Choosing between anime and game Akira Toriyama’s Sand Land has recently been transformed into both an anime and a video game. Fans of the manga might find themselves at a crossroads, deciding which medium offers the best experience of this post-apocalyptic desert world. While both adaptations share the same plot and characters, they diverge significantly in terms of execution.
The great master Akira Toriyama had recently passed away. He endeared himself to the Western world with the Dragon Ball series. It would not be wrong to say that Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball series may come after Akira and Neon Genesis Evangelion, other legendary works of Japan.
The simultaneous release of both the anime and the game of Akira Toriyama’s manga Sand Land is a tribute to the great master. But while the game is fun, it doesn’t quite live up to expectations.
The anime and game of Akira Toriyama’s Sand Land
Anime triumphs in adaptation: The anime, available on Hulu and Disney Plus outside the United States, delivers a compact and engaging experience over its 13-episode run. It successfully captures the unique blend of seriousness and silliness that characterizes Toriyama’s style. The anime thrives on fast-paced action sequences and quirky character moments, making it a delightful watch with hardly any filler content. In stark contrast to the arid setting, the show is vibrant and full of life, featuring characters from demonic blobs lounging under umbrellas to raptors sprinting through the desert.
Video game falls short: Unfortunately, we can’t speak with the same praise for the game. I wish Akira Toriyama had made a good game worthy of him. On the other hand, the video game adaptation, which turns the manga into an open-world RPG, struggles to encapsulate the essence of “Sand Land.” Despite having visually similar elements and environments, the game is bogged down by repetitive quests and lacks the narrative depth seen in the anime. Combat and stealth missions feel underdeveloped, and the game stretches the plot too thin across its expansive world, resulting in a lackluster pace that fails to match the anime’s energy.
However, the game does shine in its depiction of vehicular elements. Players can enjoy navigating the vast wasteland with various upgradable vehicles, including a robust tank and a sleek motorcycle. These aspects of the game provide some redeeming moments, though they are not enough to maintain consistent engagement.
The verdict: While both adaptations of Akira Toriyama’s “Sand Land” offer a glimpse into the manga’s intriguing world, the anime series is the clear winner. It not only remains faithful to the original’s dynamic and bizarre atmosphere but also adds new plot elements that enrich the overall story. For those looking to explore this peculiar, post-apocalyptic universe, the anime is the way to go, promising a more complete and enjoyable experience.
While the world mourns the loss of Akira Toriyama, a true legend in the world of manga and anime, his legacy lives on through his timeless creations. From the epic battles and lovable characters of Dragon Ball to the whimsical adventure of Dr. Slump, Toriyama’s works have captivated audiences for generations.
Sand Land serves as a testament to his versatility and ability to craft captivating stories in diverse formats. Though the game adaptation may not have fully captured the magic of the original, both anime and the game stand as a celebration of his imaginative spirit. So, the next time you power up for a Dragon Ball marathon or get lost in the quirky world of “Sand Land,” take a moment to appreciate the genius of Akira Toriyama, a master storyteller who will be forever missed.
Featured image credit: Akira Toriyama’s Sand Land / Bandai
