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Gatchaman II
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Gatchaman II
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Gatchaman II
Cover of the complete DVD box set
科学忍者隊ガッチャマンII
GenreAdventure, science fiction
Created byTatsuo Yoshida
Directed byHiroshi Sasagawa
Music by
Country of originJapan
Original languageJapanese
No. of episodes52[1] (list of episodes)
Production
Executive producers
Producers
Production companies
Original release
NetworkFNS (Fuji TV)
ReleaseOctober 1, 1978 (1978-10-01) –
September 23, 1979 (1979-09-23)

Gatchaman II (科学忍者隊ガッチャマンII, Kagaku Ninjatai Gatchaman Tsū; Science Ninja Team Gatchaman II) is the direct sequel to Science Ninja Team Gatchaman, set two years after the first television series. After the defeat of Leader X, he exacts his revenge by capturing, brainwashing and mutating a young intersex child known as Sammy into Giersadora and making them the new leader of Galactor and successor to Berg Katze. While Galactor returns, Dr. Nambu and the International Science Organization bring the Science Ninja Team Gatchaman back into active duty.[2][3][4] This series and Gatchaman F would be the basis of the English-language version named Eagle Riders. Sentai Filmworks has licensed the series and released the complete series on DVD on April 18, 2017.[5]

Plot

[edit]

Two years after the defeat of Galactor and the apparent death of Condor Joe, a cruise ship is attacked by Leader X, killing nearly everyone on board. One of the survivors, a young child known as Sammy, whose gender is purposefully left ambiguous, but is implied to be a hermaphrodite, is captured by X and rapidly aged into the bizarre and androgynous new commander of Galactor, known as Giersadora, acting as a replacement for Berg Katze from the first series after his suicide. Though they have the appearance of an adult, Giersadora is not immune to throwing childish tantrums and behaving immaturely when things don't go according to plan.

In the midst of the revival of Galactor, the Science Ninja Team is called back into action, with a shady man known as Hawk Getz acting as the replacement for Joe. Getz is quickly revealed to be a Galactor agent in disguise (and had killed the actual Getz who was to join), and winds up killed by a mysterious feather shuriken. After hints spread in the first three episodes, Joe reappears in the fourth episode, having somehow survived his fatal injuries at the end of the first series, and rejoins the team. It is later revealed that he was rescued by an ex-Galactor scientist at the brink of his death, and was the subject of various cybernetic augmentations.

Later in the series, a female scientist known as Dr. Pandora is introduced, who had lost her husband and child in the cruise ship disaster. Unbeknownst to her, her child Sammie survived and is in fact Giersadora.[6]

With the new series, the characters were given new mecha and weapons, the space-worthy New GodPhoenix and individual mecha all given a noticeable bird motif. The New GodPhoenix is larger than the original, and equipped with "Pima" a robot pilot. There were also minor design changes to some characters, to go along with the new animation style (Jun's hair became shorter and straighter, in one example). The characters also advanced two years in age, Jinpei now approximately thirteen years old.[7][8]

Episodes

[edit]
Main article: List of Gatchaman II episodes

Characters

[edit]

Production

[edit]

Following the first feature film of the original Gatchaman in 1978, and a radio show of the series which previewed some of the new installments, the sequel series was released on October 1, the same date as the original series broadcast in 1972. It ran for 52 episodes, and was immediately followed up by the third and final series, Gatchaman Fighter.[10]

Though neither of the sequels were licensed and adapted by Sandy Frank, some Gatchaman II merchandise was sold under the Battle of the Planets name, most notably the New GodPhoenix model, causing confusion for those who had seen the English adaptation.

Adaptations and changes

[edit]

In 1978, the original Gatchaman was released in South Korea. In 1980, a compilation film called Eagle 5 Brothers (독수리 5 형제, Dokksuri Hyeongje) was made based on Gatchaman II and Fighter. The episodes were later released to South Korea in 1996. Both versions of Eagle 5 Brothers weren't censored. However, there were subtle changes made that are characteristic of remastering which included different hair colors, uniforms, and a complete redesign of Dr. Pandora's child as a boy, despite their gender in the original being left ambiguous. Eagle 5 Brothers was also dubbed into Spanish and released as "Space Heroes" ("Heroes del Espacio"), and alternatively released under other titles including; "Space General Hero", "The Five Eagle Stars" ("Las Cinco Estrellas del Aguila"), and "Five Star Combat Group".

