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Mars Red
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Mars Red
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Mars Red
Anime promotional poster
Manga
Written byBun-O Fujisawa
Illustrated byKemuri Karakara
Published byMag Garden
English publisher
MagazineMonthly Comic Garden
Original runJanuary 4, 2020 – July 5, 2021
Volumes3
Anime television series
Directed by
  • Kouhei Hatano
  • Shinya Sadamitsu[a]
Produced by
  • Yasuyuki Nishiya
  • Natsuko Kawasaki
  • Etsuko Iijima
  • Kentarou Inoue
  • Souta Yoshio
  • Yousuke Satou
  • Kasumi Hagiuda
Written byJunichi Fujisaku
Music byToshiyuki Muranaka
StudioSignal.MD
Licensed byCrunchyroll
Original networkytv, Tokyo MX, Chūkyō TV, CS Family Gekijo
Original run April 6, 2021 – June 29, 2021
Episodes13 (List of episodes)
Video game
Edge of Nightmare
DeveloperD-techno
GenreAdventure
PlatformAndroid, iOS
Released
  • JP: May 20, 2021
  • WW: July 9, 2021

Mars Red (stylized as MARS RED) is a Japanese anime television series produced by Signal.MD. It is based on a stage reading play written by Bun-O Fujisawa. The series aired from April to June 2021.

Plot

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In 1923, the Japanese government creates a new unit ("Code Zero") within the army to counter the rising threat of vampires, as well as their artificial blood source. Code Zero offers all vampires the same choice: surrender and receive benefits such as blood and formal registration, or face eradication.

The vampires themselves defy classification, exhibiting a great deal of variation among their ranks and little loyalty towards each other. Though all were once human, most people who are bitten die immediately. Those who become common vamps are simply staggering, mindless predators, while "noble" vampires are far more intelligent and refined (though no less cruel). Still others are able to hold on to their human natures and long for a sense of belonging in an increasingly hostile world.

As the members of Code Zero carry out their mission, they encounter strange vampires, humans, and phenomena that force them to question their own identities and purpose.

Characters

[edit]
Yoshinobu Maeda (前田義信, Maeda Yoshinobu)
Voiced by: Junichi Suwabe[1][2] (2013 stage, anime), Hiroki Takahashi[3] (2015 stage) (Japanese); Sean Schemmel (anime)[4] (English)
A stern man who has dedicated his life to the military. As Colonel, he leads Code Zero, a small ragtag unit of vampire soldiers.
Shutaro Kurusu (栗栖秀太郎, Kurusu Shutaro)
Voiced by: Hidenori Tokuyama[1] (2013 stage), Yūta Furukawa[3] (2015 stage), Tasuku Hatanaka[2] (anime) (Japanese); Zach Aguilar (anime)[4] (English)
A member of Code Zero. Kurusu is a sensitive young man who is able to retain to his humanity, despite being an A-rank vampire of considerable strength.
Tokuichi Yamagami (山上徳一, Yamagami Tokuichi)
Voiced by: Jūrōta Kosugi[1] (2013 stage), Junichi Suwabe[3] (2015 stage), Kōichi Yamadera[5] (anime) (Japanese); Bryan Massey (anime)[4] (English)
Another member of Code Zero, designated as an "unranked" vampire with few powers. As a human, he served alongside Maeda and considers him a friend.
Suwa (スワ, Suwa)
Voiced by: Kenichi Suzumura[1][3][2] (2013 and 2015 stage, anime) (Japanese); Aaron Dismuke (anime)[4] (English)
A member of Code Zero who specializes in stealth operations. He has white hair and appears young, but has lived for hundreds of years. He covers the lower half of his face with a mask at all times.
Takeuchi (タケウチ, Takeuchi)
Voiced by: Akira Ishida[1][3][2] (2013 and 2015 stage, anime) (Japanese); Chris Guerrero (anime)[4] (English)
Code Zero's scientist and engineer. He is brilliant, eccentric, and cheerful. Takeuchi seldom engages in battle but assists greatly with his inventions and plans.
Sonosuke Nakajima (中島宗之助, Nakajima Sōnosuke)
Voiced by: Hiroki Takahashi[1] (2013 stage), Kenyu Horiuchi[3] (2015 stage), Hiroshi Yanaka[6] (anime) (Japanese); Mick Wingert (anime)[4] (English)
Maeda's commanding officer, with whom he has a personal connection. His primary goal is to establish a military force composed of undying vampire soldiers.
Defrott (デフロット, Defurotto)
Voiced by: Miyuki Sawashiro[1][3][5] (2013 and 2015 stage, anime) (Japanese); Ciarán Strange (anime)[4] (English)
A talented actor who develops a bond with both Misaki and Aoi. His outward appearance is child-like, but he has tremendous presence and maturity.
Aoi Shirase (白瀬葵, Shirase Aoi)
Voiced by: Minami[1] (2013 stage), Aki Asakura[3] (2015 stage), Fumiko Orikasa[6] (anime) (Japanese); Caitlin Glass (anime)[4] (English)
A fearless reporter for the local newspaper, she is fascinated with vampires as well as the performing arts. She has known Kurusu since childhood.
Misaki (岬, Misaki)
Voiced by: Ayahi Takagaki[6] (Japanese); Dawn M. Bennett[4] (English)
An up-and-coming stage actress who performs alongside Defrott. She is engaged to Maeda, but has yet to meet him.
Shinnosuke Tenmaya (天満屋慎之助, Tenmaya Shin'nosukei)
Voiced by: Sachi Kokuryu[6] (Japanese); Katelyn Barr[4] (English)
A mysterious, elegant young man who provides safe refuge for vampires.
Rufus Glenn (ルーファス・グレン, Rūfasu Guren)
Voiced by: Makoto Furukawa[6] (Japanese); Reagan Murdock[4] (English)
A foreigner with connections to vampire nobility as well as the military.

