Gachiakuta Episode 2 Finally Fixes Everything Wrong With the Premiere—Thanks to This New Hero

Although highly anticipated among Summer 2025’s anime lineup, started out with a somewhat lackluster debut. The premiere isn’t poor quality by any stretch of the imagination, but it may not captivate those who haven’t read Kei Urana’s popular manga of the same title. Fortunately, Gachiakuta Episode 2, titled “The Inhabited,” manages to improve matters by unveiling the anime’s true narrative and offering a glimpse into Rudo’s future.

In Gachiakuta Episode 2, I find myself wrongfully accused of Regto’s murder and banished into The Pit, marking only the initial steps on my arduous journey for vengeance and justice. This odyssey teaches me the bitter truth that much of the world harbors animosity towards me, leaving me with no other choice but to fight tooth and nail for my right to survive. Yet, despite its apparent adherence to shonen anime tropes, this episode effectively demonstrates why deviating from tradition might not be the key to success.

Gachiakuta Reveals the Anime’s Setting & Power Systems

The Episode Is the Start of Gachiakuta’s Real Story

The first episode of “Gachiakuta” isn’t your typical action-packed battle anime as one might expect, given the hype. Instead, it focuses on introducing Rudo and his classist society. However, it only provides a vague glimpse into the world, mainly highlighting discrimination against tribespeople and their harsh justice system. Fortunately, the second episode quickly dives into the main storyline, shedding light on aspects previously left unclear in the first episode.

In Episode 2 of Gachiakuta, we learn that Rudo was expelled from The Sphere and dumped into The Pit. Unlike other sky cities, The Pit appears to exist within its own dimensional space. This vast trash heap is home to the monstrous, almost immortal creatures known as Trash Beasts. People living here are either scavengers or members of a group called Cleaners who fight against the Trash Beasts.

Rudo possesses unique abilities that enable him to transform everyday objects into weapons. He belongs to a mysterious group called “Givers.” The fact that this entire story unfolds in The Pit without any cuts to other locations is worth noting.

In a nutshell, Episode 2 of Gachiakuta underscores some crucial points. Residents of The Pit suffer more abuse than the tribespeople, and they deeply resent the Spherites for their destruction of their homeland. The episode effectively conveys this message through characters directly addressing Rudo without interruptions, although it might be considered overly explicit or non-dialogic. The main complaint about Gachiakuta Episode 2 is its lack of subtlety and humor.

The Episode’s Lack of Nuance & Complexity Is Impossible to Deny

In my opinion, once more, the characters in Gachiakuta seem to spew raw hostility towards Spherites and Rudo without any apparent provocation. It appears that Rudo harbors a deep-seated resentment towards anyone not belonging to Regto, yet this aspect hasn’t been delved into meaningfully or explored thoroughly. If you found the thematic simplicity of Episode 1 intriguing, you might find the escalation in Episode 2’s portrayal of juvenile nihilism frustrating. However, it’s essential to clarify that my issue with Gachiakuta isn’t about its messages or style, but rather the lack of originality in its presentation.

In other words, since these stories take place in fictional realms filled with individuals boasting extraordinary abilities, it’s not surprising that they avoid depicting subtle forms of prejudice. After all, the bigotry displayed by The Ground’s inhabitants might seem excessively basic and unreasonable because hatred is irrational and nonsensical. In fact, it’s refreshing to encounter a popular narrative that doesn’t shy away from portraying racism as inherently foolish. However, it’s important to acknowledge that these themes can also be overused tropes in the genre of dark fantasies and dystopian narratives similar to Gachiakuta.

People who have watched anime like Tokyo Ghoul are likely familiar with Gahicakuta’s views on discrimination caused by class distinctions and prejudices towards individuals with unique abilities. Interestingly, Rudo’s hatred can be seen as a result of this discrimination rather than an exploration of human nature or societal issues. It seems that the show could offer more insight into these themes, as Gahicakuta’s underlying messages may hold profound and contemporary meanings instead of rehashing past ideas.

Gachiakuta Begins Rudo’s Formulaic Character Arc as a Shonen Anti-hero

The Episode Deepens Rudo’s Relationships With His Mentor & Father Figures

In Gachiakuta Episode 2, what stands out is the introduction of Enjin, a character who significantly brightens up an otherwise grim narrative. While Rudo learns about The Pit’s harsh reality and the power dynamics among the Givers, Enjin serves as a crucial element of comic relief. If Rudo had been the sole focus in Episode 2, the story might have slipped into an overly tragic tale that dwells excessively on misery. Instead, Enjin injects humor, provides Rudo with an entertaining sparring partner for dialogue, and sets up the foundation for future developments in Gachiakuta.