In 1996, Gatchaman II was licensed by Saban Entertainment and combined with the third series, Gatchaman F (Fighter), to create Eagle Riders. 47 of the 52 episodes of the series were translated in the adaptation, though heavily edited to remove violence and other elements found objectionable.[11] Episodes 6, 16-17, 28, and 35 were not used in the translation, and episode 21 (Youth's Broken Wings) was moved and aired in place of the original episode 6 (Attack Of The Pyramid Power).

Elements removed from the series included the Queen Margaret cruise ship disaster in the first episode, along with the transformation of Sammie Pandora into Giersadora (called Mallanox in the dub and initially stated as being male). Scenes depicting destruction in cities were also edited to remove references to death, and the Galactor soldiers (now christened Vorak) were said to be androids and would be "deactivated" instead of having been killed. Character names were Westernized in the dub, as well as the entire soundtrack being changed.

To segue the two series together, Giersadora's death at the end of Gatchaman II was edited and rewritten so that instead of dying, "Mallanox" is instead transformed further by Cybercon (Leader X) into a new form called Happy Boy (originally Count Egobossler, the nemesis in F).

Eagle Riders only had 13 episodes broadcast in the US, as the translation and editing were reviled by fans of Gatchaman, and the Saban adaptation was pulled from airwaves soon afterwards, not having been seen since.

On December 20, 2016, Sentai Filmworks announced their license for the series. They released an uncut, subtitled DVD set on April 18, 2017.[5] This set is now out of print and no longer available directly from Sentai.

References

[edit]

Further reading

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Gatchaman II

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Gatchaman II (科学忍者隊ガッチャマンII, Kagaku Ninjatai Gatchaman Tsū) is a Japanese anime television series produced by Tatsunoko Production as the direct sequel to the 1972 original Science Ninja Team Gatchaman. The 52-episode action-adventure sci-fi series originally aired on Fuji Television from October 1, 1978, to September 23, 1979. Set two years after the defeat of the alien leader Sosai X in the first series, Gatchaman II follows the reactivation of the International Science Organization's elite ninja team to combat the revived extraterrestrial threat. Sosai X crashes into an ocean liner upon returning to Earth, mutating a young orphan girl into the monstrous Gel Sadra, who becomes the new leader of the terrorist organization Gallactor. The team faces additional challenges with the shocking return of Joe Asakura (the Condor), resurrected as a cyborg after his apparent death in the original series. The series was chiefly directed by Hisayuki Toriumi, with series direction by Hiroshi Sasagawa. It features the returning voice cast from the original, including Katsuji Mori as Ken the Eagle, as Joe the Condor, Kazuko Sugiyama as Jun the Swan, as Jinpei the Swallow, and Mikio Terashima as Ryu the Owl. Musical direction was provided by Hiroshi Tsutsui, with theme songs performed by artists such as . Gatchaman II explores darker themes than its predecessor, including cybernetic resurrection and the psychological toll of endless conflict, while maintaining the franchise's blend of ninja action and mecha elements through the team's bird-themed vehicles and the God Phoenix aircraft. In 1996, Saban Entertainment licensed Gatchaman II and its follow-up Gatchaman Fighter to create the 65-episode Western adaptation Eagle Riders, though only 13 episodes aired in the United States. Sentai Filmworks later released the series on DVD in North America in 2017, making it more accessible to international audiences.

