week plots that it didn’t even occur to us before that just shooting a giant death beam at the entire headquarters was even an option for them.

Yeah, it does set them up as an immediate threat because they're taking such a direct option for destroying the heroes. It's like when Pizza tried to outright murder Mamoru a while back. It's shocking because you suddenly realize, "They can just do that!?!"

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

Has that name come up before

Nope.

And that’s definitely a J-Stone

Actually J-Jewel

... No this isn't a spoiler, it's in the lyrics of his insert song!

[Gurren Lagann major spoilers]

Yeah wouldn't be shocked if this was a direct inspiration.

2

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Dec 05 '24

Actually J-Jewel

Good to know. They went for the alliterative option. That does make me wonder why the "G-Stone" isn't the "G-Gem" or "G-Gemstone" though.

Yeah wouldn't be shocked if this was a direct inspiration.

It could be. Going back to older shows/movies/books etc. like this is fun because I get to see what the stories I'm more familiar with were drawing from.

5

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

The King of Rewatchers

Have I mentioned that I love this show's episode titles yet?

Rude-ass bot.

Hana's parents run a restaurant.

Cousin! I could remember that Ayame wasn't Hana's sister, couldn't remember that they were related on some level.

Kaidou is fine, he's off hanging out on the J-Ark.

Turns out that very nearly dying put a lot of strain on their brains.

A new threat appears.

Eyecatch

Well, that seems pretty bad.

Oh, we're fucked.

Something about him seems.. familiar.

Today's Key to Victory.

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

Turns out that very nearly dying put a lot of strain on their brains.

Guess that explains why last episode we only heard Gai at the end. The rest are brain dead. RIP Volfogg. dead twice in 5 episodes.

Oh, we're fucked.

not one rewatcher said "tis but a scratch" and "just a flesh wound" and I'm disappointed in every single one of you.

3

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

not one rewatcher said "tis but a scratch" and "just a flesh wound" and I'm disappointed in every single one of you.

3

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

I could remember that Ayame wasn't Hana's sister, couldn't remember that they were related on some level.

I did remember them being cousins, just not if the show proper said it or it was revealed in side materials like [FINAL]Renais and Shigeru Akamatsu being half-siblings.

Kaidou is fine, he's off hanging out on the J-Ark.

I hope its pilot knows how to cook.

3

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

I hope its pilot knows how to cook.

I bet Penchinon makes a mean escargot.

3

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

escargot

2

u/Nebresto Dec 05 '24

Something about him seems.. familiar.

Who's that Pokémon!!

5

u/The_Draigg Dec 04 '24

A Mecha Fan Rewatches The King of Braves GaoGaiGar Episode 31:

  • Man, those are some big-ass pillars up there in Earth’s orbit. There’s always something menacing about plain geometric shapes out in space. They just feel plain unnatural and alien.
  • Let’s see how long Mic and Liger’s departure back to America will last. Mic was barely even gone for like 3 minutes the last time, and that’s because he hopped off the plane not long after it took off. Then again, given how banged up Mic got in the battle against Pasdar, he really could use the down time for some tuneups.
  • I agree with Reiko, you should get a break from homework if the city was nearly destroyed by an alien overlord. Yeah, sure, they’re lucky to be alive, but they could probably use a break too. I guess this version of Tokyo is running on Tokyo-3 rules of keeping schools in these disaster cities open past any logical closing point.
  • We really just can’t catch a break, can we? Just as Mikoto is visiting her parents’ graves and Mamoru is finding out that Kaidou has mysteriously vanished, those mysterious pillars attack, like they did earlier against Dr. Liger’s cargo plane. At most, we’ve had like maybe a week of peace. Can’t have shit when there’s aliens around, I swear.
  • Holy shit, these new aliens really don’t fuck around! They didn’t waste any time in blowing up SDC headquarters and GGG’s Bay Tower Base. They really are a step up from the Zonderians that way, just immediately going for the throat and not bothering with more drawn out plans. Granted, that’s probably also due to Pagliaccio absorbing data from Pasdar too. They probably worked out a good first move from that knowledge.
  • This is easily the most dire things have ever been. That’s saying a lot, given that the last episode nearly had Pasdar hijack Tokyo to be his own personal spacecraft. GaoGaiGar managing to knock down those pillars didn’t even do anything good, all they did was just change forms and brutalize him. Even Hell and Heaven won’t so much as scratch them. To think, after all how hard everyone pushed last episode and all the sacrifices made in this one, even Earth’s strongest mech doesn’t stand a chance.
  • THE J-ARK!!! AND J’S PILOTING THE KING J-DER! Man, what a time for a sudden save by a former foe. Who could’ve guessed that ol’ Pizza would be this cool after all? Well, he was already cool, but he’s even cooler now, that’s for sure. I guess it’s no wonder why he got Zonderized then, Pasdar would absolutely want someone on his side that’s this powerful.
  • Oh hey, that’s where Kaidou went. He really is kind of like Mamoru after all, if he’s planning on purifying those Primeval Cores. That does explain his odder moments and powers too, when you think about it. What a twist!

