Original OVA Series

Lore & Background

Set in the distant future within the Milky Way Galaxy, the series depicts a galaxy divided between two warring powers: the monarchic Galactic Empire and the democratic Free Planets Alliance. The conflict began in SE 640 (IC 331/AD 3440) with a major Alliance victory and has continued for over 150 years by the time the story starts in SE 796 (IC 487/AD 3596). The Empire, originally founded by Emperor Rudolf I on Odin in the Valhalla system, is plagued by corruption under its Goldenbaum dynasty. Opposing them is a neutral planet-state called Fezzan, which acts as a trickster link between the two sides while secretly orchestrating conspiracies with the Terraism cult to manipulate the war for their own ends.

In Their Own Story

The narrative centers on two rival geniuses rising through the ranks of opposing fleets. In the Empire, Reinhard von Müsel (later Lohengramm) seeks to free his sister Annerose from the Kaiser and overthrow the Goldenbaum dynasty. He is driven by ambition to unify the galaxy under his rule while defeating the Alliance. Conversely, Yang Wen-li joined the Free Planets Alliance Star Fleet only out of financial need for tuition, originally aspiring to be a historian. Rapidly promoted to commodore due to strategic excellence, Yang becomes Reinhard's arch-rival. They hold deep mutual respect despite their rivalry; Yang is celebrated for underdog victories that mitigate casualties, often noting, "There are few wars between good and evil; most are between one good and another good." The series focuses on the big picture of this war, chronicling multiple characters as they navigate political upheavals and massive fleet battles.

Reader's Guide

Fans should note that while the novels focus on personal matters of the main players, this OVA adaptation emphasizes the "big picture" of the war with a broader cast. The story begins shortly after the first combat encounter between Reinhard and Yang depicted in the prequel film. Viewers will witness the slow rise of Reinhard's Lohengramm faction against the entrenched nobility and see Yang's tactical brilliance defend the Alliance from seemingly impossible odds. The 1988–1997 run covers the entire arc, including Fezzan's machinations and the Terraism cult's influence. It is recommended to watch in release order or episode number, as it builds a comprehensive history of this galactic conflict without skipping major political shifts or battles.

Did You Know?

• The series is also known by the grammatically incorrect German title Heldensagen vom Kosmosinsel in its opening credits.
• Released as direct home video installments across four separate periods between December 1988 and March 1997.
• This OVA follows the film My Conquest Is the Sea of Stars, picking up exactly where that story left off.
• The narrative covers a war that has lasted over 150 years by the time the story begins in SE 796.
• Unlike the novels which focus on personal matters, this specific anime adaptation focuses on the big picture of the war.