Blue Submarine No. 6is a science fiction anime that stands out for its unique artistic style, environmental themes, and emotionally charged storytelling. Released in the late 1990s, it quickly gained attention for blending traditional 2D animation with early 3D CGI, offering viewers a visually distinct experience. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by climate disaster and war, the story follows a crew of submariners tasked with saving humanity from extinction. As they battle an army of genetically engineered sea creatures, they are forced to confront the moral implications of war, science, and survival. This anime blends action, philosophy, and innovative animation into a memorable narrative that continues to resonate with fans of classic sci-fi anime.
Background and Production
Blue Submarine No. 6is based on a manga series from the 1960s by Satoru Ozawa. The anime adaptation was produced by Studio Gonzo and released as a four-episode original video animation (OVA) between 1998 and 2000. It was directed by Mahiro Maeda and marked one of the studio’s first major projects that incorporated 3D CGI technology, making it a landmark in anime production techniques at the time.
The show received attention both domestically in Japan and internationally, especially in the United States where it aired on Cartoon Network’s Toonami block. The combination of stylized animation, underwater warfare, and philosophical depth helped it stand out in an era filled with traditional mecha and action anime.
Plot Summary
The story takes place in a future Earth that has been partially submerged due to global warming and rising sea levels. Civilization as we know it has collapsed, and the remnants of humanity now fight for survival. At the center of the conflict is a rogue scientist, Zorndyke, who has created a race of hybrid sea creatures to take back the Earth from humans, whom he blames for the planet’s destruction.
To stop Zorndyke’s assault, the human military forms the Blue Fleet, a special naval task force equipped with advanced submarines. Among them is the titular Blue Submarine No. 6, crewed by dedicated soldiers and scientists who aim to protect humanity while also understanding the enemy. The central characters, Tetsu Hayami and Mayumi Kino, play crucial roles in both the battles and the emotional core of the story.
Key Story Themes
Blue Submarine No. 6explores several major themes:
- Environmental collapse The anime is a cautionary tale about humanity’s impact on the Earth and the consequences of ignoring ecological warnings.
- Genetic engineering and ethics Zorndyke’s creations raise questions about the morality of altering life for ideological purposes.
- War and peace The series frequently questions the purpose and consequences of war, suggesting that empathy and understanding may be more powerful than weapons.
- Human identity and coexistence The show challenges the idea of what it means to be human, and whether peaceful coexistence with other beings is truly possible.
These ideas are presented through a mix of intense underwater battles, personal conflicts, and moments of quiet reflection.
Main Characters
Tetsu Hayami
Tetsu Hayami is a former naval officer who becomes involved with the Blue Fleet to help stop Zorndyke’s forces. Initially disillusioned with war and the military, Tetsu serves as the show’s moral compass. His inner conflict reflects the anime’s broader message about humanity’s capacity for change. As he grows closer to the enemy and questions the righteousness of his cause, Tetsu becomes a symbol of hope for reconciliation.
Mayumi Kino
Mayumi is a dedicated pilot and a member of Blue Submarine No. 6. She is passionate, professional, and driven by her duty to protect humanity. Her relationship with Tetsu evolves from cold professionalism to mutual respect and emotional connection. Mayumi embodies the human side of the war, showing how duty and empathy can exist side by side.
Verg
Verg is a humanoid hybrid created by Zorndyke. As a member of the enemy forces, he represents the gray area between villainy and humanity. Intelligent and calm, Verg questions the motivations of his creator and the purpose of war. His interactions with Tetsu reveal a desire for peace, suggesting that not all of Zorndyke’s creations agree with their mission.
Zorndyke
The enigmatic antagonist, Zorndyke, is a scientist who believes that humanity has failed Earth and should be replaced. His vision is radical and rooted in scientific brilliance, but his methods are ruthless. Despite his role as the main villain, Zorndyke is not portrayed as purely evil; his motives stem from a desire to restore balance to the planet. This complexity adds a philosophical layer to the conflict.
Animation and Visual Style
One of the most distinctive aspects ofBlue Submarine No. 6is its groundbreaking use of CGI. At a time when computer-generated graphics were still in their infancy in anime, Gonzo combined 2D character animation with 3D-rendered vehicles and backgrounds. The underwater scenes especially benefit from this approach, creating a sense of immersion and realism.
The color palette is often dark and muted, emphasizing the somber tone of the series. The contrast between cold, mechanical submarines and the organic, flowing movements of the sea creatures enhances the clash between technology and nature. While the CGI may appear dated today, it was revolutionary for its time and laid the groundwork for future anime productions that merged traditional and digital animation.
Soundtrack and Audio
The music inBlue Submarine No. 6is composed by the techno-jazz band The Thrill. The soundtrack combines jazz, electronic, and ambient styles, creating a futuristic yet emotional tone that supports the anime’s themes. The soundtrack is often praised for its originality and for enhancing the mood of both battle sequences and reflective scenes.
Voice acting in both the original Japanese and the English dub is strong, with each character given a unique and believable personality. The emotional performances help convey the weight of the story’s philosophical questions.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release,Blue Submarine No. 6was praised for its ambitious animation style and mature storytelling. While some viewers found the pacing uneven or the CGI jarring, others appreciated the show’s attempt to push artistic boundaries. Its broadcast on Toonami helped introduce a generation of Western viewers to more complex and experimental anime narratives.
Over time, it has gained cult status among fans of sci-fi anime. It remains a notable example of late 90s innovation and is often recommended for those interested in environmental storytelling and early digital animation in anime.
Blue Submarine No. 6is more than just a tale of war beneath the ocean’s surface. It’s a story about change personal, social, and environmental. Through its innovative animation, deep philosophical themes, and rich character development, the series invites viewers to question the nature of progress, the ethics of science, and the meaning of humanity. While it may not be as mainstream as other anime titles, its bold approach and emotional depth have earned it a lasting place in anime history. For fans of post-apocalyptic fiction, underwater warfare, and speculative science, this is a must-watch title that continues to hold relevance in today’s world.