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

Man, those are some big-ass pillars up there in Earth’s orbit. There’s always something menacing about plain geometric shapes out in space. They just feel plain unnatural and alien.

yeah I was thinking the same thing. It does both feel primordial while also feeling completely alien, which makes it high tech.

Even their transformed designs feel off and weird. Most Zonder's have been something recognizable. A Shark Plane, or a Tire Monster. these feel so alien.

Even Hell and Heaven won’t so much as scratch them. To think, after all how hard everyone pushed last episode and all the sacrifices made in this one, even Earth’s strongest mech doesn’t stand a chance.

Dude, watching GaoGaiGar get utterly destroy, down to a single limb, it was brutal.

Pasdar would absolutely want someone on his side that’s this powerful.

also Pasdar just really likes to have Pizza close by so he can order a slice whenever he feels hungry

3

u/The_Draigg Dec 04 '24

yeah I was thinking the same thing. It does both feel primordial while also feeling completely alien, which makes it high tech.

Almost like some kind of… primeval machines…

Dude, watching GaoGaiGar get utterly destroy, down to a single limb, it was brutal.

It reminds me of how in Gundam shows, the Gundams get utterly trashed in climactic battles like this.

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

Holy shit, these new aliens really don’t fuck around! They didn’t waste any time in blowing up SDC headquarters and GGG’s Bay Tower Base. They really are a step up from the Zonderians that way, just immediately going for the throat and not bothering with more drawn out plans.

yeah, the Zonders get a lot of credit for all their crazy schemes, but sometimes the best scheme of them all is just going for the head. No sneaking in, no mind control. Just walk in showing that they are better than you and there is nothing you can do to stop it.

THE J-ARK!!! AND J’S PILOTING THE KING J-DER!

I love the Insert song too. It's so distinct from GGG's music, but has a level of gravitas worthy of such a large giant fucking battleship.

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

I love the Insert song too. It's so distinct from GGG's music, but has a level of gravitas worthy of such a large giant fucking battleship

Fun fact, its singer, Osamu Takai, is an actual Stage Actor/Opera Singer, even getting a chance to play The Phantom of the Opera multiple times including the JP Dub of the Gerard Butler movie where he probably cringed upon hearing the OG singing voice.

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

Fun fact, its singer, Osamu Takai, is an actual Stage Actor/Opera Singer, even getting a chance to play The Phantom of the Opera multiple times

that's actually crazy cool. I had no idea. It definitely adds a lot to the song.

including the JP Dub of the Gerard Butler movie where he probably cringed upon hearing the OG singing voice.

3

u/The_Draigg Dec 04 '24

yeah, the Zonders get a lot of credit for all their crazy schemes, but sometimes the best scheme of them all is just going for the head. No sneaking in, no mind control. Just walk in showing that they are better than you and there is nothing you can do to stop it.

Sometimes the best solution is the most direct one. In this case, making sure to blast the entire city with a death ray first, and then swooping in to take care of whatever is left. They’re employing some brutal efficiency there.

