It’s been over three decades since Bubblegum Crash first exploded onto the anime scene as a follow-up to the iconic Bubblegum Crisis series. Originally released in 1991 as a three-part OVA, Bubblegum Crash picks up the story a year after the high-octane events of the beloved 1987 original. And now, the dystopian streets of MegaTokyo are getting a full HD makeover in this brand-new Blu-ray edition that promises to delight fans both old and new.
The new release packs in all three episodes—Illegal Army, Geo Climbers, and Melt Down—remastered for today’s audiences. The highlight? A complete restoration of Episode 2 (Geo Climbers), alongside stunning HD upscales of Episodes 1 and 3. To sweeten the deal even further, the set comes wrapped in a newly designed, exclusive slipcover, available only for those who snag it from the MediaOCD webstore.
The Storyline: A New MegaTokyo, Same Knight Sabers
MegaTokyo might look the same, but things are shifting beneath its neon-lit skyline. Once considered a menace to society, Boomers—the rogue, human-like androids that wreaked havoc in Bubblegum Crisis—are now hailed as the saviors of the city, ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity. The Knight Sabers, once the last line of defense against Boomer mayhem, have disbanded, their leader Sylia Stingray seemingly vanished into thin air.
But peace never lasts long in cyberpunk worlds, does it? Soon, a mysterious group of power-suited mercenaries starts hunting down a revolutionary AI capable of reshaping reality. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Sylia reemerges from the shadows, pulling the Knight Sabers back together for one more mission. Armed with upgraded hard suits, the Sabers face a new conspiracy that feels suspiciously like the handiwork of an old enemy.
What’s Inside the Box?
This isn’t just a quick-and-dirty Blu-ray release—it’s a full-blown fan service package. Here’s what you’re getting:
- Liner Notes: Dive deeper into the world of Bubblegum Crash with background details and production tidbits.
- Bonus Features: Includes the original trailer and a behind-the-scenes look at the restoration process.
- Audio and Subtitles: Watch in crisp 1080p with multiple language options, including Japanese 2.0 LPCM, and choose from English (US and UK versions), Castilian Spanish, and German subtitles.
- Region Free: Yep, no matter where you’re watching from, this release has got you covered.
With its blend of classic cyberpunk aesthetics, mech battles, and a dose of ’90s anime nostalgia, this revamped Bubblegum Crash Blu-ray is more than just a re-release—it’s a love letter to the fans. Whether you’re a veteran Saber fan or a newcomer ready to plunge into MegaTokyo’s underworld, this is a must-have piece of anime history.
Ready to suit up?