[Daikaijuman54]

So! 5 Episodes in on Gotchard (I didn't have time to review them separate) and honestly, I'm kind of into having a nice fun show instead of a more serialized season we've had so far in Reiwa (whether it remains that way is yet to be seen).

So, first off: Gotchard's music is quite catchy and I like it. The opening might even be my favorite of the Reiwa shows so far, though it kind of reminds me of a Sentai Opening in a way. I don't know why, maybe it's because it sounds more fun and energetic than what we've had so far, and yes, I'm aware Saber's was the same way, but I think it had some underlying tones in it that made it seem like it'd have much darker moments.

Next: as I said when we first saw the suits, I love them! Gotchard is definitely one I loved instantly with the Steam Train/Grasshopper motif and of course I'm a sucker for scarves, it really does feel like an Anniversary suit in a way (which fits since Shin Kamen Rider came out this year and that was another 50th Anniversary project, so it wouldn't surprise me if Gotchard is another semi-Anniversary project), though it's definitely glossy like Revi's suit, which I think works better with this one since it's got a machine built into it. I also just adore the combination theme, which reminds me of Build, and while I don't think they're all meant to reference Riders, I can see some inspirations which fit Revice's way of adding them into the designs.

Valvarad's form is neat, nice to see a non-Rider suit form. The Maglams are interesting in how they are an amalgam (yes, I knew the joke was intentional on Toei's part), but the fact that they have static limbs connected to them is a neat detail that helps them stand out compared most Rider Monsters.

Third: as said before, I'm fine with a lighter show that's more fun, in fact I'd be glad if that's what this whole season ends up being! Sure, there's a lot of setup and track record of how some things might go down, but I don't mind it at all. So long as it keeps being enjoyable and doesn't rush the story (looking at you, early Saber), drag out less than stellar executions (looking at you, Revice), or something affects the production (looking at you, Unspecified Virus of Unknown Origin interfering with Zero-One), I think this will be a fun season.

I know I'm saying fun a lot, but I'm honestly enjoying Gotchard's first impressions. Sure, I can already make guesses like "the Alchemist Higher Ups might be evil" or something, but for now, I'll stick with it!