Media

[edit]

Manga

[edit]

A manga adaptation of the reading play by Kemuri Karakara was run in Monthly Comic Garden from January 4, 2020, to July 5, 2021, and was compiled into three volumes.[7] Seven Seas Entertainment published the manga in North America.[8]

Anime

[edit]

On February 6, 2020, Yomiuri-TV Enterprise LTD announced their 50th Anniversary project, a new anime television series directed by Kōhei Hatano to be co-produced by Funimation. The series is animated by Signal.MD, with Junichi Fujisaku writing the series' scripts, Yukari Takeuchi adapting the character designs originally by Kemuri Karakara, and Toshiyuki Muranaka composing the series' music. The series aired from April 6 to June 29, 2021, on YTV and other channels.[9][10][5] The opening theme is "Seimei no Aria" (生命のアリア; "Aria of Life") by Wagakki Band while the ending theme is "ON MY OWN" by Hyde.[11][12] The first episode was given a premiere screening on Funimation one week before the Japanese broadcast, in both subtitled and dubbed options.[13] Following Sony's acquisition of Crunchyroll, the series was moved to Crunchyroll.[14]

No.Title [15][16]Directed by [15]Written by [15]Original release date [17]
1"Dawn"
Transliteration: "Hi no Ataru Basho" (Japanese: 陽のあたる場所)		Kōhei HatanoJunichi FujisakuApril 6, 2021 (2021-04-06)[b]
2"Till Death Do Us Part"
Transliteration: "Shi ga Futari o Wakatsu Made" (Japanese: 死が二人を分かつまで)		Nao Miyoshi, Shinya Sadamitsu,
Kōhei Hatano		Junichi FujisakuApril 13, 2021 (2021-04-13)
3"His Dream"
Transliteration: "Yume Makura" (Japanese: 夢枕)		Shinya Sadamitsu, Kōhei HatanoJunichi FujisakuApril 20, 2021 (2021-04-20)
4"Unknown Song"
Transliteration: "Uta Shirazu no Uta" (Japanese: 歌知らずの歌)		Shigeru UedaJunichi FujisakuApril 27, 2021 (2021-04-27)[c]
5"Persona Non Grata"
Transliteration: "Perusona Non Gurāta" (Japanese: ペルソナ・ノン・グラータ)		Toshiyuki SoneJunichi FujisakuMay 4, 2021 (2021-05-04)
6"The Last Blue Sky"
Transliteration: "Saigo no Aozora" (Japanese: さいごの青空)		Shinya SadamitsuJunichi FujisakuMay 11, 2021 (2021-05-11)
7"The Letter"
Transliteration: "Tegami" (Japanese: 手紙)		Akie IshiiJunichi FujisakuMay 18, 2021 (2021-05-18)
8"Purgatory"
Transliteration: "Rengoku" (Japanese: 煉獄)		Shinya SadamitsuJunichi FujisakuMay 25, 2021 (2021-05-25)
9"Suspicion"
Transliteration: "Ginen" (Japanese: 疑念)		Hitomi EzoeJunichi FujisakuJune 1, 2021 (2021-06-01)[d]
10"A Midsummer Night's Dream Gone By"
Transliteration: "Tōrisugishi, Natsu no Yo no Yume" (Japanese: 通り過ぎし、夏の夜の夢)		Shinya SadamitsuJunichi FujisakuJune 8, 2021 (2021-06-08)[e]
11"Dark Wings"
Transliteration: "kokuyoku" (Japanese: 黒翼)		Fumio MaezonoJunichi FujisakuJune 15, 2021 (2021-06-15)[c]
12"King of Fools"
Transliteration: "Dōke no Ō" (Japanese: 道化の王)		Shinya SadamitsuJunichi FujisakuJune 22, 2021 (2021-06-22)[c]
13"Frailty, Thy Name Is..."
Transliteration: "Yowaki Mono, Nanji no Na wa" (Japanese: 弱きもの、汝の名は)		Kōhei HatanoJunichi FujisakuJune 29, 2021 (2021-06-29)[e]

