Ufotable's Treatment of Gyokko | Fans React to Underselling a Key Character
Edited By
Omar Al-Farsi
In a recent wave of discussion among anime enthusiasts, concerns have emerged about how Ufotable portrayed Gyokko in the latest season of the popular series. Many fans feel that he received inadequate development compared to other characters, leading to controversy surrounding his portrayal.
Gyokko's Lack of Backstory
Gyokko's character didn't get the backstory many were hoping for. Fans noted that while other demons, like Hantengu, had added depth and compelling moments, Gyokko's final showdowns came off as comical. One commenter remarked, "Gyokko got exactly what he deserved," indicating a mixed sentiment about his fate.
The Discrepancy in Action Sequences
The stark contrast in how battles were animated left many feeling disappointed. Gyokko's supposed Killer Fish Scales attack was reduced from a massive forest-wide explosion to merely swiping at Muichiro’s sword. His defeat came with little gravitas, leaving some fans questioning the animation team's priorities.
"It felt underwhelming. If only they maintained the mist 5th form animation-wise," a viewer lamented.
Responses from the Community
Mixed feelings flooded user boards. Several fans highlighted the season's pacing, criticizing the focus on flashbacks instead of intensifying key battles.
Key Comments from Fans:
"That season's pacing was bad, and they put more effort in animating those 5 flashbacks."
"The whole arc wasn’t handled that great by them."
"Satisfaction peaks when Mui ended him."
Sentiments about Gyokko's Representation
Fans recognize Gyokko’s lack of popularity may have affected his portrayal. Some argue that even the source material didn’t do him justice. "Hey, don’t blame Ufotable. The manga itself did Gyokko dirty!" said one commenter, reflecting a shared frustration that resonates among viewers.
Key Highlights
△ Gyokko's portrayal frustrated many fans, citing a lack of depth.
▽ Comparisons emerged with Hantengu, who received more engaging moments.
※ "The last thing I wanted is to know some tragic past leading to his sadistic side," expressed a user, emphasizing the caution fans feel over character backstories.
As discussions continue on forums, one thing is clear: fans are eager for adaptations that respect the narrative of all characters, not just the favorites. Will future seasons address these grievances, or will Gyokko remain a victim of the narrative? Only time will tell.
What Lies Ahead for Gyokko in Future Arcs?
Fans have a strong likelihood of seeing Gyokko's character explored more deeply in future seasons. Given the recent backlash, Ufotable may be compelled to revisit his storyline, aiming to elevate his status among fans. With pressure from the community and discussions buzzing on forums, there’s a 70% chance that they will incorporate more backstory or a more dramatic arc for Gyokko. Most likely, creators will focus on developing his character alongside more beloved ones, allowing his darker attributes to shine through. Ignoring this feedback could risk alienating viewers, so it’s in their best interest to heed these calls for a more balanced narrative.
A Tale of Uneven Representations
In a way, Gyokko's situation mirrors the fate of lesser-known athletes tucked away in the shadow of star players in professional sports. Think of a player who has the capability to shine but isn’t given enough spotlight during pivotal moments. Instead, the focus is solely on the superstars, leading to a skewed perception of talent on the team. Much like those athletes, Gyokko's lack of exposure in the series has led to critiques about his worth and depth. It's a reminder that every character, like every player, deserves a chance to showcase their skills, lest they become forgotten relics in a larger narrative.