Hiro Mashima, the creator of the long-running series Fairy Tail, embarked on a new endeavor with Edens Zero, a science fiction-themed manga series. With a fresh narrative and different setting, Edens Zero initially appeared to offer a departure from its predecessor. Mashima’s approach seemed more innovative, but upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that familiar elements and patterns from Fairy Tail have found their way into Edens Zero, raising concerns about the potential repetition of past mistakes.
While Edens Zero introduces new character designs and personalities, the overall storyline manages to stand on its own. However, keen-eyed viewers and fans of Mashima’s work can’t help but notice the diminishing distinctiveness of Edens Zero and the reemergence of certain problematic elements. Aspects of the series exhibit both Mashima’s growth as an author and his inclination to revert to familiar patterns, leading to a mixed reception.
One recurring issue that plagued Fairy Tail was its excessive use of fanservice, which contributed to its divisive reception. While fanservice is a common element in anime, it can become problematic when it permeates almost every episode, diluting the gravity of serious moments. Fairy Tail suffered from this overindulgence, with even the most dire and emotional scenes being overshadowed by lighthearted comedic moments. While fanservice can serve as a welcome respite in moderation, its excessive inclusion in Edens Zero compromises the weight of certain situations.
In Edens Zero, fanservice is noticeably present, with one character, Rebecca Bluegarden, often at the center of such antics, reminiscent of Lucy Heartfilia’s role in Fairy Tail. While the occasional scene may not be a cause for concern, the repetitive nature of certain fanservice elements, such as Shiki and Weisz repeatedly looking under Rebecca’s shorts, can undermine the series’ appeal and come across as unamusing.
Another issue that plagued Fairy Tail was the predictability of its fight scenes. Antagonists who initially posed significant threats would often be defeated in a predictable and humiliating manner by the protagonists. This pattern led to a sense of repetitiveness, with fans anticipating the outcome of battles before they even began.
Edens Zero exhibits a similar problem with its fight scenes. Many confrontations conclude after just a few exchanges between opponents, with the protagonists, particularly Shiki and his friends, emerging victorious. The introduction of Ether Gear, which shares similarities with Fairy Tail’s magic system, grants Shiki an overpowered ability—gravity Ether Gear—making him a formidable opponent. However, this also leads to a formulaic structure in which Shiki defeats his enemies with relative ease, diminishing the tension and excitement that should accompany a battle. The repetition of this narrative pattern in Edens Zero may evoke a sense of déjà vu for fans of Fairy Tail and potentially limit the series’ impact.
Additionally, the concept of the power of friendship, which played a significant role in Fairy Tail, reappears in Edens Zero. In Fairy Tail, characters’ strength was often attributed to the bonds they shared with their friends, acting as a form of plot armor that negated significant damage. While this concept resonated with some fans, others felt it undermined the logical progression of the story and the stakes of the battles. In the context of Edens Zero’s sci-fi narrative, which takes a more technological approach, the power of friendship loses some of its effectiveness. The reliance on this concept in Edens Zero, with Shiki entering a frenzy when his friends are hurt, feels out of place in a world devoid of magic. This repetition of a controversial element from Fairy Tail raises questions about Mashima’s willingness to explore new narrative avenues.
It is important to acknowledge that Edens Zero is still a distinct work and showcases Mashima’s growth as an author in terms of world-building and character development. The series incorporates fresh concepts and explores different themes within its science fiction setting. Mashima’s ability to craft engaging storylines and create unique, diverse characters is evident throughout Edens Zero.
However, the recurrence of problematic elements from Fairy Tail in Edens Zero cannot be ignored. While some fans may appreciate the familiarity, others may view it as a missed opportunity for Mashima to break new ground and avoid repeating past mistakes. The inclusion of excessive fanservice, predictable fight scenes, and the reliance on the power of friendship risks undermining the originality and impact of Edens Zero.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that Mashima’s growth as an author is also evident in Edens Zero. The series introduces intriguing sci-fi concepts, explores complex themes of identity and technology, and features a diverse cast of characters with their own unique motivations and backstories. Mashima demonstrates his ability to craft compelling narratives and deliver emotional moments that resonate with readers.
It remains to be seen how Edens Zero will evolve and whether Mashima will address the concerns raised by the similarities to Fairy Tail. As the series progresses, there is hope that Mashima will continue to innovate, pushing the boundaries of his storytelling and delivering a more distinct and captivating experience for fans.
Ultimately, the reception of Edens Zero will vary among readers. Some may appreciate the familiar elements that connect it to Fairy Tail, while others may hope for a more distinct and fresh approach. Regardless, Edens Zero stands as a testament to Mashima’s storytelling prowess and his ability to create engaging and immersive worlds.
We bring out some of the most well-known Fairy Tail Collection, all of which are available at reasonable costs. Visit our link now if you are interested in the Fairy Tail Collection!
Gajeel Redfox,Juvia Lockser,Wendy Marvell,Carla,Mirajane Strauss