Watch Xenosaga: The Animation

Xenosaga: The Animation is a science fiction anime television series that was produced by Toei Animation and been broadcasted by TV Asahi in 2005. It is based on the video game series of the same name created by Monolith Soft. The story revolves around a space-cruiser named the Woglinde, which is scheduled to transport a group of scientists to a planet in a distant star system. However, the voyage takes an eerie turn when the ship is invaded by a group of powerful Gnosis, an alien race of enigmatic monsters that can manifest from spiritual energy known as U-DO.

The attack prompts the activation of the KOS-MOS weapon system, a nanotechnology-enhanced android designed to combat the Gnosis threat. The team soon realizes that the Gnosis are only a small part of a larger conspiracy involving the Zohar, an artifact with the power to reshape reality, and the secretive organization known as the U-TIC Company.

The main protagonist of the series is Shion Uzuki, the lead scientist on board the Woglinde, who was integral in the development of KOS-MOS. She is determined to protect her friends and colleagues, and to uncover the truth behind the string of events that have occurred.

The other core characters in the series include the android KOS-MOS, the laconic communications officer Allen Ridgeley, the hot-tempered Junior, who is also a member of the U-TIC Company's special forces unit, and MOMO, a young girl who shares a mysterious connection to the Zohar artifact.

The series received critical acclaim for its stunning visuals and intricate storyline, which features dynamic action sequences, intricate conspiracies, and a cast of charming characters. The art style is science-fiction feel, with effectively designed mecha and costume making some of the technology look dreamy futuristic. Since the show was inspired by a video game, the CG work is top notch and adds an extra dimension to this already spectacular series.

Masakazu Morita voices the character of Ziggy, an amnesiac cyborg and member of the U-TIC Company's special forces unit. His fine voice skills and tactful performances add depth and charm to the character. Another talented voice actor who lent her skills to the series is child-star Ai Maeda who voices the mysterious MOMO character. Her voice has the perfect emotional range and delivers stunning performance throughout the series.

The music score is impressive, with a beautiful soundtrack that nicely complements the visuals which makes it more memorable. Furthermore, the series explores interesting ideas about unity, life, and the nature of humanity, with its story always being engaging and intriguing.

Overall, Xenosaga: The Animation features a great mix of action, mystery, and melodrama. It reveals intricate details of this futuristic society with a deep but fascinating storyline that rewards attentive viewers. The animation and visual effects improve the series' brilliant storyline and excellent characters to make it one of the most standout anime's from Toei Animation. Although the show may feel incomplete at times due to some unresolved plot arcs, it's still an anime that should be a part of every sci-fi fan's watchlist.