Get ready to travel back to 1969, because Gate Keepers, the classic anime from Studio Gonzo, is now streaming on Crunchyroll! This news has fans excited for a rewatch, or perhaps a first-time viewing, of this action-packed series that blends science fiction, mecha, and high school drama. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting addition to Crunchyroll’s catalog.
What is Gate Keepers?
Gate Keepers is an anime series that originally aired in Japan from April to September 2000. The story is set in 1969 Japan, where a secret organization called A.E.G.I.S. (Alien Exterminating Global Intercept System) is tasked with defending the world from Invaders. These Invaders are aliens who can possess humans, causing chaos and destruction.
The key to A.E.G.I.S.’s defense lies with individuals known as “Gate Keepers.” These individuals possess the ability to open dimensional gates, granting them unique superpowers. The series follows Shun Ukiya, a high school student who discovers he is a Gate Keeper when Invaders attack his home. Together with other Gate Keepers, Shun battles the Invaders to protect Earth.
The anime was adapted from a PlayStation tactical role-playing game released in 1999. It also spawned a manga series and a sequel OVA (Original Video Animation) called Gate Keepers 21, which is set 32 years after the original series.
What to Expect From Gate Keepers
Gate Keepers offers a unique blend of genres that appeals to a wide range of anime fans.
- Action: The series is filled with exciting battles between the Gate Keepers and the Invaders, featuring a variety of special abilities and mecha.
- Science Fiction: The concept of dimensional gates, alien invaders, and advanced technology gives the series a strong science fiction element.
- Comedy: Despite the serious premise, Gate Keepers incorporates humor through its characters and situations.
- Drama: The series explores themes of friendship, responsibility, and romance, adding depth to the action-packed storyline.
- Mecha: While not the primary focus, Gate Keepers features mecha designs that add to the visual appeal of the series.
Story and Setting
The anime is set in Japan in 1969. Shun Ukiya, a typical high school student, stumbles upon a hidden power when his hometown is attacked by mysterious beings known as “Invaders.” Shun discovers that he is a “Gate Keeper,” one of a select few individuals who can open dimensional gates and wield extraordinary abilities. He joins A.E.G.I.S., a secret organization dedicated to protecting the world from the Invaders.
The story follows Shun and his fellow Gate Keepers as they learn to control their powers, work together as a team, and uncover the secrets behind the Invaders’ origins and motivations. The series blends action-packed battles with character development, exploring the personal lives and relationships of the Gate Keepers as they balance their duties with their everyday lives.
Key Characters
- Shun Ukiya: The main protagonist, Shun is a spirited high school student who discovers his ability to open the Gate of Wind. He is known for his determination and courage in the face of danger.
- Ruriko Ikusawa: One of the first Gate Keepers recruited by A.E.G.I.S. in Japan, Ruriko controls the Gate of Life. She is a skilled fighter and a strong leader.
- Reiko Asagiri: Another Gate Keeper with unique abilities, Reiko’s character arc focuses on her struggle to find her place within the team and prove her worth.
- Keiko Ochiai: A cheerful and energetic member of the Gate Keepers, Keiko adds a comedic element to the series.
Production Details
Gate Keepers was directed by Kōichi Chigira, with series composition by Hiroshi Yamaguchi and character designs by Keiji Gotoh. The music was composed by Kōhei Tanaka. The anime was produced by Studio Gonzo, known for its work on other popular series such as Full Metal Panic! and Hellsing.
Availability on Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll began streaming Gate Keepers on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. The series is available in Japanese with English subtitles. All 24 episodes of the original anime are now accessible to Crunchyroll subscribers.
Reception and Reviews
Gate Keepers has garnered mixed reviews over the years. Some critics have praised the series for its exciting action sequences, engaging characters, and nostalgic feel, while others have criticized it for its cliché plot elements and inconsistent animation quality.
Despite its flaws, Gate Keepers has maintained a dedicated fan base who appreciate its unique blend of genres and its memorable characters. The series has been praised for its comedic moments, its exploration of character relationships, and its overall sense of fun.
Why You Should Watch It
- Classic Anime: Gate Keepers is a product of the early 2000s anime scene, offering a nostalgic experience for fans who grew up with similar series.
- Unique Blend of Genres: The series combines elements of action, science fiction, comedy, drama, and mecha, appealing to a wide range of viewers.
- Engaging Characters: The Gate Keepers are a diverse group of individuals with their own unique personalities, motivations, and backstories.
- Fun and Entertaining: Despite its serious themes, Gate Keepers never takes itself too seriously, offering a lighthearted and enjoyable viewing experience.
Is Gate Keepers 21 Also Coming to Crunchyroll?
As of today, June 5, 2025, there has been no announcement regarding Gate Keepers 21, the OVA sequel, being added to Crunchyroll. However, given the popularity of the original series and the demand from fans, it is possible that Crunchyroll may add the sequel in the future. Keep an eye on Crunchyroll’s announcements for any potential updates.
Final Thoughts
The addition of Gate Keepers to Crunchyroll is exciting news for anime fans who have been waiting for a chance to revisit this classic series. With its unique blend of genres, engaging characters, and nostalgic feel, Gate Keepers is sure to provide hours of entertainment. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of Gate Keepers on Crunchyroll. So, get ready to “Open the Gate!” and join Shun and his fellow Gate Keepers in their fight to save Earth from the Invaders!