Overview and production

Background and development

The original Science Ninja Team Gatchaman series concluded its run on Fuji Television in 1974 after 105 episodes, having achieved significant popularity as one of Tatsunoko Production's flagship anime properties. This success, coupled with ongoing fan demand, prompted Tatsunoko to plan a revival of the franchise after a four-year hiatus, aiming to capitalize on the enduring appeal of its superhero ninja team concept amid a shifting anime landscape. Gatchaman II was conceived as a direct set two years after the events of the original series, addressing unresolved threats through the return of the alien antagonist Leader X (Sosai X) and the subsequent revival of the Galactor organization. Development was overseen by Tatsunoko executives including Kenji Yoshida, brother of the franchise's creator , who had died of in September 1977 shortly before pre-production began; the project served as a symbolic continuation of Tatsuo's vision for escalating global-scale conflicts between human defenders and extraterrestrial invaders. Central to the planning was the introduction of new antagonistic elements, such as Giersadora—a mutated human leader created by Leader X to helm the revitalized Galactor—and Hawk Getz, positioned as an interim member of the Science Ninja Team to fill a key vacancy while maintaining the core dynamics of the ninja operatives. To heighten the stakes, the narrative incorporated advanced like the New God Phoenix, an upgraded vehicle designed for superior combat capabilities against intensified threats, ensuring the sequel built upon the original's blend of and team-based action without altering its foundational team structure. Pre-production and announcement occurred in early 1978, with the series premiering on October 1, 1978, reflecting Tatsunoko's strategic push to reassert its presence in the action anime genre following the success of contemporary super robot series.

Production staff and changes

Gatchaman II was produced by Tatsunoko Production and broadcast on Fuji TV from October 1, 1978, to September 23, 1979, consisting of 52 episodes designed for weekly serialization. The series served as a direct sequel to the original Science Ninja Team Gatchaman, building on its established framework while introducing key personnel shifts following the death of original creator Tatsuo Yoshida in 1977. Chief direction was handled by Hisayuki Toriumi, who had directed the original series, while episode direction fell primarily to Hiroshi Sasagawa as series director. Series composition involved multiple writers, including Jinzō Toriumi for 10 episodes and Yū Yamamoto for 14, emphasizing narrative continuity with the predecessor. Character designs were led by Ippei Kuri, who took over main responsibilities after Yoshida's passing, with contributions from and Takada to refine the visual style for the sequel. Mechanical designs, including new vehicles for the Science Ninja Team, were crafted by Kunio Ōkawara, introducing updated elements to distinguish the production from the original's assets. Art direction was overseen by Mitsuki Nakamura, maintaining Tatsunoko's signature detailed backgrounds amid the studio's evolving workflow. These staff choices reflected a blend of returning talent from the original—such as Toriumi's oversight—to ensure familiarity, alongside fresh inputs to adapt to post-Yoshida creative dynamics. To evolve the narrative from the original series, Gatchaman II adopted a darker tone, incorporating more mature themes such as cybernetic resurrection and psychological strain on the protagonists, exemplified by Joe the Condor's survival through mechanical enhancements after his apparent death in the predecessor. This shift aimed at deeper character exploration while retaining the core conflict against Galactor, differentiating it from the original's lighter episodic structure. Pacing was tightened through a standard 52-episode run, allowing for serialized arcs rather than the original's extended 105-episode format, which facilitated more focused storytelling without altering individual runtime. Production efficiency was prioritized via selective reuse of animation assets from the original Gatchaman, particularly for recurring action sequences and team transformations, to manage costs in an era of expanding output. New designs, such as the New God Phoenix—a versatile combining the team's individual vehicles—were introduced to refresh visuals and emphasize elaborate transformation mechanics, setting it apart from the prior God Phoenix while building on established aesthetics. These modifications highlighted a narrative evolution toward intensified space-based threats and team dynamics. The production faced challenges typical of the late 1970s anime industry, including animator shortages and compressed schedules driven by rising demand for television series, which Tatsunoko navigated by leveraging its experienced in-house team and select animation tasks. Balancing returning elements like core character arcs with innovative story components, such as Joe's cybernetic role, required careful integration amid the era's shift toward and sci-fi genres, ensuring the sequel aligned with evolving viewer expectations without alienating original fans.

Story elements

Plot summary

Gatchaman II is set two years after the conclusion of the original Science Ninja Team Gatchaman series, where the team had disbanded following their apparent victory over Galactor. The story opens with Leader X, presumed destroyed, returning to Earth and crashing into an ocean liner, where he mutates a four-year-old intersex child named Sammy into the monstrous Gel Sadra, appointing the creature as Galactor's new commander. In response to Galactor's resurgence, Dr. Nambu reactivates the disbanded Science Ninja Team, equipping them with the upgraded New God Phoenix vehicle to counter the escalating threats. A central conflict arises with the introduction of Hawk Getz as a temporary team leader and replacement for the presumed-dead Joe the Condor, amid global attacks involving massive and environmental devastation by Galactor forces. The narrative explores themes of the revival of vanquished evils, the team's enduring resilience—particularly highlighted by Joe's miraculous return from near-death as a —and the ambiguous boundary between humanity and monstrosity embodied in villains like Gel Sadra. The arc progresses from reestablishing the team's unity in early confrontations, to mid-series tensions involving internal doubts and betrayals, culminating in a direct showdown with Leader X. The resolution delivers partial victories against Galactor but leaves ongoing threats unresolved, setting the stage for the subsequent series Gatchaman Fighter.

