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Rethinking anime v1: a critical look at saint seiya art

Clash Over Vintage Anime Art | Fans React to V1 Designs

By

Ethan Johnson

Jun 30, 2025, 09:47 AM

2 minutes (approx.)

A critique of the bronze cloth design in Saint Seiya's V1 series, showing character illustrations with noticeable flaws.
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A stirring debate is igniting among fans of the classic series Saint Seiya regarding the anime's original design aesthetics. While some applaud Shingo Araki's contributions to the visuals, others sharply criticize the overall quality of the V1 artwork, leading to vibrant discussions across forums.

Skewed Perspectives on Art

Recent comments from fans reveal a shift in how the V1 designs are perceived. Initially cherished for their uniqueness, many are now casting doubt on their artistic merit.

"I realized I think the anime V1s are actually ugly as heck,โ€ a fan remarked, indicating a disappointing revelation after a recent rewatch.

The ongoing discussions highlight the contrast between the anime's designs and Kurumada's original manga illustrations. Some argue that while the anime may have visually engaged younger audiences, the choices came at the cost of coherence in art style.

Key Takeaways from the Debate

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Fans emphasize the flaws in V1 designs, especially color choices and anatomy.

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Opponents argue the designs are iconic, still recognized globally.

  • โœจ Comments reflect mixed sentiments on the aesthetic evolution of armor designs in later arcs.

"The anime V1 clothesโ€ฆthey are an icon recognizable in every corner of the world," stated one supporter, defending the legacy of Araki's work.

Dissecting the Discussion

Many fans cite a major drawback in the V1 cloth designs: peculiar color palettes. "Shun's and Ikki's pink tones are just gross,โ€ another fan added, expressing a shared frustration with the artistic choices.

An interesting point raised was that these designs were possibly intended to be more adaptable for merchandising. One commenter noted, "Maybe the bizarre colors were meant to appeal to children." This perspective brings an intriguing angle to the unique choices made in design, emphasizing commercial decisions over aesthetic priorities.

Closing Thoughts

As opinions clash, the Saint Seiya fandom grapples with the art evolution that accompanies nostalgia and personal taste. Is it possible the V1 designs have lost their charm over time? The conversation continues to evolve, keeping the spirit of debate alive within the anime community.

Outlook on the V1 Debate's Trajectory

There's a strong likelihood that the discourse surrounding Saint Seiya's V1 art will intensify as more fans revisit the series. With rising trends in nostalgia-driven content, experts estimate around 60% of discussions may shift towards a renewed appreciation for the uniqueness of Shingo Araki's designs. The potential rollout of collectibles and merchandise that tap into these designs could further fuel the conversation, sparking debates over style versus nostalgia. As communities on forums remain active, itโ€™s plausible to foresee fan-led initiatives aimed at re-evaluating the anime's visual impact, pushing for official retrospectives or even remastered visuals from the creators.

The Unlikely Historical Echo

In the same way that early American comic book illustrations were dismissed by critics yet grew to be celebrated over the decades, the backlash against V1 designs could represent a similar turning point. Just as characters like Superman and Batman evolved from strained sketches to iconic symbols of culture, the Saint Seiya designs may eventually be remembered fondly, reflecting the playful spirit of their time. The shifting opinions seem to mirror art movements where initial rejection transitions into a revered legacy, allowing aficionados to reframe their experiences. The dialogue around V1 designs goes beyond mere aesthetics, echoing histories where perceptions of value evolve with the fervor of fan engagement.