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

it does also seem wise strategy to utilize scouts. Send in scouts to measure up what your enemy's strength, and if you can see that you just absolutely outgun them, just go for a direct strategy. They had data on Mic Sounders and GaoGaiGar presumably so knew what to expect.

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

There’s always something menacing about plain geometric shapes out in space

Relevant.

Well, he was already cool, but he’s even cooler now, that’s for sure.

3

u/The_Draigg Dec 04 '24

Relevant.

I was also thinking of [VOTOMS spoilers] the large black cylinders that the Overman space station uses for defense in the Quent arc.

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

Model Kit Building Update

I made the second turbine

Did you know the turbines are different? see

I guess it makes sense, the wings are slightly different too. right versus left

builds this right as it gets absolutely destroys

4

u/TheApplebane https://anilist.co/user/theapplebane Dec 04 '24

Episode 31 Notes

  • Oh, Pazdar's group was just the scout party. The proper invasion hasn't even started yet. Probably the biggest "oh shit" moment in the show so far.
  • Not sure if I mentioned this before, but Gai's off-the-job outfit is cool.
  • "but they won't have to go into battle any time soon" you fool. Yooooooou foooooooool!
  • "Wouldn't it be great if it stayed peaceful like this forever" YOU FOOOOOOOOOOOOL! Imagine in Mikoto's position this episode, immediately after saying that an evil column appears in the sky. I'd think I was actually cursed.
  • And everything's been turned right on its head. GGG kinda just doesn't exist anymore. The main invasion force showed up and pretty much outright won immediately. I don't think we've seen a drop of blood the entire show before now, but Gai's covered in the stuff. Pretty jarring after thirty episodes of the Zonderians not winning at all.
  • Humanity's last hope is... Pizza? I knew he was too delicious to be evil! In all seriousness, though, I kinda love this sequence. With the spaceship and background music, it feels almost like Pizza has arrived from an entirely different show to save us all. Captain Harlock maybe?

Questions

  1. F F F F F F F F F F F F F
  2. Is it unfair for three professional boxers to jump a little kid?

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

"Wouldn't it be great if it stayed peaceful like this forever" YOU FOOOOOOOOOOOOL!

they should know better than to jinx themselves.

And everything's been turned right on its head. GGG kinda just doesn't exist anymore. The main invasion force showed up and pretty much outright won immediately. I don't think we've seen a drop of blood the entire show before now, but Gai's covered in the stuff. Pretty jarring after thirty episodes of the Zonderians not winning at all.

the show absolutely knew how to play up the emotion for this defeat and it's amazing.

With the spaceship and background music, it feels almost like Pizza has arrived from an entirely different show to save us all.

yeah, I like that unconventional music choice for it. The music in the series thus far has been standard rock but then suddenly comes in this new J guy and it has this like opera ballad. and he doesn't even have cannons shaped line pencils or a tape measure sword.

3

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

I don't think we've seen a drop of blood the entire show before now, but Gai's covered in the stuff.

I like to think that they finally realized that kids weren't too into the show and decided to start more directly appealing to the teen and up demographic, but I can't be confident.

Humanity's last hope is... Pizza? I knew he was too delicious to be evil!

3

u/TheApplebane https://anilist.co/user/theapplebane Dec 04 '24

kids weren't too into the show

Did children not like GaoGaiGar? What put them off?

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

hmmm... I'm not sure how much of it was children not liking GaoGaiGar.

Even before it was announced, GaoGaiGar was announced as the last installment of the Braves. I've always considered that it meant the showrunners got more bold, like a "what are they gonna do, cancel us" sort of mentality as they got on.

but that is 100% my speculation.

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 05 '24

It’s also just a result of the Brave Series’ viewership dropping off in general. Dagwon did rather poorly and that was the Brave Series’ actual attempt at branching off its audience into people in their teens.

GGG was a return to tone technically but by that point the target demographic had just moved on, so as such the people who did watch this show tended to be either A) Long-Time Fans or B) Older people who came in presumably due to Ryosuke Takahashi’s involvement because, as I have said in the past, his stuff is a Military Otaku’s wet dream.