Characters

The Science Ninja Team in Gatchaman II consists of five young operatives trained as to combat the resurgent Galactor organization, building on their established roles from the original series while facing new personal and team dynamics in the . Ken the Eagle (G-1) serves as the strategic pilot and unwavering leader of the team, bearing the heavy burden of command after the group's temporary disbandment following the events of the first series. His personality remains quick-witted and charismatic, yet the emphasizes his internal struggles with isolation and the weight of responsibility, often finding solace in solo flights to test new . As the eldest at 20, Ken's noble drive to restore global peace intensifies, marked by his risk-taking nature and occasional romantic ineptitude. Joe the Condor (G-2) acts as the team's second-in-command and vengeful fighter, returning after his in the original series through cybernetic implants that augment his already formidable combat skills. These enhancements, courtesy of a former Galactor scientist, fuel his rage-driven arcs, portraying him as a tragic, impulsive who feels more machine than man, channeling his impatience and marksmanship into self-sacrificial missions. At 19, Joe's troubled background as the son of a murdered ISO executive deepens his nihilistic edge, making him a volatile to Ken's stability. Jun the Swan (G-3) functions as the team's mechanic and versatile operative, with an expanded role in providing emotional support amid the sequel's heightened tensions, including subtle romantic hints toward Ken that underscore her compassionate side. A strong-willed independent at 17, she excels in explosives, computer hacking, and gadgetry, running her own bar as a cover while treating the team like family—particularly her adopted brother Jinpei. Her "modern gal" demeanor adds resourcefulness, though her affections occasionally shift toward Joe in this series. Jinpei the Swallow (G-4) operates as the agile young scout, showing slight maturation in his loyalty and gadget-handling abilities as the team reunites against renewed threats. At 11, his bright, obnoxious humor and penchant for bad puns provide levity, often partnering with Ryu for comedic relief, though his childlike tendencies—like adopting stray animals—persist, reflecting his role as the team's energetic kid brother. Jinpei's deadly skills belie his playful personality, emphasizing unwavering devotion to his surrogate family. Ryu the Owl (G-5) embodies the team's pilot and physical powerhouse, offering through his poor luck with women and voracious appetite while demonstrating expertise with the upgraded New God Phoenix vehicle. The 18-year-old's steadfast, simple "country boy" persona shines in his love for the and reliable support, portraying him as the grounded muscle who keeps the team steady during high-stakes maneuvers. Among the antagonists, Gel Sadra emerges as a tragic villain, mutated from a young child named by Leader X's brainwashing and rapid aging process, retaining human remnants like childish tantrums that humanize her ruthless command of Galactor. As the new sub-leader replacing Berg Katse, her androgynous cunning drives the organization's schemes, marked by immature outbursts despite her imposing adult form as Dr. Pandora's daughter. Berg Katse returns in a diminished capacity as Galactor's subgeneral, his mastery of disguise and gender-shifting mutations overshadowed by Gel Sadra's rise, though his manipulative tricks and escape artistry persist under Leader X's oversight. The mutant creation of fused twins continues as a supporting schemer, his occasionally probed by the heroes. Leader X remains the overarching alien force, an extraterrestrial entity from the planet Selectol in the Andromeda who manipulates Galactor from afar with cold, holographic precision to conquer . In the sequel, operating from a regenerated, compact form after his prior defeat, Leader X orchestrates mutations and global threats, embodying unrelenting extraterrestrial ambition. Supporting the team, Dr. Nambu continues as the stern mentor and ISO chief scientist, dispatching the ninjas with ruthless discipline and wisdom honed from adopting and training them since youth. His physically tough guidance proves crucial in reactivating the team against Galactor's return. Hawk Getz appears as a mysterious interim figure, initially positioned as Joe's replacement from the but revealed as a Galactor imposter who infiltrates the team, blurring lines between ally and enemy through deception and betrayal. The real Getz, a loyal operative, dies warning of the plot, adding layers of intrigue to Galactor's human elements.

