A visual experiment in 2D and 3D hybrid animation
In short: The 2016 Berserk series attempted a radical technical shift, blending traditional hand-drawn aesthetics with full CG. While the production sparked intense debate over its visual fidelity, it aimed to create a unique uniform look by applying manual sketching techniques—like linear hatching—directly onto digital models.
Produced by Liden Films in collaboration with GEMBA and Millepensee, the series sought to innovate beyond standard animation. Producer Reo Kurosu described the approach as a deliberate hybrid: the director, Shin Itagaki, provided 2D storyboards, but the production team chose between full CG, traditional 2D, or a mix depending on the specific needs of each scene.
To bridge the gap between these mediums, the studio utilized cel shading to make 3D characters resemble 2D art. A key technical detail involved applying linear hatching—simulating pen or pencil shading—to the shadows of 3D objects. This same effect was mirrored on 2D models to ensure a cohesive visual language across different animation styles.
The series received polarized critical reception regarding these choices. Some critics, like Jacob Hope Chapman, described the result as 'abominably ugly' and 'forcefully unpleasant,' citing cut-rate CGI and disorienting camera work. Conversely, others like Cecilia D'Anastasio argued that the direction successfully 'beautified and civilized' a fighting-heavy genre, noting that the strength of Kentaro Miura’s source material helped carry the production through its technical struggles.
Despite the aesthetic controversy, the series maintains strong ties to the franchise. Original author Kentaro Miura served as executive supervisor, and the primary voice cast reprised their roles from the Golden Age Arc films. The music also featured a mix of new themes by 9mm Parabellum Bullet and Nagi Yanagi, alongside two tracks by Susumu Hirasawa, who composed for both the 1997 anime and the film trilogy.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Berserk (2016 TV series)
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