Less episodes always means this challenge day is hard, and Bubblegum Crisis is no different. Although the episodes do follow a type of continuity, you could technically watch them in any order and not really lose much, and that gives each the equal opportunity to be my favorite.

Which just happens to be the first episode: “Tinsel City.” It features my absolute favorite track (which you will be able to listen to later on in the month) and introduces the Knight Sabers in one of the most visually cool ways possible: their suits are revealed with flashes of light, which has stuck with me ever since I first watched it.

Like so many anime, they don’t waste time explaining much about the setting: all you know is these women have hardsuits and they fight robots that go berserk for various reasons. Priss is the tough, no-nonsense rock singer (yes, don’t ask); Linna is the bubbly, athletic aerobics instructor; Nene is the brains, and Sylia is the elegant, reserved leader who also owns a lingerie store (again, don’t ask). They reveal as much as they need to to keep your interest, and honestly, they do a great job on all fronts.

This episode, in my opinion, is one of the more heavily influenced by Blade Runner – the Sabers are sent on a mission that is actually bigger than it appears, there’s a Boomer that maybe doesn’t realize it’s a Boomer, and even some of the character designs are reminiscent of the movie – but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. I’m not going to get too much into the plot because I want y’all to actually go watch this show*, but suffice to say that it’s energetic fun with plenty of action. Just be prepared to be creeped out by Sylia’s brother, Mackie, who incestuously ogles his sister’s boobs. Fair warning.

Art Credit: FanPop

* You can watch via Tubi or Sling TV.