Media aspects

Voice cast

The voice cast for Gatchaman II (1978–1979) primarily featured the returning actors from the original series (1972–1974), ensuring continuity in character portrayals across the 52-episode run produced by . This reprise allowed for familiar vocal interpretations while adapting to the sequel's darker tone and evolving storylines, with recordings handled at Tatsunoko's studios to maintain synchronization during action and transformation sequences. Key members of the Science Ninja Team were voiced as follows, with actors delivering performances that emphasized leadership, resilience, and team dynamics suited to their bird-themed roles:
CharacterVoice ActorNotes
Ken the Eagle (G-1) / Ken WashioKatsuji MoriReturning role; provided a commanding, resolute tone for the team leader's strategic decisions and aerial combat scenes.
Joe the Condor (G-2) / Joe AsakuraIsao SasakiReturning role; infused a grittier, determined edge reflecting the character's cybernetic enhancements and vengeful arc post-resurrection.
Jun the Swan (G-3)Kazuko SugiyamaReturning role; added layers of emotional vulnerability and relational tension in interpersonal team moments.
Jinpei the Swallow (G-4)Yoku ShioyaReturning role; captured youthful exuberance with subtle maturing nuances amid high-stakes missions.
Ryu the Owl (G-5)Shingo KanemotoReturning role; delivered robust, grounded vocals for piloting and brute-force action sequences.
Supporting characters included:
  • Dr. Kozaburo Nambu (mentor and scientist): Tōru Ōhira, reprising his authoritative guidance in advisory capacities.
  • Berg Katse (Galactor commander, dual-gendered): Mikio Terashima (primary male form), with Aiko Konoshima handling female presentations; versatile shifts highlighted the character's mutable identity.
  • Leader X / Sosai X (alien overlord): Nobuo Tanaka, returning with an ominous, otherworldly timbre for manipulative directives.
  • Gel Sadra (Giersadora) (new Galactor leader, human/monster duality): Masaru Ikeda, introducing contrasting tones for its deceptive human guise and monstrous revelations.
Minor Galactor roles and extras were frequently voiced by recurring talents such as Minoru Inaba and , contributing to the series' ensemble of antagonistic forces. No major cast changes occurred for team, preserving vocal consistency that fans associated with the franchise.

Music and themes

The music for Gatchaman II was primarily composed by Bob Sakuma, who returned from the original series to create the background score, blending orchestral elements for action sequences with electronic synth accents to heighten tension during Galactor confrontations. Sakuma produced over 40 original tracks for the sequel, incorporating dynamic cues that supported the series' high-stakes battles and character-driven drama, while drawing on his signature style of rhythmic percussion and brass-driven motifs to evoke urgency and heroism. The opening theme, "Warera Gatchaman" (We Are Gatchaman), featured an upbeat rock arrangement with lyrics emphasizing the team's renewed resolve and unity, performed by alongside the Columbia Yurikago-kai children's chorus. This energetic track, composed by Asei Kobayashi and arranged by Bob Sakuma, set a motivational tone for the series' episodes, contrasting the original's more exploratory vibe with a focus on revival and combat readiness. The ending theme, "Ashita Yumemite" (Dream of Tomorrow), adopted a reflective style, sung by and , with lyrics touching on hope amid adversity to underscore the emotional weight of the team's struggles. Insert songs further enriched key dramatic moments, such as "Yomigaere Arukidase Joe no Uta" (Revive and Walk Joe's Song), a solo by that highlighted Joe Asakura's resurrection and inner turmoil, composed by with tense, building orchestration to mirror his vengeful arc. The soundtrack retained iconic motifs from the original series, including the triumphant transformation fanfare, while introducing fresh compositions like soaring cues for the New God Phoenix's maneuvers and dissonant, eerie synth layers for the Gel Sadra's (Giersadora) schemes, enhancing the sequel's intensified narrative pace. The original soundtrack album, Kagaku Ninjatai Gatchaman II Hit Song Collection, was released by Nippon Columbia on , 1979, compiling vocal themes, insert songs, and select BGM tracks on vinyl, capturing the series' blend of rock-infused anthems and atmospheric scores. Later compilations, including a dedicated BGM CD by Be! Smile in and broader Gatchaman song collections in the , made the full instrumental library accessible, preserving Sakuma's contributions for modern audiences. Overall, amplified Gatchaman II's darker thematic undertones through accelerated battle tempos and brooding villain motifs, distinguishing it from the original's lighter exploratory sound while reinforcing the science ninja team's resilient spirit.

