වාරය
කථාංගය
ප්ලේයර් සේවාදායකය
Science Ninja Team Gatchaman
19728
සජීවීක්රියා සහ සాహසවිද්යාත්මක හා පරිභෝග
නිකුත් වීම
1972 ඔක් 01
රට
ජපානය
නිෂ්පාදන
King Features EntertainmentTatsunoko Production
Science Ninja Team Gatchaman is a five-member superhero team that is composed of the main characters in several anime created by Tatsuo Yoshida and originally produced in Japan by Tatsunoko Productions and later adapted into several English-language versions. It is also known by the abbreviated name Gatchaman.
The original series, produced in 1972, was eponymously named Kagaku Ninja Tai Gatchaman and is most well known to the English-speaking world as the adaptation titled Battle of the Planets. The series received additional English adaptations with G-Force: Guardians of Space and ADV Films' uncut 2005 release. Tatsunoko also uses the official translation Science Commando Gatchaman, as shown in numerous related products and media. Because the English-language versions are notoriously inconsistent not only with one another but also with the original Japanese series, viewers most familiar with the English versions often experience some confusion upon re-examining the series after a long hiatus.
The original 1972 Kagaku Ninja Tai Gatchaman series was followed by an animated film, two sequel series, Gatchaman II, and Gatchaman Fighter. In the 90's, episodes from both series were dubbed into English by Saban as Eagle Riders. In 1994, the original series was remade as a condensed OVA series.
About
Quick guide
Five young heroes team up to protect Earth from a secret alien organization in this 1972 Japanese classic.
Science Ninja Team Gatchaman follows Ken Washio, Joe Asakura, Jun, Jinpei, and Ryu as they pilot the God Phoenix and use their unique "Bird‑Style" techniques to fight Galactor. Set in a near‑future Earth, the series mixes high‑speed aerial combat with grounded teamwork. While the show tackles environmental and political themes, it remains family‑friendly and avoids graphic violence. Fans enjoy its mix of science‑fiction action, clear character roles, and a memorable theme song. The original series ran 105 episodes before spawning several sequels and English adaptations such as Battle of the Planets, G‑Force, and an uncut ADV release.
What to know
- The original Japanese title is Kagaku Ninja Tai Gatchaman.
- The team uses a modular aircraft called the God Phoenix.
- Villains are led by the alien‑controlled Galactor.
- Each member wields a bird‑themed weapon and a special move.
- Episodes often feature environmental warnings about resource depletion.
- The English version Battle of the Planets skipped 20 episodes.
- The ADV uncut release restores the original dialogue and scenes.
- The series has no known creator credited as director.
Watch if
If you enjoy team‑based sci‑fi with fast‑paced aerial battles, clear hero archetypes, and a clean, non‑violent storyline that still tackles political and environmental issues, Gatchaman offers an engaging, nostalgic adventure that balances action with heart.
Skip if
If you prefer mature, graphic or violent animation, or if you want complex political commentary with deep character arcs, this lightweight 1970s series may feel too simple and lacking in modern narrative depth.
fast pacedintense actionwar themespolitical themessuspensefuldark tonefamily friendlylight tone
Series Overview
The original 1972 anime follows five young pilots who form the Science Ninja Team Gatchaman to protect Earth from the secret organization Galactor. Their base, the God Phoenix, transforms into a bird‑shaped fighter, and each member has a signature bird‑named weapon. Episodes blend action, adventure, and subtle environmental warnings.
Characters & Roles
Ken Washio (G‑1) is the tactical leader; Joe Asakura (G‑2) is a skilled race car driver; Jun (G‑3) is an electronics expert; Jinpei (G‑4) is a child prodigy; and Ryu (G‑5) pilots the God Phoenix. Their bonds drive the team’s strategies, and each uses the “Bird‑Style” technique in combat.
Plot & Themes
The series centers on protecting global resources like water and oil from Galactor’s plans. Themes of environmental conservation, political intrigue, and unity are woven through missions. The team’s high‑speed aerial battles showcase science‑fiction elements while keeping action fast‑paced and suspenseful.
Adaptations & Dubs
Battle of the Planets (1978) and G‑Force: Guardians of Space (1987) are English dubs that removed 20 episodes, including episode 81. ADV’s 2005 release restores original dialogue and scenes, making it the most faithful version for new viewers.
Production & History
Tatsunoko Production produced the 105‑episode original run. Directed by an unknown, the series was later licensed to Sandy Frank, whose team added new segments for U.S. audiences. The show's 1970s aesthetic and modular mecha design influenced later Tokusatsu series.
Reception & Legacy
The series reached number ten on Animage’s best‑anime list in 2001 and inspired the Power Rangers franchise. It continues to attract fans through remastered releases and fan‑made merchandise, highlighting its lasting impact on global pop culture.
