In an exciting move, Toonami has announced the premiere of the remastered version of the anime classic, “Immortal Grand Prix” (IPGX). This revelation comes as part of Toonami’s dedication to bringing back fan-favorite series for both longtime enthusiasts and newcomers to enjoy.
The Return of a Classic: IPGX Remastered Anime (Immortal Grand Prix)
Originally introduced in 2003 as Toonami’s very first original series, IPGX returns to the screen with enhanced visuals and a revamped viewing experience. Toonami unveiled the highly anticipated premiere date of November 5 at 2:00 a.m. EST, coinciding with the end of Daylight Saving Time. Following the initial airing, fans can catch subsequent episodes on Sundays at 2:30 a.m. EST.
A Futuristic World of Mechs and Racing
IPGX, a mecha anime, is known for its high-speed racing and combat events featuring teams of pilots controlling customizable mechs in a futuristic world. This anime is particularly special, given that it was Toonami’s maiden voyage into producing its original content. The collaboration between Production I.G and Cartoon Network yielded a series that was both visually stunning and action-packed.
Toonami’s Commitment to Fan Nostalgia
Toonami’s commitment to rekindling fond memories doesn’t stop with IPGX. On November 12 at 12:00 a.m. EST, they are set to introduce the “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Mugen Train Arc” anime to their programming. Additionally, fans can look forward to the second cours (quarter of a year) of “Dr. Stone: New World,” which marks the third season of the beloved “Dr. Stone” anime, airing on November 12 at 1:00 a.m. EST.
A Glimpse into the Past
For those who recall the early 2000s and Toonami’s pioneering efforts, IPGX holds a special place as the programming block’s first original anime. Production I.G and Cartoon Network’s collaboration paved the way for a series that captivated viewers with its intriguing mix of 2D and 3D animation, seamlessly blending racing and mecha combat. This anime was unique in that it was crafted with a Western audience in mind, a testament to its success in appealing to a global viewership.
A Star-Studded Cast
The original IPGX featured a star-studded English dubbed cast, boasting the likes of Steve Blum and Beau Billingslea from “Cowboy Bebop,” Mark Hamill of “Star Wars” fame, and Tom Kenny, renowned as the voice of “Spongebob Squarepants,” among others. Despite the talent and effort invested in the series, IPGX did not reach the level of success that its creators had envisioned. A key reason cited was the challenge of trying to cater to both Japanese and American audiences, resulting in an anime that fell short for both markets.
Remastering for a New Generation
The remastered episodes of IPGX are the result of Discotek Media’s upcoming Blu-ray release of the series. This release promises a higher resolution of the entire IPGX series, encompassing both seasons, with the possibility of exciting extras, subject to approval by the licensor. While a release date for the Blu-ray version is still pending, Toonami’s screening offers eager fans the first opportunity to witness these remastered episodes.
A Fresh Viewing Experience
As of now, IPGX is not available on any official streaming platforms in the U.S., making Toonami’s premiere all the more significant for fans. Although the original IPGX series can be found on DVD through resellers on platforms like Amazon, the remastered version provides a fresh and enhanced viewing experience for both existing enthusiasts and those discovering the series for the first time.
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Conclusion
In summary, Toonami’s announcement of the IPGX remastered anime premiere brings a sense of nostalgia and anticipation to fans. With its history as Toonami’s inaugural original series and its revamped visuals, IPGX promises to captivate a new generation of viewers while rekindling fond memories for those who were part of its early 2000s journey. The return of this classic is not just a celebration of the past but also an opportunity for fans to appreciate the timeless appeal of IPGX in a new light.