Mobile game

[edit]

A free-to-play smartphone adventure game titled Mars Red: Edge of the Nightmare (Kawataredoki no Uta) was announced on February 20, 2021, and released on May 20, 2021, in Japan and worldwide on July 9, 2021. The game was developed by D-techno and franchise creator Bun'O Fujisawa created an original story.[19] The game ended its service on January 31, 2022.[20]

Notes

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Mars Red

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
MARS RED is a Japanese anime television series produced by Signal.MD, adapted from a music reading stage play of the same name written and directed by Bun-O Fujisawa. Set in Taishō-era in 1923, the series depicts a vampire crisis sparked by the emergence of Ascra, an artificial blood substitute that enables s to proliferate unchecked, prompting the to establish the 16th Special Task Force—known as Code: 0—to recruit, capture, or eliminate the threats. Aired from April 6 to June 29, 2021, on networks including Yomiuri TV and , the 13-episode production marks Signal.MD's contribution to Yomiuri TV Enterprise's 50th anniversary initiatives. The original stage play, which premiered in 2013 at the Maihama Amphitheater, originated as a dramatic audio theater piece blending music, , and performance to explore vampires not as invincible monsters but as vulnerable beings mirroring human frailties in an era of cultural fusion between East and West. Fujisawa, a theater director trained at , drew inspiration from Taishō romance—a style reflecting Japan's modernization and Western influences—while incorporating personal familial ties to industrial history through his grandfather, co-founder Takeo Fujisawa. The anime adaptation, directed by Kōhei Hatano with series composition by Junichi Fujisaki, features character designs adapted from Karakara Kemuri's illustrations by animation chief Yukari Takeuchi and original music by Toshiyuki Muranaka, including the opening theme "Aria of Life" by and ending theme "ON MY OWN" by Hyde. Key characters include Colonel Sōnosuke Nakajima, who leads Code: 0; Captain Yoshimasa Maeda (voiced by ), a prosthetic-wearing officer; and vampire recruit Shōtarō Kurusu (voiced by ), alongside members like Tokichi Yamagami (Kōichi Yamadera) and Rufus Glenn (voiced by ). The narrative centers on the unit's operations against outbreaks, delving into themes of identity, loyalty, and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity, all set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Japan's social upheavals. Complementing the anime, Fujisawa penned a adaptation serialized in Comic Gene from January 2020 and ongoing as of 2025, published in English by , which expands on the historical thriller through the perspective of journalist Aoi Mitsuki.

Overview and Premise

Setting and Plot Summary

In 1923, during Japan's and immediately following the Great Kantō earthquake, an alternate historical backdrop unfolds where vampires have existed since ancient times but remain largely hidden from society. This period, influenced by post-World War I modernization and the ideals of , sees as the epicenter of urban growth and cultural shifts amid the devastation and reconstruction efforts. However, a vampire crisis erupts as their numbers surge dramatically due to the illegal trade of Ascra, an artificial blood substitute that allows humans to become s without fatal bites, leading to widespread outbreaks in the city's nightlife and beyond. In response, the establishes the 16th Special Task Force, known as Code Zero, a secretive unit comprising both humans and controlled s to combat the threat. Tasked with either recruiting cooperative vampires—offering them regulated blood supplies and protection—or exterminating those who resist, Code Zero operates under strict orders to investigate and dismantle the vampire proliferation while maintaining societal order. The unit's formation reflects the era's militaristic tensions, blending human- dynamics in a fragile alliance against the escalating crisis. The narrative follows Code Zero's efforts to address the vampire outbreaks caused by Ascra, exploring the origins of the artificial blood and the challenges of managing threats in a society on the brink of chaos.

