Golden Axe Review: A Snarky Look at SEGA’s 16-Bit Era
When a new animated series is announced, skepticism is the default setting. But when Paramount+ unveiled its adaptation of SEGA’s classic 1989 beat ’em up game, Golden Axe, expectations were low. Could these characters carry a whole season of sword-and-sorcery chaos? The answer, turning out, was a resounding and delightfully chaotic yes.
This animated adventure dives deep into the realm of Yuria, expanding the world of the arcade classic into a genuinely fun, funny, and often absurd fantasy experience. It pays loving homage to the retro roots while layering on a unique sense of self-aware humor and over-the-top action.
At the heart of the action are the iconic trio: Ax Battler, Tyris Flare, and Gilius Thunderhead. These warriors are bound by an often-strained dynamic, and their journey to save their world is defined by their constant disagreements—a dynamic that initially felt like a misfire, yet eventually became the source of some of the show’s best character chemistry.
The plot kicks into gear when the trio realizes their nemesis, Death Adder, has survived their last encounter. Armed with the legendary Golden Axe, enchanted by a shard of the Emerald Blade, they must embark on a desperate quest. But because they are constantly at odds, their mission forces them to split up, creating a variety of off-the-wall scenarios that keep the action unpredictable.
Gilius sets off on his own quest, crossing paths with Hampton Squib, an inexperienced rookie adventurer. Their odd-couple dynamic forms the foundation for some of the show’s most heartwarming—and hilarious—interactions, as Gilius slowly learns to open up and find a meaningful partnership.
Meanwhile, Ax Battler and Tyris pursue their own path, often needing to team up with unexpected allies like Chronos “Evil” Lait. This splintered narrative structure allows the writing team to sprinkle in a basketful of Easter eggs for hardcore fans of the franchise, rewarding those who look closely for nods to the classic games.
The humor is distributed evenly across the board. From the outlandish enemies they face—skeleton hordes and enchanted townsfolk—to the characters’ own tangents and self-deprecating remarks, the show revels in its absurdity. It finds its footing beautifully, allowing the characters to be hilariously dysfunctional while still delivering high-stakes adventure.
The success of the series is amplified by its stellar voice cast. Gilius (Matthew Rhys) and Tyris (Lisa Gilroy), among the talented ensemble, approach their roles with boundless energy and a charming lack of self-seriousness, making them instantly memorable. Even if the early episodes take a moment to adjust to the manic pace, the series eventually delivers a masterclass in action and wit.
Ultimately, Golden Axe is a vibrant, slightly crude, and wonderfully ridiculous take on high fantasy. It proves that even a franchise rooted in beat ’em ups can find a distinctive, living identity. It’s a show that doesn’t just honor the past; it playfully redefines it, leaving viewers charmed and ready for another season of sword-and-sorcery shenanigans.
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