Steam-powered robots, tanks, aristocratic ninjas and a theater troupe of secretly-disguised and spirited young women splitting their time between Shakespeare and military training is the essence of Sakura Wars TV series, movies and games.
Set in Industrial Japan at the turn of the century following a dreadful demon-human war, the popular anime follows the country's efforts to prepare an invincible squadron of giant robots incase the demons return. These invincible machines can be piloted by spirits, but the only ones with sufficient spark to control them are young women. Recruited and kept secret, the Japanese government disguises them as actresses.
The anime is appealing to fans of Tenchi, Nadesico and Evangelion as there are familiar elements of all three.
The 25-episode anime television series is based on the first Sakura Wars Game and aired on TBS Television from April to September, 2000. It was based on the first game's narrative and kept true to creator Ohji Hiroi's vision.