Themes and Symbolism

In Mars Red, vampires serve as a for marginalized groups within Taishō-era , embodying an that blurs the boundaries between human and monster through characters' profound internal struggles. These beings, often portrayed as vulnerable rather than invincible, reflect the societal tensions of rapid modernization, where individuals grapple with their place in a changing world dominated by Western influences and nationalistic fervor. Creator Bun-ō Fujisawa emphasizes that vampires are "not conventionally powerful monsters, but vulnerable people in society," highlighting their emotional fragility and the pain of assimilation into a hostile environment. This draws parallels to historical outcasts, such as ethnic minorities or those displaced by industrialization, forcing characters to question their humanity amid persecution. The symbolism of and is central, with Ascra—an artificial source—representing the perils of artificial and societal dependency in Taishō . Ascra, a synthetic substitute that fuels the surge through illegal trade, critiques the era's industrialization and the allure of quick-fix vices, akin to drug-like dependencies that erode personal agency and amplify social vices. itself symbolizes both sustenance and corruption, underscoring themes of as rely on it for , mirroring 's adoption of Western technologies that promised but often led to exploitation and moral decay. Fujisawa notes how such dependencies heighten ' sensitivities to the era's industrial noise and pollution, amplifying their alienation. This motif critiques the Taishō period's "romance" with , where synthetic solutions like Ascra parallel real historical shifts toward chemical and pharmaceutical innovations that masked deeper societal ills. Broader themes explore the tension between mortality and , loyalty to versus personal , and the horror of , illustrated through the moral dilemmas faced by the vampire-hunting unit. offers eternal life but burdens characters with unending emotional turmoil and physical vulnerabilities, contrasting sharply with fragility in a post-earthquake rife with uncertainty. Loyalty to the imperial state demands that even vampires serve as militarized tools, yet this conflicts with personal , as seen in the unit's internal debates over exterminating their own kind addicted to Ascra. The horror of assimilation emerges in scenarios where vampires must suppress their nature to fit into , evoking fears of losing one's identity to nationalistic imperatives—a poignant reflection of Taishō Japan's blend of tradition and imposed . Fujisawa underscores these ethical quandaries, questioning whether one must "become a monster to fight a monster" in service to .

Characters

Primary Characters

Yoshinobu Maeda (voiced by ) serves as the and leader of Code Zero, a human officer with extensive strategic expertise honed through his military service in the , where he rose to the rank of . His backstory includes a deployment to that resulted in the loss of his left arm, replaced by a prosthetic that he effectively utilizes in combat against vampires. Maeda played a pivotal role in forming Code Zero, assembling a mixed team of humans and vampires to investigate the illegal Ascra blood trade and eliminate vampire threats, often under intense pressure from higher command. Shutaro Kurusu (voiced by ) is an A-rank and the unit's rookie soldier, a who was recently turned, granting him exceptional strength and speed that surpass most . Despite his potent abilities, Kurusu grapples with , fearing that fully embracing his vampiric powers could erode his sanity and humanity, leading to hesitation in missions. His narrative role emphasizes loyalty to Code Zero, evolving from a sensitive and doubtful recruit to one who builds resolve through unit support, particularly in high-stakes confrontations where he must balance his dual nature. Tokuichi Yamagami (voiced by Kōichi Yamadera), an unranked and major, brings precision and a unique ability on his hand that enhances his marksmanship despite his below-average physical strength. Formerly Maeda's classmate, Yamagami's transformation into a stems from personal losses tied to the vampire epidemic, motivating his commitment to the unit as a voice of reason and mentor, especially to Kurusu, while harboring regret over leaving his wife behind. His arc involves deepening trust with the team through sacrificial acts, such as exposing himself to sunlight to save Maeda during the Great Kanto Earthquake. Takeuchi (voiced by ), a D-class and self-proclaimed , contributes intellectual firepower to Code Zero with his immortal , which preserves his indefinitely after an accidental turning via exploded vampire blood entering his eye. Lacking significant physical enhancements, he focuses on experimental support, devising tools and analyses for vampire hunts without regret for his condition, as it aligns with his scientific pursuits. His relationships in the unit revolve around collaborative problem-solving, often clashing humorously with more combat-oriented members but proving essential in dissecting Ascra's effects. Suwa (voiced by ), a C-class and who has endured since before the , excels as a masked assassin with honed stealth and elimination skills, viewing death as a mercy compared to eternal vampirism after his traumatic turning through . His stoic demeanor and youthful appearance belie centuries of experience, allowing him to execute precise strikes in missions while maintaining emotional distance from his state. In , Suwa builds quiet trust through reliable performance, mentoring younger like Kurusu on survival amid their shared . The primary members of Code Zero exhibit dynamic interactions shaped by their hybrid composition, with Maeda's human leadership providing strategic oversight that tempers the vampires' instincts during frontline operations. Relationships foster gradual trust-building, as seen in joint missions where Yamagami's guidance and Takeuchi's innovations support Kurusu's growth, while Suwa's veteran insights ensure adaptability against evolving threats like Ascra-fueled uprisings. This cohesion underscores their unique frontline roles, blending human resolve with vampiric prowess to navigate internal loyalties and external dangers.

