Watch Onyx Equinox

Onyx Equinox is a thrilling anime series that takes us on a journey to the ancient Mesoamerican world. The show revolves around a young boy named Izel, who finds himself chosen by the gods to save humanity from destruction. Izel is a reluctant hero at first, but as he begins his quest, he realizes the importance of his mission and starts to embrace his destiny.

The story of Onyx Equinox draws from Mesoamerican mythology, which is a refreshing change from the typical anime that draws on Japanese myths and legends. This unique approach gives the show a distinct flavor, and the world-building is impressive. From the sprawling cities to the dangerous jungles, the show's visual style portrays the world's depths and breadth, and the monster designs are particularly striking. The creatures in this universe are inspired by real-life Mesoamerican animals, such as jaguars and crocodiles, but with a mythological twist.

One of the show's most notable aspects is its representation of Mesoamerican culture. The show respectfully incorporates Mesoamerican languages such as Nahuatl and Yucatec Maya, and the voice actors all did a fantastic job in delivering the lines. It’s not just the languages and names that are inspired by Mesoamerican culture. The rituals, mythology, and even the way characters dress and interact are based on Mesoamerican beliefs and customs.

The main character, Izel, is an interesting protagonist. Though initially a reluctant hero, he grows and develops throughout the series. He starts out as being unsure of his abilities but slowly gains confidence in his role as a savior. Izel's character arc is satisfying, and he makes for a relatable character that viewers can root for.

The supporting cast is diverse and interesting, and each character has their own unique backstory and motivations. One standout character is Yaotl, a god of death and Izel's guide in his journey. Yaotl is a complex character, and his relationship with Izel is at times tense and at others touching. Jalil, another support character, is also noteworthy, being one of the few explicitly gay characters in anime. Representation matters, and the inclusion of a gay relationship in the show helps audiences better identify with the cast.

The plot of Onyx Equinox is a high-stakes affair, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance. The show's pacing is steady, and the tension ramps up as the story progresses. The show is not afraid to take risks, and it turns out to be a great decision, as the story avoids feeling formulaic.

The action scenes in Onyx Equinox are thrilling, with characters using everything from traditional weapons to elemental magic to fight their enemies. The fight choreography is well executed, and the combination of 2D animation and CGI is seamless. The show's stunning visuals add an extra layer of excitement to the already exhilarating fight scenes.

Overall, Onyx Equinox is a compelling anime series that is not afraid to take risks in its storytelling. The world-building is masterfully done, the characters are complex and relatable, and the action sequences are thrilling. The representation of Mesoamerican culture is respectful and informative, and the inclusion of a gay relationship is a welcome addition to the anime world. Onyx Equinox is an anime that stands out from the crowd, and it's definitely worth watching.

Onyx Equinox is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between November 21, 2020 and on Crunchyroll