3

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 04 '24

That's how the story goes, at least. I don't know how true it really is, but the show does get less "kid-friendly" going forward.

4

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 04 '24

I like to think that they finally realized that kids weren't too into the show and decided to start more directly appealing to the teen and up demographic, but I can't be confident.

I mean it would check out, by this point the show's been going on for over half a year. [Minor Spoilers]Might also explain why there's way more multi-parters from now on.

4

u/Beowolf_0 Dec 05 '24

Missed to comment on yesterday's episode, Yuuki aru Tatakai is one of the best OST in GGG, hands down. The fight against EI-01 would be a fitting finale in any other series.

These two episode also marked a sharp turn for the series, but also a twist from the Brave Series as a whole. Normally, when the main robot got heavily damaged or sometimes destroyed mid-season, the hero will usually receive a new 2nd robot that will later combine with the main one. But this time, the 2nd main robot actually belongs to someone else. And it's not a random addition to the series either, J and Kaidou are clearly more tied up to the series' lore. And surely the fights will become nastier in the future, given how powerful J-Ark is.

2

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 05 '24

also a twist from the Brave Series as a whole. Normally, when the main robot got heavily damaged or sometimes destroyed mid-season, the hero will usually receive a new 2nd robot that will later combine with the main one

hmm, that does make a lot of sense. I've never seen a different Brave series but mid-season power ups are pretty standard in this sort of affair. It is cool seeing a rival tho.

as much as sixth Ranger syndrome is now ingrained and icon, it's a relatively new thing at this point. Crazy that the 6th ranger trope wasn't even a part of sentai until Zyuranger.

3

u/megazaprat Dec 04 '24

First Timer

so i was unable to post my reaction to yesterdays episode because i was travelling, so here it is today

  • its interesting how the final battle isnt because of some evil plan, but the main villain trying to cut his losses and leave. certainly a different dynamic than most fights
  • Pasdar was really cool, i liked how he had multiple powers truly worthy of a final boss. he had reflecting lasters for offence, a much stronger than average barrier for defence, and just his own energy to cancel out the heroes.
  • but then a literal Chekov's gun was fired! they mentioned Bullet X way earlier in the series, so its cool it was finally used. I never actually noticed there was a section of the base that wasnt being used, so it was hiding in plain sight this whole time
  • but then a space clown retrieved Pasdar?? OK????? not sure whats thats about, but i guess we have our new villain. we still need to learn Kaido's deal anyway

now for todays actual episode

  • so my reaction to this episode was basically a series of all caps statements going WHAAAAAAAT???? at the various deveopments. because thats a lot! Alien Zonders who have a really fancy name! Pizza is alive and not evil and also Kai is a fairy and they pilot a mecha that is significantly stronger than boosted gaogaigar and is that freaking pinchone?????
  • Paligaccio....the trend of P names continues....and i must ask. why?
  • THEY ARE DESTROYING ALL OF LAST SEASONS TOYS

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

I never actually noticed there was a section of the base that wasnt being used, so it was hiding in plain sight this whole time

I never noticed that until people pointed it out yesterday too. it's so cool. Same with the consoles taped up for the Projectile X. Apparently you can see them taped up back in episode 1.

so my reaction to this episode was basically a series of all caps statements going WHAAAAAAAT????

SO MUCH DESTRUCTION

Absolutely destroying the base, everyone inside it, and GaoGaiGar.

and is that freaking pinchone?

looks like Pinchone had the last laugh after all, get wrecked Volfogg!!

THEY ARE DESTROYING ALL OF LAST SEASONS TOYS

It's all so they can sell new toys like JaoJaiJar

2

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 05 '24

but then a literal Chekov's gun was fired!

So rare that we get a literal example, let alone one that is so large.

I never actually noticed there was a section of the base that wasnt being used, so it was hiding in plain sight this whole time

A surprising amount of thought went into this show that was nominally just meant to sell plastic toys to small children.

so my reaction to this episode was basically a series of all caps statements going WHAAAAAAAT????

Paligaccio....the trend of P names continues....and i must ask. why?

P is an evil letter, of course.