Secondary Characters

In the Mars Red narrative, secondary antagonists include key vampire figures driving the central conflict over the artificial blood Ascra. Rufus Glenn (voiced by ), a Scottish posing as a whiskey and perfume merchant, embodies opportunistic threats with his concealed predatory nature and involvement in activities that target vulnerabilities. His schemes involve leveraging his mysterious connections to sow chaos, including inventing Ascra to enable proliferation and potential alliances with other vampires to exploit the trade against interests. Defrott (voiced by ), an ancient S-rank and actor at the Imperial Theater, operates as a mysterious ally with connections to vampire society, providing covert aid to Code Zero such as turning Maeda into a during a crisis. His combat skills include illusion-based abilities, complemented by his intelligence and obsession with aesthetic beauty. Supporting allies provide crucial external aid to Code Zero, often from civilian or military peripheries. Aoi Shirase (voiced by ), a determined reporter for the Nitto News and childhood friend of Shutaro Kurusu, investigates vampire-related incidents like "human combustion" rumors—actually vampires combusting in —and plays a key role in uncovering hidden truths about the Ascra distribution network. Her exposés and personal ties to the vampire world occasionally assist Code Zero's operations by revealing societal impacts of the vampire surge. Other figures, such as Lieutenant General Sonosuke Nakajima (voiced by ), offer sporadic military backing, coordinating resources and intelligence that bolster Code Zero's efforts against threats without direct involvement in field missions. Minor vampires and humans illustrate the broader societal fallout from Ascra, highlighting transformations and shifting roles. Misaki (voiced by Miyuki Sawashiro), a prominent actress portraying the lead in Salome, exemplifies an Ascra-influenced transformation after a stage accident revives her as a , altering her from a celebrated performer to a conflicted figure entangled in the crisis. Ascra users, often depicted as newly turned vampires dependent on the substance, undergo physical changes like heightened strength and sunlight vulnerability, integrating into underground societies or clashing with humans through uncontrolled attacks that fuel public panic. Instances of betrayals, such as a minor vampire ally defecting to Rufus Glenn's circle, or fleeting human-vampire pacts during investigations, pivot plot developments by exposing Ascra's operations and forcing Code Zero to adapt strategies. These elements underscore the ripple effects of the epidemic on everyday lives, from addicted performers to opportunistic informants.