Episodes and releases

Episode structure

Gatchaman II consists of 52 episodes, each running approximately 24 minutes in length. The series follows a consistent episodic format that builds on the original Science Ninja Team Gatchaman, typically opening with a teaser depicting a Galactor-initiated crisis or plot, such as environmental disasters or technological threats. This is followed by a team briefing at the ISO headquarters or G-Town, where Dr. Nambu outlines the mission and strategies for the Science Ninja Team. The core action segment involves the team's deployment, featuring bird-scramble transformations and battles against Galactor's monster-of-the-week mecha. Episodes conclude with a cliffhanger resolution and a moral coda emphasizing themes like teamwork, sacrifice, or ethical dilemmas. The narrative is structured around three major arcs, integrating episodic adventures with overarching serialization. Episodes 1–10 focus on reintroducing the team, establishing early threats from the revived Leader X, introducing Hawk Getz as a temporary G-2 member before his betrayal is revealed, and the resurrection of Joe Asakura as a . Mid-series episodes 11–30 escalate conflicts with Hawk Getz's lingering influence, deeper explorations of Galactor's schemes, and Joe's internal struggles with his nature. The final arc, spanning episodes 31–52, builds toward a climactic confrontation with Leader X, incorporating the Solar Shift Plan and resolutions to character arcs like Gel Sadra's redemption. Common elements across episodes include high-stakes mecha battles against Galactor's biomechanical monsters, the iconic team transformation sequence into bird-themed ninja suits, and recurring environmental or ethical themes, such as plots involving pollution, resource exploitation, or the consequences of unchecked technology. These motifs underscore the series' emphasis on protecting Earth's ecosystems and humanity's moral responsibilities. Compared to the original series, Gatchaman II features greater serialization through the persistent Joe Asakura storyline—detailing his cybernetic enhancements and personal vendetta against Leader X—resulting in fewer standalone filler episodes and a tighter narrative progression. Additionally, the sequel heightens psychological elements in villainy, particularly with Gel Sadra's tragic backstory as a mutated child leader, adding layers of manipulation and identity crisis absent in the more straightforward antagonists of the predecessor. Episode numbering aligns closely with production order (1–52), with only minor shuffles in air order to optimize pacing, as seen in the straightforward titling of the premiere , "Gatchaman II." This structure evolves the original formula by blending self-contained monster confrontations with serialized progression, enhancing dramatic tension across the season.

Broadcast history and home media

Gatchaman II premiered on Fuji TV in Japan on October 1, 1978, airing Sundays from 6:00 to 6:30 PM until September 30, 1979, for a total of 52 episodes (53 broadcasts due to a re-air of episode 28 on August 19, 1979). The series directly followed the original Science Ninja Team Gatchaman and was succeeded by Gatchaman Fighter in the same time slot starting October 7, 1979. During its run, one episode was re-aired on August 19, 1979, due to scheduling. The show achieved significant viewership, with the premiere episode drawing a 25.9% household rating according to Video Research data, ranking second among new programs that month. Its popularity was further amplified by merchandise tie-ins, including action figures and vehicles from Bandai, which capitalized on the franchise's established fanbase. Internationally, Gatchaman II saw limited but notable broadcasts in the . In , the series was licensed separately from the original and aired on starting in 1983, featuring an Italian dub while retaining much of the original content. Re-runs in occurred sporadically in the on various channels, including broadcasts, preserving the uncut format for nostalgic audiences. For home media, Tatsunoko Production's sequels, including Gatchaman II, received limited releases until the . In , TC Entertainment issued a Blu-ray edition as part of the "Natsukashii Anime Library" series on September 28, 2018, offering the full 52 episodes in high definition. In , licensed the series and released the complete collection on DVD on April 18, 2017, presenting it uncut with English subtitles for the first time in the region. Earlier efforts by ADV Films in the focused on VHS releases of the original Gatchaman series, which were partial and included edits for Western audiences, but did not extend to Gatchaman II. As of 2025, Gatchaman II is not widely available on major streaming platforms like Crunchyroll or HIDIVE, though the 2017 Sentai license has facilitated digital access in select regions via on-demand services.

