Obsolete is a mecha anime that BANDAI NAMCO debuted exclusively on YouTube. It is unlike the 2D art style commonly used in anime and extensively uses 3D and CGI styles.
Many would say that the anime looks lifeless because of the CGI, but if you are a fan of tech battles, then you should definitely give it a try.
Episode 1 will dupe you into believing that it is simply a mecha warfare series, but only in episode 1 will you realize that humans didn’t even create the technology used in battles.
An alien subplot is introduced where they trade limestone for technology with no interest in discrimination or violence. The beautiful twist is when you realize why the anime is called Obsolete. The aliens might merely be trading their junk, used, or defective technology with Earthlings to receive what they need for sustenance.
The biggest irony is that these aliens, who are never even shown in the series, change humanity’s fate by simply introducing their obsolete technology.
Read on to learn more about Obsolete and more updates on its second season.
The Storyline of Obsolete Anime
The plot of Obsolete begins in 2014 when alien life makes contact with humans for the first time. They had one simple demand: to trade limestone in exchange for technology. The technology they offered was highly efficient and could be manned by humans by attaching them to one’s psyche.
Eventually, these machines, called Exo-frames, began to be used in different fields, which included the battlefield. Since the price was mere limestone, trades happened frequently, and the exo-frames became readily available. However, the conflict between different factions among humans got worse as these machines increased the destruction on battlefields.
What Happened at the End of Obsolete?
Episode 12 of Obsolete, titled ‘Konoko Kokonoha,’ showed the titular character having a battle with her two friends. Episode 12 is the final episode of Obsolete Season 1.
The episode begins by showing two Exo-frames battling each other. The wielders seem to know each other and are reluctant to fight, but they belong to different factions and thus have to defeat each other.
Konoko manages to defeat her opponent, Mikoto, when a flashback shows that they have both been friends since school, along with another girl, Nanami. As Mikoto’s body gets pulled in by the Earth’s gravity, Konoko tries to save her but is stopped by Nanami, who also possesses an Exo-frame.
It is revealed that Nanami had a crush on Konoko but could never be with her, so she wants to defeat her to own the girl. However, we never see the end of the battle, as the episode ends with a ‘To be Continued’ sign.
Is Obsolete Renewed for Season 2?
No, Obsolete hasn’t been renewed for a second season yet, and will most probably never receive one. Bandai Namco has made no announcements on its sequel so far, but you can wait around for a new announcement.
Obsolete also has a manga counterpart by Sono, and it was launched in September 2020. The manga contains more details about the world affected by Exo-frames. It shows several scenes that are not present in the anime as well as the societal impact of alien technology. The manga also has a spinoff.
Thus, there might be enough material for a second season, but its lack of popularity might have stopped further production.
How Many Episodes of Obsolete Are There?
Obsolete was released in two parts and has 12 episodes in total. The first six episodes were streamed on December 3, 2019, and the last six were streamed precisely a year later, on December 1, 2020.
Besides the 12 episodes, Obsolete has not been renewed for a sequel, so further episodes have not been announced yet.
Where to Watch Obsolete Anime?
You can watch Obsolete on YouTube, where all of its full episodes can be streamed. Click here to find its entire playlist.
Well, Have you seen Obsolete? Do you think Bandai Namco will renew a season 2?