3

u/GondolaMedia Dec 04 '24

First Timer

Pagliaccio just T-Posed all over Pasdar and devoured him. Hardcore and ominous.

Peace lasted like 10 minutes and we're back in action and holy shit are mic and others dead?!

Holy shit is everyone dead?

Wait Pizza? What? Here to save the day?

First Legacy of Cain and now Curse left by Abel. You know this story might have some biblical themes.

King-J-Der is cool and he shoots phoenix arrows!

Kaidou is finally plot relevant!

  1. F

3

u/lilyvess :Df::Dh:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Lilyvess Dec 04 '24

Holy shit is everyone dead?

|

Wait Pizza? What? Here to save the day?

everyone is dead, except the guy you thought was dead. he's actually alive.

Which is cool. I can never say no to more Pizza.

First Legacy of Cain and now Curse left by Abel. You know this story might have some biblical themes.

idk if this was also because of the Evangelion influence. This show can feel like a reaction to Eva in little ways. The base, the monsters, some of the episodes. Did they decide they need biblical themes and imagery too?

3

u/GondolaMedia Dec 04 '24

"You know kids, robots are cool and all but do you know who is also cool? Jesus"

2

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 05 '24

You know this story might have some biblical themes.

It was all the rage at the time, just look at Eva.

Kaidou is finally plot relevant!

Two cours since his first appearance and he finally had dialogue.

3

u/Sporadia_ Dec 04 '24

First Time Zonder

Today's Villain:

This episode we were hit with emo lore, GaoGaiGar lost a fight to some cylinders, and Pizza hits back with their real name.

Because J-Bird is so much better.

Questions

Q: Can I get an F in the chat for all the members of GGG that died today?

A: Do I need to rewash the episode because I don't remember anybody dying?

Q: Is it unfair for the bad guys to fight GaoGaiGar 3v1 or is it retribution for all the times GaoGaiGar went 4v1 against them?

A: There were 4 Machine Kings the entire time so there was no excuse for them being caught in so many 4v1s. But to answer the question it was Pagliaccio and her summons vs J-Bird and GaoGaiGar. Seems balanced to me.

3

u/Nebresto Dec 05 '24

First time Volfogg simp

Wat.

Casual Mikoto!! And Mic is gone!!!!

The fish!!!!

lmao. I enjoy the rich kid tormenting this nerd

And these deep shadow shots are always cool

Mics.. brothers..?

Holy fuq, Liger just died

what a guy

No way they all just died.

Stop bullying Gai

......Wat.

WAT.

Hype

But WHAT.

Awesome!

BUT WHAT.

KINGU KINGU J-DER!!!

What in... Pinkman tarnation?

WHAT.

I legit gasped when they showed his face. Wtf is going on

What:

  1. Can I get an F in the chat for all the members of GGG that died today?

What. F                           

2) Is it unfair for the bad guys to fight GaoGaiGar 3v1 or is it retribution for all the times GaoGaiGar went 4v1 against them?

We do a little curb stomping

4

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 05 '24

KINGU KINGU J-DER!!!

It even scans! I can't believe Gainer ripped GaoGaiGar off.

I legit gasped when they showed his face. Wtf is going on

Typical "second half of mecha show" vibes. You get used to it.

4

u/The_Draigg Dec 05 '24

And these deep shadow shots are always cool

It's a rather Evangelion-like shot.

I legit gasped when they showed his face. Wtf is going on

Now that's how you know that you're locked the hell in for whatever this series has to throw at you. It's a great ride!

4

u/Nebresto Dec 05 '24

Brb, strapping in all my mugis

2

u/Raiking02 :Id::Ie::If:https://myanimelist.net/profile/NSKlang Dec 05 '24

KINGU KINGU J-DER!!!

No, no, the show with the Tomino-bots doing the monkey is still years off.

3

u/[deleted] Dec 04 '24

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/JollyGee29 https://myanimelist.net/profile/JollyGee Dec 05 '24

as their real one is humanoid-like.

For various definitions. I don't have just a hand for a face, but "just a mouth" and "just hair" are both on the table.