Adaptations and legacy

International adaptations

In the United States, Gatchaman II was adapted by Saban Entertainment in 1996 as Eagle Riders, an English-language dub that combined the series with its sequel Gatchaman Fighter to form a 65-episode run, though only 13 episodes aired in syndication during the 1996-1997 season due to low ratings. The adaptation introduced significant alterations, including censorship of violence and death references to comply with children's programming standards, added narration, and renamed the antagonist organization Galactor as the Vorak, an alien android race, while characters like Leader X became Multi-Megatron and Dr. Nambu was recast as Dr. Keane. Principal voice actors included Richard Cansino as Hunter Harris (Ken the Eagle), Bryan Cranston as Joe Thax (Joe the Condor), Heidi Lenhart as Kelly Jenar (Jun the Swan), Mona Marshall as Mickey Dugan (Jinpei the Swallow), and Paul Schrier as Ollie Keeawani (Ryu the Owl). The full series found greater success internationally, airing completely on Australia's Network Ten from August 1997 to December 1997. In , a localized compilation film titled Eagle 5 Brothers (독수리 5 형제, Dokksuri O Hyeongje) was produced in 1980 by Samjung Planning under license from , condensing elements from Gatchaman II and Gatchaman Fighter into a feature-length edit that aired on (MBC). The adaptation featured Korean dubbing with localized character names, such as Baekgeon for Ken the Eagle and Changsu for Joe the , and subsequent TV broadcasts in the and used edited episode compilations under the same title. Other international releases included partial dubs and edits for European and n markets during the and . In , the first four episodes were compiled into a VHS-exclusive dubbed as Gatchaman, le Combat des Galaxies in 1986, marking an early localized introduction to the sequel series. In , edited broadcasts of Gatchaman II episodes appeared on some regional networks in the as part of broader Gatchaman programming blocks with Spanish dubs, though full series availability was limited and details vary by country. Tatsunoko Production handled initial international licensing for Gatchaman II in the early 1980s, focusing on compilation films and partial TV sales to markets like and , before Saban acquired North American and select global in the mid-1990s for the adaptation. Following the expiration of Saban's in the early 2000s, licensed the uncut series in 2016, releasing a subtitled DVD collection of all 52 episodes on April 18, 2017, which restored the original content without the prior edits.

Reception and cultural impact

Gatchaman II received mixed critical and audience reception, often praised for its intensified dramatic elements and character development following the original series, though faulted for formulaic giant confrontations and uneven consistency toward the end of its run. User ratings on reflect this, with an average score of 6.45 out of 10 (weighted 6.32) based on 31 evaluations and a median rating of "Good," as of 2025, indicating solid appeal for nostalgic viewers. Similarly, MyAnimeList aggregates a score of 6.44 out of 10 from over 1,000 users, highlighting its enduring but dated charm among retro enthusiasts. The complete collection's review in Video Librarian awarded it 3.5 out of 5 stars, commending it as a continuation that old-school fans would appreciate for its adventurous spirit despite production limitations. Audience response in was strong during its 1978–1979 broadcast, bolstering the franchise's popularity through associated merchandise like Popy's line, which captured the era's enthusiasm for transforming vehicles and . Internationally, the series faced mixed reactions due to significant alterations in adaptations; Saban Entertainment's 1996 edit merged it with Gatchaman Fighter into a 65-episode run, but only 13 episodes aired in the United States, limiting broader exposure and diluting its narrative depth. The 2017 DVD release by reignited interest, appealing to adult fans seeking unedited versions and contributing to renewed discussions in communities. The series played a key role in solidifying the Gatchaman franchise, directly leading to the sequel Gatchaman Fighter in 1979 and later 1990s OVAs that expanded the universe. Its portrayal of a tight-knit team combating existential threats influenced subsequent team-based and genres, notably contributing to the formula that inspired , emphasizing coordinated heroism and high-stakes environmental defense. Themes of ecological preservation and opposition to alien imperialism echoed 1970s global concerns, resonating with audiences amid rising awareness of pollution and tensions. Gatchaman II's legacy persists in modern adaptations, including the 2013 live-action film directed by Kazuya Nomura, which reimagined the team's battles for contemporary viewers, and the 2013 reboot , a stylized reinterpretation produced by . The franchise's legacy continues with Mad Cave Studios' Gatchaman comic series, debuting in 2024 and expanding the classic continuity into 2025. Recent merchandise revivals, such as Ramen Toy's 2024 G-1 Eagle Sharp figure set, underscore ongoing fan devotion into the 2020s.