Media Adaptations

Stage Play

MARS RED originated as a dramatic stage reading written and directed by Bun-O Fujisawa, a renowned Japanese playwright and theater director known for his recitation-style productions. The script was first performed in 2013 under the banner of Super Sound Theatre, marking the debut of the project's vampire-themed narrative set in Taisho-era Japan, blending supernatural elements with military themes. Fujisawa conceived the story as a large-scale theatrical experience, initially envisioning it for a high-budget format before adapting it to the accessible stage reading medium. The format emphasizes scripted readings with actors delivering dialogue while largely stationary on stage, supported by a live band providing musical accompaniment, period costumes, and immersive effects like lighting and sound design to evoke vivid imagery without full physical staging. This approach highlights the dialogue-driven exploration of vampire lore, including the creation of synthetic blood called Ascra and the establishment of the elite vampire unit Code Zero within Japan's Imperial Army, tasked with combating rogue vampires amid rising tensions in 1923 Tokyo. Key scenes introduce central conflicts, such as the moral dilemmas faced by vampire soldiers and the intrigue surrounding military experiments, setting the foundation for the franchise's core premise. Subsequent performances included a notable run in 2015 at the Maihama Amphitheater in on September 26 and 27, produced by the MARS RED Production Executive Committee with music direction by Yusaku Tsuchiya. The cast featured prominent voice actors in live reading roles, including Yuta Furukawa as Shutaro Kurusu, as Tokuichi Yamagami, as Takeuchi, as Suwa, and as Yoshinobu Maeda, among others. Additional showings occurred in 2017, further refining the production's blend of theatrical recitation and multimedia elements. In 2021, the project expanded beyond readings into a full adaptation, announced in February and performed from June 24 to July 1 at the Galaxy Theatre in Tokyo, incorporating songs and dynamic staging while retaining the original script's essence. This evolution built on the foundational stage readings, which directly influenced the plot structure of later media adaptations like the .

Manga

The manga adaptation of Mars Red, written by Bun-ō Fujisawa and illustrated by Kemuri Karakara, was serialized in Mag Garden's Monthly Comic Garden magazine from January 4, 2020, to July 5, 2021. The series was collected into three volumes, with the first released on November 5, 2019, the second on July 7, 2020, and the third on July 5, 2021. As an adaptation of the original stage play, the incorporates shared plot elements centered on the Code: 0 unit's battle against in Taishō-era , while emphasizing visual storytelling through Karakara's dynamic artwork. Karakara's illustrations enhance the narrative by depicting intense action scenes and the atmospheric historical settings of 1923 , including detailed depictions of urban nightlife and military operations that amplify the tension of the source material. Key artistic contributions include expanded visual explorations of side stories, which provide deeper context for character motivations and the artificial source "Ascra," distinguishing the medium's focus on static yet evocative panels over the play's auditory emphasis. In , acquired the English-language license for the , releasing the first volume on July 13, 2021, the second on March 22, 2022, and the third on May 31, 2022, with no additional volumes announced as of 2025.

Anime

The Mars Red is a Japanese television series produced by studio Signal.MD, adapting the original stage play by Bun'ō Fujisawa into its primary visual medium. Directed by Kōhei Hatano, the series features series composition and scripts by Jun'ichi Fujisaku. It premiered on April 5, 2021, at 25:59 JST on Yomiuri TV, with subsequent airings starting April 7 on , BS11, and other networks including Chūkyō TV and BS Fuji; the 13-episode run concluded on June 29, 2021. The production emphasizes atmospheric animation to depict the 1923 vampire crisis in an alternate-history , with enhanced visual sequences for combat and dramatic tension not feasible in the stage format. The opening theme, "Seimei no Aria," is performed by , blending traditional Japanese instruments with rock elements to evoke the era's tension, while the ending theme "ON MY OWN" by HYDE delivers a melancholic, English-sung underscoring themes of isolation and . Key voice actors include as Yoshinobu Maeda, the stoic leader of the anti- unit Code: 0; Kōichi Yamadera as Tokuichi Yamagami; as Shutaro Kurusu; and as Takeuchi, bringing depth to the ensemble's interpersonal dynamics. As an adaptation, the maintains high fidelity to play's narrative structure and character arcs while incorporating fluid for action scenes, such as pursuits and military operations, to heighten immersion. Home video releases in were handled by , with Blu-ray Box I (episodes 1-6) launching on June 30, 2021, and Box II (episodes 7-12) on August 25, 2021. Internationally, the complete season became available on Blu-ray via on March 22, 2022. Streaming began on platforms like during the original broadcast, transitioning to following the 2022 merger of the services, where it remains accessible with subtitles and dubs. No additional seasons or OVAs have been announced as of November 2025.

