What Younger Anime Fans Might Not Understand: Insights from Older Fans

Older anime fans often have a perspective shaped by the evolution of the medium, cultural references, and trends that younger fans might not fully grasp. Below are some key areas that younger fans may not fully understand:

Censorship and Localization

Older anime often underwent significant localization changes, including censorship of violence, nudity, and cultural references. For example, series like Fantasy Wars underwent major edits in localized versions to suit different regions' content guidelines.

OVA and VHS Culture

The original release formats such as OVAs (Original Video Animations) and VHS tapes were crucial in the 80s and 90s. Fans would collect VHS tapes, and OVAs were often seen as a way to explore niche stories without the constraints of broadcast television. Series like Ghost in the Shell were initially released in VHS format, allowing fans to experience them in their original form before being broadcasted.

Fandom and Fan Subbing

Before streaming services, fan-subbed versions were the primary way to access anime. Fans would painstakingly translate and subtitle episodes, leading to a tight-knit community that shared and discussed these translations. Series like Naruto (Viz Media subbed version) were built around fan sub communities, with fans eagerly awaiting each new episode release.

Cultural References

Many older anime series include references to Japanese pop culture, history, or folklore that might be lost on younger audiences. For instance, shows like Fullmetal Alchemist include nods to Japanese martial arts and historical figures, which might be unfamiliar to younger viewers who lack the same cultural background.

Art Style Evolution

The animation style has evolved significantly over the years. Older anime often featured different character designs, color palettes, and animation techniques that younger fans might find less appealing or harder to appreciate. For example, early Dragon Ball series were more subdued in colors and character design compared to the vibrant, modern style of the later installments.

Niche Genres and Tropes

Certain genres and tropes prevalent in older anime, like mecha or magical girl series, have evolved or fallen out of favor. Younger fans may not understand the significance of series like Mobile Suit Gundam, which introduced complex political and military themes in the mecha genre.

Community Events

Older fans often participated in conventions and fan meet-ups that were smaller and more intimate, focusing on sharing physical media, art, and fan fiction. The experience of these events has changed with the rise of online communities. While today's fans can easily connect through social media and online platforms, the tactile aspect of meeting other enthusiasts face-to-face is often missing.

Classic Series and Their Impact

Iconic series like Astro Boy and Rose of Versailles have had a profound impact on the anime industry, influencing generations of creators and fans. These classic works set new standards for storytelling, character development, and artistic expression.

Sub vs. Dub Debate

The long-standing debate over the merits of subbed versus dubbed anime is a topic of passionate discussion among older fans. These preferences often stem from early experiences with localized releases. For instance, language and pacing can vary significantly between subbed and dubbed versions, affecting the overall viewing experience.

Understanding these aspects can enhance younger fans' appreciation of anime's history and the vibrant community surrounding it. By delving into the origins and evolution of the medium, younger fans can gain a more comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the complex and nuanced world of anime.