References

  1. https://tatsunoko.co.jp/en/works/gatchaman-2/
  2. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=1219
  3. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2016-12-20/sentai-filmworks-to-release-gatchaman-ii-anime-on-dvd/.110175
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  5. https://animetudes.com/2022/03/19/the-history-of-tatsunoko-conclusion-tatsunoko-diasporas/
  6. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=4631
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  9. https://animetudes.com/2022/02/26/the-history-of-tatsunoko-5-maturities/
  10. https://gatchaman.fandom.com/wiki/Gatchaman_II
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  12. https://www.videolibrarian.com/reviews/tv/gatchaman-ii-complete-collection/
  13. https://gatchaman.fandom.com/wiki/New_God_Phoenix
  14. https://anilist.co/anime/6374/Kagaku-NinjaTai-Gatchaman-II
  15. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=1220
  16. https://myanimelist.net/anime/6374/Kagaku_Ninja-tai_Gatchaman_II
  17. https://myanimelist.net/character/17951/Ken_Washio
  18. https://myanimelist.net/character/17952/Joe_Asakura
  19. https://myanimelist.net/character/17953/Jun
  20. https://myanimelist.net/character/17954/Jinpei
  21. https://myanimelist.net/character/17955/Ryu_Nakanishi
  22. https://myanimelist.net/character/74575/Giersadora
  23. https://myanimelist.net/character/18896/Berg_Katse
  24. https://gatchaman.fandom.com/wiki/Leader_X
  25. https://myanimelist.net/character/17956/Nambu_Kozaburou
  26. https://gatchaman.fandom.com/wiki/Getz
  27. https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/tv-shows/Science-Ninja-Team-Gatchaman-TV/Dr-Nambu/
  28. https://gatchaman.fandom.com/wiki/Dr._Kozaburo_Nambu
  29. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/13549-science-ninja-team-gatchaman/season/2/cast?language=en-US
  30. https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/characters/Gatchaman/Berg-Katse/
  31. https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/tv-shows/Science-Ninja-Team-Gatchaman-TV/Leader-X/
  32. https://gatchaman.fandom.com/wiki/Gel_Sadra
  33. https://vgmdb.net/artist/1882
  34. https://vgmdb.net/album/63004
  35. https://vgmdb.net/album/78985
  36. https://www.hlj.com/gatchaman-ii-original-soundtrack-bsch30055
  37. https://www.thelogbook.com/gatchamusic/
  38. http://www.alara.net/gatchaman/gatchiisyn.html
  39. http://www.motobayashi.net/tv/timetable/1800/su081800.html
  40. http://gatchaman.c.ooco.jp/data/50th/g50th19721982.html
  41. https://www.amazon.com/Library-Collection-Science-Gatchaman-Blu-ray/dp/B07DWD6R8M
  42. https://www.blu-ray.com/dvd/Gatchaman-II-Complete-Collection-DVD/131459/
  43. https://www.justwatch.com/us/tv-show/science-ninja-team-gatchaman/season-2
  44. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=1231
  45. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115162/
  46. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115162/fullcredits/
  47. https://videolibrarian.com/reviews/tv/gatchaman-ii-complete-collection/
  48. https://www.hakes.com/Auction/ItemDetail/210786/POPY-GATCHAMAN-II-BATTLE-OF-THE-PLANETS-BOXED-PIMER-ROBOT
  49. https://screenrant.com/power-rangers-inspiration-anime-gatchaman-factoid/
  50. https://news.hidive.com/2024/5/1/science-ninja-team-gatchaman-a-timeless-series-that-continues-to-inspire
  51. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2451110/
  52. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=15280
  53. https://madcavestudios.com/product/gatchaman-issue-2/
  54. https://toyhabits.com/ramen-toy-gatchaman-2-eagle-sharp-preorder-information/
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