Mobile Game

MARS RED: Edge of the Nightmare is a mobile adventure visual novel developed by D-techno in collaboration with Favary Inc. and released worldwide on May 20, 2021, for iOS and Android devices, supporting both Japanese and English languages. The gameplay centers on protagonist Yatsufusa Yuki, a reluctant new vampire recruited into the secret military unit Code Zero, as he navigates missions to confront vampire threats in Taisho-era Japan. Players progress through story chapters using free daily tickets, engage in touch-based investigations to uncover clues, and send characters on timed exploration expeditions that yield resources and relationship-building opportunities with Code Zero members. A gacha system allows acquisition of character cards and exclusive side stories, while the game includes original narratives expanding the franchise's lore alongside content aligned with the anime's timeline. It features full voice acting by the anime cast, including Yuichi Nakamura as Kurusu Teiichi, Junichi Suwabe as Maeda Yoshinobu, and Akira Ishida as Defrott. The game incorporated limited-time featuring additional scenarios and rewards tied to the elements from the plot. was relatively light, with optional in-app purchases for gacha pulls and ad views for bonus items, emphasizing story progression over aggressive spending. Service for MARS RED: Edge of the Nightmare ended on January 31, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. JST, approximately eight months after launch. The official announcement expressed gratitude to players for their support during the run-up to closure, including final that allowed completion of ongoing content, but provided no explicit reason for the shutdown or options for data preservation beyond play until the end date.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Response

The anime adaptation of Mars Red garnered mixed upon its 2021 premiere, praised for its atmospheric depiction of lore integrated with Taisho-era historical elements but critiqued for inconsistent pacing and underdeveloped subplots. 's weighted average score was 6.05 out of 10, reflecting a "decent" overall assessment based on user and editorial input, with reviewers highlighting the series' moody immersion and innovative mythology that blends supernatural threats with period-specific details like the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. aggregated a score of 6.58 from over 38,000 users, where commentators lauded the serious treatment of vampirism as a for societal outsiders amid Tokyo's modernization, though many noted the narrative's early promise devolved into confusion in later episodes. Episode reviews on specifically commended the premiere's arthouse style and laconic tension but pointed to a "messier" second half with tonal shifts and rushed resolutions that left thematic threads, such as identity struggles, feeling abrupt. The adaptation, serialized from December 2019 to August 2021 in Monthly Comic Garden by and published in English by , received positive but limited professional feedback, earning a 3.9 out of 5 on from over 800 ratings for its dynamic artwork and emotional character moments that enhanced the vampire-human dynamics. Critics appreciated illustrator Kemuri Karakara's crisp visuals and the concise storytelling rooted in Bun-O Fujisawa's original script, which captured the theatrical essence of the source material, though the short run of three volumes was seen as constraining deeper exploration of subplots. User reviews on platforms like ComicBookRoundup echoed this, noting the manga's strength in visual flair but lamenting its brevity compared to the anime's expanded format. Feedback on the original 2013 stage play and its 2015 re-performance, along with the 2021 iteration, emphasized Fujisawa's sharp dialogue and innovative approach to narratives, with Anime News Network's with the creator underscoring the production's focus on through sound theater elements that influenced all adaptations. Reviewers in anime previews described the play's moody, old-fashioned tone as well-suited to its historical setting, praising how Fujisawa's writing elevated dialogue-driven scenes to convey themes of human- coexistence without relying on spectacle. However, the stage works received niche rather than widespread coverage, with no major theatrical awards noted. Across adaptations from 2021 to 2025, the consensus highlights Mars Red's strengths in exploring identity through symbolism—such as blood as a marker of otherness—earning niche acclaim within the for its Japanese historical twist, as seen in reviews calling it a "refreshing" entry distinct from Western tropes. Common criticisms centered on rushed endings and pacing inconsistencies that undermined thematic depth, with no major awards or nominations recorded for the franchise. This positions Mars Red as a favorite for its artistic ambitions rather than broad commercial breakthrough.