Fan Community & Myths
Fandoms have clarified long‑standing rumors about episode omissions, character ages, and alternate endings. The Misconceptions and Rumor Guide for Gatchaman documents popular myths, such as the missing episode 81 being skipped for religious reasons.
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FAQ
22 Q&A
What is the original Japanese title of Gatchaman?
The series is called Kagaku Ninja Tai Gatchaman in Japan. It was later released in the U.S. as Battle of the Planets and G‑Force.
How many episodes were in the original 1972 series?
The original run consisted of 105 episodes broadcast between 1972 and 1974 on Fuji Television.
Why were some episodes omitted from the English dubs?
The 1987 G‑Force dub omitted 20 episodes, including episode 81, due to content deemed unsuitable for younger audiences, such as violence and religious references【1†L1927-L1934】.
What is the God Phoenix?
The God Phoenix is the modular aircraft that serves as the team’s primary vehicle. It can transform into a bird‑shaped fighter for high‑speed combat.
What weapons does Ken use?
Ken, the team leader, wields a boomerang known as the Bird‑rang, used in conjunction with the Bird‑Style technique to perform aerial maneuvers.
Is the series suitable for children?
Yes, the original anime is family‑friendly, avoiding graphic violence and focusing on teamwork and environmental protection.
What are the main themes of Gatchaman?
The series explores environmental conservation, political intrigue, and the moral responsibility of protecting Earth’s resources while maintaining a light, adventurous tone.
How did Gatchaman influence Power Rangers?
Power Rangers was adapted from the Japanese Super Sentai series, which itself was influenced by Gatchaman’s concept of a five‑member team of color‑coded heroes fighting monsters.
What is the ADV uncut release?
ADV Films released an uncut, faithful English dub in 2005 that restored original dialogue and scenes missing from earlier adaptations【1†L43-L48】.
Do the characters age over the series?
The characters remain essentially the same age throughout the 105‑episode run, with Ken and Joe at 18, Jun at 16, Jinpei at 10‑11, and Ryu at 17.
Are there any spin‑offs or sequels?
Yes, sequels include Gatchaman II (1978) and Gatchaman Fighter (1979), which continue the story with new threats and upgraded mecha.
What is the plot of episode 81?
Episode 81, titled “The Dark Sword of Galactor,” was omitted from the G‑Force dub but exists in the original Japanese broadcast, featuring a confrontation between the team and a new villain.
Did the English adaptations add new scenes?
The Battle of the Planets adaptation added new footage, such as a robot character, to fill gaps created by the removal of certain episodes, altering the storyline slightly.
Is the team’s technology realistic?
The series uses imaginative science‑fiction elements like the Bird‑Style technique and the God Phoenix, blending futuristic gadgets with traditional ninja skills.
What is the significance of the Bird‑Style technique?
Bird‑Style is a martial art that allows each member to perform high‑speed, bird‑like attacks, emphasizing agility and coordination in combat.
How does Gatchaman address environmental issues?
Episodes often involve threats to Earth’s natural resources, such as water or oil, prompting the team to protect and preserve these essential elements.
What is the relationship between Ken and Jun?
Ken and Jun share a mutual respect; Jun often expresses admiration for Ken’s leadership, while Ken appreciates Jun’s technical expertise.
Who is the main antagonist?
The primary antagonist group is Galactor, led by the alien Leader X, who seeks to control Earth's resources and threaten humanity.
Are there any modern remakes?
A 2013 live‑action film titled Battle of the Planets was announced by AGBO Studios, though it remains in development.
Is there a definitive ending to the original series?
The final episode concludes with a dramatic showdown, but it leaves some plot threads open, encouraging fan speculation about the team’s future.
What are the major differences between G‑Force and the original?
G‑Force removed 20 episodes, altered character names, and inserted new segments, resulting in a different pacing and narrative structure compared to the original Japanese version.
Does the series contain any graphic violence?
The show avoids graphic violence; while battles are intense, injuries are rarely depicted in a gruesome manner.
නළු නිළියෝ
Katsuji Mori
Ken Washio, the Eagle (voice)
Isao Sasaki
Joe Asakura, the Condor (voice)
Kazuko Sugiyama
Jun, the Swan (voice)
Yoku Shioya
Jinpei, the Swallow (voice)
Shingo Kanemoto
Ryu Nakanishi, the Horned Owl (voice)
Nobuo Tanaka
Leader X (voice)
Hisayoshi Yoshizawa
Red Impulse (voice)
Tōru Ōhira
Dr. Kouzaburou Nambu (voice)
Aiko Konoshima
Female Berg Katze (voice)
Masako Nozawa
Seiji Nakanishi (voice)
Kyoko Terase
Joe's mother (voice)
Teiji Ōmiya
Director Anderson (voice)