In the process that many past anime anti-hero characters have experienced, Rudo now journeys. It’s when he hits rock bottom (The Pit) where Rudo understands his sheltered upbringing. Considering his life in The Sphere, this speaks volumes. Life in The Pit isn’t hazardous merely due to the Trash Beasts, but because it teems with individuals who despise Spherites like him to such an extent that they would murder, torment, or sell them to even more monstrous beings. Fortunately for Rudo, there are powerful beings like Enjin who have never witnessed such cruelty before.

It’s clear that Rudo’s future storyline and transformation into a powerful anti-hero is reminiscent of many others in the shonen genre. While things might shift in Episode 3 and beyond, it appears that based on the events of Episode 2, his character development may follow a well-trodden path. However, Episode 2 does add more complexity to his character compared to typical shonen anti-heroes.

In Episode 2 of “Gachiakuta”, we see that Regto functions as Rudo’s moral compass and rational voice. Even when Rudo succumbs to anger, he continues to follow Regto’s teachings and values of kindness. This allows Rudo to reveal hidden talents as a Giver, even enabling him to imbue his powers into multiple objects. Although this development adds an interesting twist to the character arc, it lacks originality or novelty. Nevertheless, the outstanding animation in “Gachiakuta” Episode 2 is truly commendable and keeps the episode engaging.

Gachiakuta Episode 2’s Animation Is as Awesome & Excellent as Fans Wanted

Bones Films’ Hard-Hitting Action Animation Will Impress Everyone

In the second episode of “Gachiakuta”, it’s the animation that truly shines. While the first episode took its time to set up the worlds The Sphere and The Pit, the second episode showcases the visually stunning action that made the manga a hit among fans of fast-paced storytelling. Not only do we get to see the Trash Beasts move around in The Pit, but this episode features three incredible battles that grow more intense by the moment. Although Rudo’s and Enjin’s fights against the Trash Beasts are thrilling, it’s Rudo tapping into his hidden powers, inspired by Regto’s teachings in the climax, that makes Episode 2 truly stand out.

It’s evident that the animation quality in Bones Films has significantly improved since their stunning portrayal of superpowers (or Quirks) in My Hero Academia, and this is particularly noticeable in Gachiakuta. Each strike packs a punch as expected, and the resulting destruction underscores the force behind every blow. The abilities of Rudo and Enjin appear both menacing and empowering, as designed. Despite the battles becoming chaotic at times, the movements of the characters and the impact of their attacks remain clear and easy to follow. Additionally, it’s noteworthy that Bones Films’ animators haven’t held back on their skills solely for the action scenes; they’ve managed to maintain a high level of quality throughout.


Episode Number	Episode Title
1	The Sphere	6/10

In Episode 2 of “Gachiakuta,” I found myself deeply moved by the heartfelt portrayals of Rudo’s inner world. The memories of Regto, though tranquil and far away due to his recent demise, felt just right. The stark juxtaposition between Rudo’s tender recollections of Regto and the brutal, inhumane realities of The Pit served as a powerful visual narrative.

The prologue, set against a blank canvas, with Rudo reminiscing about Regto’s wisdom before he unleashed his raw powers in the climax, was particularly impactful. Granted, some of the comic scenes didn’t quite mesh with the darkness of the story, but this tonal inconsistency is something we often see in shonen anime. It doesn’t detract from the overall experience.

In a fresh and exciting turn, the second episode of “Gachiakuta” surpasses the first in numerous aspects. It’s a moment eagerly anticipated by fans of the manga, marking a significant start to the anime’s main storyline. This episode lays the foundation for future world-building, and introduces key characters who will play pivotal roles in Rudo’s journey within The Pit. Most significantly, “Gachiakuta” Episode 2 immerses viewers in the thrilling escape and enjoyment that are characteristic of power fantasies with a dark edge. If its second episode is any indication, “Gachiakuta” may not pioneer new territories anytime soon, but it’s certain to be one of the standout series.

Gachiakuta streams exclusively on starting July 6, 2025.

2025-07-04 18:53