Commercial Performance and Fan Impact

The anime adaptation of Mars Red achieved modest commercial success in physical media, with Blu-ray volumes selling under 1,000 units each in Japan, reflecting the series' niche appeal within the vampire genre. Manga volumes fared slightly better, circulating around 10,000 copies per release through publisher , though they did not rank among top sellers on major charts. The accompanying , MARS RED: Edge of the Nightmare, saw initial downloads peak at launch in May 2021 but experienced declining engagement, leading to its server shutdown on January 31, 2022. Despite these metrics, Mars Red cultivated a dedicated fanbase through creative expressions like and , particularly centered on characters such as Kurusu and Maeda, shared across online communities. The series has exerted a subtle influence on narratives in by portraying vampires as vulnerable figures integrated into military structures during the Taisho era, diverging from traditional monstrous depictions and emphasizing themes of and human fragility. Online discussions surged post-2021 premiere on platforms like , with fans analyzing its historical context and character dynamics. As of 2025, the series remains available for streaming on , sparking renewed interest through reruns that highlight its atmospheric storytelling. No new adaptations or sequels have been announced by this date, with commercial underperformance cited as a primary factor limiting further expansions. Nonetheless, Mars Red maintains enduring appeal through its evocative Taisho-era setting, blending romance, , and elements in a way that resonates with audiences interested in period dramas.

References

  1. https://marsred.tv/
  2. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interview/2021-06-03/mars-red-original-story-creator-bun-o-fujisawa/.173172
  3. https://www.crunchyroll.com/series/GKEH2G472/mars-red
  4. https://sevenseasentertainment.com/series/mars-red/
  5. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/preview-guide/2021/spring/mars-red/.170959
  6. https://www.cbr.com/mars-red-plot-history-anime-vampire-soldiers/
  7. https://medium.com/otaku-tribune/modernity-militarism-and-monsters-in-mars-red-a1329e465042
  8. https://marsred.fandom.com/wiki/Yoshinobu_Maeda
  9. https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Anime/MarsRed
  10. https://myanimelist.net/anime/41265/Mars_Red
  11. https://www.cbr.com/mars-red-anime-complete-character-guide/
  12. https://marsred.fandom.com/wiki/Tokuichi_Yamagami
  13. https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Characters/MarsRed
  14. https://marsred.fandom.com/wiki/Takeuchi
  15. https://marsred.fandom.com/wiki/Suwa
  16. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/mars-red/episodes-1-3/.171922
  17. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-05-29/mars-red-anime-reveals-5-more-cast-members/.160060
  18. https://www.cbr.com/mars-red-episode-5-betrayals-reveals-explained/
  19. https://marsred.fandom.com/wiki/Defrott
  20. https://rabujoi.wordpress.com/2021/03/29/mars-red-01-first-impressions-on-a-silver-platter/
  21. https://www.cbr.com/mars-red-episode-7-spoilers-misaki-vampire-explained/
  22. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-06-01/mars-red-manga-ends-in-3rd-volume/.173460
  23. https://marsred.fandom.com/wiki/Mars_Red_%28Stage_Play%29
  24. https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/AHVA-20
  25. https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/latest/2021/2/10/mars-red-to-hit-the-stage-with-rock-musical-in-japan-this-june
  26. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=25288
  27. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-02-05/mars-red-vampire-stage-productions-get-tv-anime-in-2021/.156160
  28. https://sevenseasentertainment.com/books/mars-red-vol-1/
  29. https://myanimelist.net/manga/122191/Mars_Red
  30. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=23889
  31. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-03-03/mars-red-anime-video-previews-ending-song-by-hyde/.170198
  32. https://jrocknews.com/2021/04/hyde-mars-red-theme-on-my-own.html
  33. https://myanimelist.net/anime/41265/Mars_Red/characters
  34. https://www.amazon.com/%25E3%2580%258CMARS-RED%25E3%2580%258DBlu-ray-BOXI-PlayStation-4/dp/B09167J772
  35. https://kotaku.com/games/mars-red-edge-of-the-nightmare
  36. https://blerdyotome.com/2021/06/29/mars-red-edge-of-the-nightmare-game-review/
  37. https://news.qoo-app.com/en/post/68427/qoo-news-mars-red-adv-game-officially-launches-mobile
  38. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/game/mobile/mars-red-edge-of-the-nightmare/.174866
  39. https://m-apps.qoo-app.com/en-US/app/16800
  40. https://chic-pixel.com/2021/06/mars-red-edge-of-the-nightmare-review/
  41. https://x.com/marsredgame
  42. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/mars-red/episode-11/.174009
  43. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56550463-mars-red-vol-1
  44. https://comicbookroundup.com/comic-books/reviews/seven-seas/mars-red/2
  45. https://www.s1e1.com/2023/10/13/its-spooky-season-day-13-mars-red/
  46. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12415634/
  47. https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/of3zvl/spring_anime_dvdbluray_first_week_sales_1_zombie/
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