Mini Van

みにヴぁん / Mini Vanguard
Mini Van
Genres: Comedy, Parody, Strategy Game
Themes: Parody, Strategy Game
Studios: DLE
Rating: 6.7 / 10
Rank: #6019
Popularity: #11508
Users Listed: 2,451
Users Scored: 873
NSFW: No
Last Updated: 09/11/2022
Aired: April 6, 2013 – December 14, 2013 (Spring)
Type: tv
Source: 4 Koma Manga
Age Rating: PG 13
Episodes: 37
Broadcast: Saturday at 08:00 (JST)

Synopsis:

Set in a near-future world grappling with ecological collapse, *Mini Vanguard* follows a group of young individuals chosen to pilot powerful, bio-engineered mecha known as "Vanguards." These pilots are tasked with reclaiming desolate landscapes and cultivating life in a rapidly changing environment. The series explores the complex relationship between humanity and nature, examining themes of responsibility, adaptation, and the sacrifices required for survival.

The narrative centers on the personal journeys of the pilots as they confront not only external threats – mutated creatures and environmental hazards – but also internal struggles with duty, loss, and the weight of their inherited mission. Visually distinct mecha designs and detailed world-building create a contemplative atmosphere, offering a nuanced perspective on humanity's place in a fragile ecosystem. The series balances action sequences with character-driven moments, fostering thoughtful consideration of the future.

Episodes:

  • Episode 1: The Many Faces of Cardfight (Aired: 04/06/2013)
  • Episode 2: Episode 2 (Aired: 04/13/2013)
  • Episode 3: Yes, My Vanguard (Aired: 04/20/2013)
  • Episode 4: Episode 4 (Aired: 04/27/2013)
  • Episode 5: Episode 5 (Aired: 05/04/2013)
  • ... and 31 more episodes

Characters:

  • Kai, Toshiki (Main) - Voice Actors: Satou, Takuya
  • Katsuragi, Kamui (Main) - Voice Actors: Ishikawa, Shizuka
  • Sendou, Aichi (Main) - Voice Actors: Yonaga, Tsubasa
  • Tokura, Misaki (Main) - Voice Actors: Kitta, Izumi
  • Izaki, Yuuta (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Yamaguchi, Takayuki
  • Miwa, Taishi (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Morikubo, Shoutarou
  • Morikawa, Katsumi (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Sugiyama, Noriaki
  • Narumi, Asaka (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Nabatame, Hitomi
  • Nitta, Shin (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Morishima, Shuuta
  • Sendou, Emi (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Enomoto, Atsuko
  • Shinjou, Tetsu (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Inada, Tetsu
  • Suzugamori, Ren (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Abe, Atsushi
  • Tatsunagi, Kourin (Supporting)
  • Yahagi, Kyou (Supporting) - Voice Actors: Watanabe, Akeno

Staff:

  • Tani, Azuma (Director)
  • Mizoguchi, Takaki (Theme Song Lyrics)
  • Fujitsuka (Key Animation)
  • Uchiyama, Midori (Character Design)

Reviews:

  • User HikaruShidou (Score: 8/10):
    If you're a fan of the characters in the original Cardfight Vanguard, and you like comedy, then you might end up enjoying this adorable little series. Each episode is really short, so it's easy to watch the series even when busy. So, the story is pretty non-existent. But it's understandable because it's supposed to be just the daily lives of the characters. The characters are however all very hilarious and likeable in this one. In fact, I like Toshiki Kai in this particular series more than the original (you get to see Kai sneeze in this one). You need to be able to have at leastseen the first season before watching this in order to get some of the jokes. If you watched the first season and like it, give this one a go! :D

Related Anime/Manga:

  • Mini Van 2nd Season (anime - Sequel)
  • Mini Van (manga - Adaptation)
  • Mini Van Special (anime - Side Story)
  • Cardfight!! Vanguard (anime - Other)
  • Mini Van Large (anime - Other)