This is another under the radar gem, this was of course a licensed animated adaptation of the film "Robocop". Of course, like with most licensed animated adaptations there was a liberty or two that had to be taken so it would be appropriate for small screen viewers. However, it wasn't totally watered down because it was still true to its source being dark and violent (well PG-13 level but in a good way). This animated adaptation isn't quite a classic, but it could have been, I personally wish it ran a little longer maybe this show could have gotten up there with "The Real Ghostbusters", "Godzilla the Series", etc.
The animation is solid, from the background animation to the character animation, one important thing about it of course Robocop as he looks true to his source. With all the mechanical physical features down to the silver coloring. The theme song is decent, it's a tune that I don't mind listening to and feels true to its source as it feels like it just sings "Robocop" or crime fighting of the future.
Characterization is true as I felt the voice actors did a good job in the roles of characters, we know like Sgt. Reed, Annie Lewis and of course Alex Murphy/Robocop.
Robocop in this show is still him but I like that in this show he display more of his human side while still doing his job. To me that was always the best thing about the character as he's a person that sort of represents the fine balance between humanity and technology. But also, they don't make him too strong as we do see Robo despite his abilities that make him more than human, doesn't make him invincible as we see he really does have to struggle at times depending on whatever scuffles comes his way.
I really like how the show explores a little more of Detroit city in the future, which is similar to the future in the anime series "Patlabor" another under the radar gem; though also the world from the "Iron Man" comics you can say this show is the closest we have to an Iron Man animated series for the 80's. We see everything still looks a little like the present but there are robots and lots of highly developed technology around and on the rise. But also like in the movie Detroit city is still a dangerous place to live as it's also got crime nowhere near short supply.
Action is solid it's well choreographed, it's true that you don't see any blood effects or too much death like in the film, it's an 80's cartoon after all. But as I said before it's not watered down as we still see Robo still doing what he does best kick ass and pull no punches. Like some of his movements where he still has the tank like movements and walking but we also see him run, jump even roll but the movements look natural and not flighty.
We see the weapons they have where their armed with laser guns, however the sound and function of them is that of regular guns which I thought was a cool little detail and gave the show a grounded sense. Really like some of the sound effects like that they incorporated the sound of Robo's cybernetic movements from the film which is cool those sounds are just music to my ears. Along with Robo's visual features like the targeting system as you see his viewpoint along with oncoming data. We see him fight the usual criminal element but best of all Robots or any other scientific creation gone amuck which gives Robo variety to fight.
I even like how the show wasn't afraid to be dark and smart (in a good way) just like the film it satired on issues that are just a relevant today as they are now. Like drugs, racism, sensationalism, rapid technological advancement, addiction to progress. But the show has a good message about why we should let technology be a tool and an ally and not the singular solution to everything.
I would love to see another animated series based on "Robocop" but we can make it one for adults and make sure the right voice cast is for each role most importantly "Robocop" if possible, get Peter Weller to do the voice. Well, it's a thought to consider anyway.
Robocop 1988 animated series hits the right places and for fans of the film franchise or even licensed animated adaptations, it's worth a shot.
Rating: 3 stars.
