Sony’s Crackle recently shifted to a new layout centered around category-specific channels. One of those channels offers anime to its viewers, and Crackle just gave otaku a good reason to check out that hub. The video platform has acquired the streaming rights to Robotech, a classic anime franchise that, according to a press release, will “anchor” the Crackle anime channel.
Robotech’s 85 episodes (and a 2006 feature film, which Crackle has also acquired) chronicle a series of wars between humans and advanced aliens who pose an existential threat. By reverse engineering alien technology, the humans are able to fight back an ultimately triumph over the alien menace. Robotech’s thrilling battles and strong characters have earned it plenty of praise over the years; in 2009, IGN named it the 34th best animated series of all time.
On its YouTube channel, Crackle has released a video that hypes Robotech and gives potential viewers a brief overview of the show and its history:
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Anime has emerged as a powerful niche genre for digital streaming service. Otter Media-owned Crunchyroll, for example, has built its entire business around the passion of anime fans by selling subscriptions for $6.95 per month. Crackle’s ad-supported platform could be a strong alternative for viewers who don’t wish to pay that sort of premium, but in order to attract viewers, the Sony-owned site will need to assemble a strong library.
Consider Robotech a promising start to that plan. The show’s entire library will become available for streaming on Crackle on May 15th.
