Ep 1. JSDF Goes to Another World

JSDF Goes to Another World is the first episode of the anime series Gate season 1. The show starts with a dark and stormy night in modern-day Tokyo. In the middle of the rain, a mysterious portal appears out of nowhere in the middle of the city, and out of it emerges a host of creatures from a medieval fantasy world. These creatures, including knights on horseback, dragons, and even monsters, begin attacking the city and its inhabitants, causing widespread chaos and destruction.

In the midst of the onslaught, a young otaku named Itami Youji sees the portal open and the monsters come out. Rather than running away in fear, he rushes towards the portal in excitement, donning his favorite cosplay outfit as a soldier from one of his favorite video games. As he approaches the portal, he sees the creatures and realizes that they are not computer-generated graphics at all - they are real.

Soon after, Itami meets with other civilians, and they band together to try and fight back against the invaders. However, their efforts prove to be futile, as the creatures are too powerful and numerous, and their weapons too primitive to stand a chance against them. It looks like Tokyo is doomed to be destroyed, but a sudden turn of events changes everything.

A mysterious helicopter flies overhead and drops a group of soldiers from the Japanese Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) into the fray. The soldiers quickly take charge of the situation, repelling the creatures with advanced weapons and tactics. They rescue the civilians, including Itami, and set up a perimeter to contain the portal and the creatures coming through it.

Itami is inspired by the JSDF's bravery and skill, and decides to join them in fighting against the invaders. He is quickly recruited to assist them, along with several other civilians who are able to lend their skills to the cause. Together, they travel through the portal to the other world, where they discover a medieval land of knights, magic, and advanced technology.

As they explore this strange new world, they encounter various factions - including the Empire, a powerful nation with a powerful army and a cruel dictator. The JSDF and their civilian companions soon realize that they are in a position to change the balance of power in this world, and make a fateful decision that will have far-reaching consequences.

JSDF Goes to Another World sets up the premise for the rest of the Gate series, introducing viewers to a fascinating mix of fantasy and military action. The show is noteworthy for its blend of traditional anime tropes with elements of military science fiction, blending swords and sorcery with tanks and helicopters. Itami is a relatable protagonist for anime fans, as he is a fan of anime and manga himself and is able to act as an audience surrogate for the viewer. Overall, the episode is a thrilling introduction to the world of Gate, leaving viewers eager to see what happens next.