Score Unprecedented Savings on Evangelion 1.11 and 2.22 Blu-Ray Preorders at Amazon: A Deep Dive for Dedicated Fans
At Gaming News, we understand the fervent dedication of Evangelion fans. The anticipation for readily available, high-quality physical releases of the Rebuild of Evangelion series has been palpable for years. Today, we are thrilled to announce and provide an in-depth look at a significant opportunity for collectors and new fans alike: discounted preorders for Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance on Blu-ray, now available at Amazon. This marks a pivotal moment for many, as these critically acclaimed films have been notoriously difficult to acquire in the United States for an extended period, with previous editions becoming effectively out of print shortly after their initial release.
A Resurgence of Availability: Evangelion’s Blu-Ray Renaissance
The landscape of physical media for the beloved Rebuild of Evangelion saga has been a complex one for fans residing in the US. For many years, securing copies of the earlier films, particularly Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance, on Blu-ray has been a significant challenge. The most recent editions that saw widespread distribution in the US were released approximately a decade ago, around the 2010-2011 period. Since then, these releases have largely vanished from standard retail channels, driving up prices on the secondary market and leaving a considerable gap in the collection of many enthusiasts.
This new wave of availability, announced with a release date of October 21st, is therefore a monumental event. The fact that Amazon is offering preorders for both Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance on Blu-ray for a mere $24 each represents a substantial saving. This price point is a 20% discount from their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $30. This is not merely a promotional price; it signifies a renewed commitment from distributors to make these essential entries in the Rebuild series accessible to the American audience. For those who have patiently waited, or for newcomers eager to experience the foundational chapters of this epic narrative in their highest fidelity, this is an opportunity that demands immediate attention. The availability of these films at such an attractive price point, directly from a major retailer like Amazon, is a testament to the enduring popularity and critical acclaim of Hideaki Anno’s visionary work.
Unpacking the Significance of the Rebuild Series: 1.11 and 2.22
To truly appreciate the magnitude of these discounted preorders, it is crucial to understand the intrinsic value and importance of Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance within the broader Rebuild of Evangelion narrative. These films are not mere remakes; they are ambitious reinterpretations that offer a fresh perspective on the iconic characters, intricate plotlines, and philosophical underpinnings that have captivated audiences for decades.
Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone serves as the stunning introduction to this new cinematic journey. It meticulously retells the early events of the original Neon Genesis Evangelion series, introducing Shinji Ikari, the reluctant pilot of Evangelion Unit-01, and the formidable organization NERV. However, from its inception, the Rebuild series signaled a departure, with subtle yet significant changes in character dynamics, visual presentation, and narrative pacing. The “1.11” designation itself indicates an updated version from the original theatrical release, often incorporating improvements in animation and sound. This film masterfully sets the stage, reintroducing the visceral combat sequences against the Angels and the pervasive sense of unease that defines the Evangelion universe, all while hinting at the deeper mysteries that lie ahead. For many, this Blu-ray release is their first chance to experience this foundational film with pristine audio and visual quality, a crucial element for appreciating the meticulous detail in its animation and sound design.
Following closely is Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance. This installment significantly diverges from the original series, introducing new characters, expanding upon existing lore, and escalating the stakes dramatically. The introduction of the spirited and enigmatic Mari Makinami Illustrious is a particularly noteworthy element, adding a new dynamic to the established cast. Furthermore, the film deepens the complexities of characters like Asuka Langley Shikinami (distinct from her original series counterpart) and Rei Ayanami, exploring their internal struggles and relationships with Shinji in new and compelling ways. The “2.22” iteration signifies further refinements from the initial theatrical release of Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance, often including additional scenes, enhanced animation, and improved sound mixing. This film is celebrated for its breathtaking animation, particularly during the climactic battles, and its ability to balance moments of intense action with profound emotional depth. Owning these films on Blu-ray allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in the meticulously crafted world, appreciating every frame of animation and every nuance of the powerful soundtrack. The visual fidelity offered by Blu-ray is essential for fully grasping the artistic vision behind these films, from the intricate mechanical designs of the Evangelions to the evocative landscapes of Tokyo-3.
Bridging the Gap: The Importance of Completing the Rebuild Collection
The renewed availability of Evangelion: 1.11 and Evangelion: 2.22 on Blu-ray is more than just a transactional event for fans; it is a significant step towards achieving a complete and accessible collection of the Rebuild of Evangelion series. For a considerable time, the inability to easily procure the first two films has created a frustrating roadblock for those wishing to experience the entire saga in its intended format.
The hope among the fanbase is that this reprint of the earlier Rebuild films will pave the way for similar releases of Evangelion: 3.33 You Can (Not) Redo. As it stands, obtaining the Blu-ray version of 3.33 has also been a challenge for many in the US, with the DVD version being the more readily attainable option. However, the release strategy for 1.11 and 2.22 suggests a potential shift in distribution, and we are optimistic that this trend will continue. A complete Blu-ray collection allows fans to witness the evolution of the series, from its ambitious reimaginings to its increasingly complex and often controversial narrative turns. The visual and auditory experience of the Rebuild films is paramount to their impact, and having all entries on Blu-ray ensures a consistent and high-quality viewing experience.
Adding to the excitement, the most recent installment, Evangelion: 3.0+1.11 Thrice Upon a Time, has seen more recent and diverse physical media releases. Last summer, a special Steelbook Edition was made available, offering a premium collector’s item. Notably, this edition was priced competitively, often available for just a few dollars more than the standard Blu-ray edition due to promotional offers at retailers like Amazon. This further underscores the growing accessibility of the Rebuild series. Moreover, for those seeking the absolute pinnacle of visual fidelity, Evangelion: 3.0+1.11 is currently the only film in the Rebuild series available on 4K Blu-ray in the United States. While this edition is currently limited to a more expensive Collector’s Edition priced at $55 (down from an original $80 MSRP), its existence highlights the increasing availability of the later films in premium formats. The staggered release and format availability across the series have been a source of frustration, but the current discounts on 1.11 and 2.22 offer a significant opportunity to consolidate and complete one’s collection at a much more manageable cost. This allows fans to finally possess the complete Rebuild of Evangelion saga on Blu-ray, a long-awaited achievement for many dedicated followers.
Maximizing Your Preorder Advantage: Understanding the Discounts
The 20% discount offered on Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance Blu-ray preorders at Amazon is a substantial incentive. At $24 each, these titles represent a significant saving compared to their usual retail price of $30. For collectors who have been seeking these films, or for those who missed out on the initial releases, this is an opportune moment to secure these vital pieces of Evangelion history.
When considering the overall cost of building a complete Rebuild collection, the savings on these two films become even more impactful. If one were to purchase both at their full MSRP, the total would be $60. With the current discount, that total is reduced to $48, a saving of $12. While this might seem like a modest amount in isolation, when factored into the acquisition of the entire series, which can include the more premium releases of the later films, these upfront savings can contribute meaningfully to the overall affordability of completing the collection.
The decision to preorder is also strategic. Given the history of these titles being out of print, there’s no guarantee of sustained availability once these new editions are released. Preordering ensures that you secure your copies at the discounted price and have them delivered on or around the release date of October 21st. This proactive approach is often the best strategy for acquiring sought-after physical media, especially for titles with a proven track record of limited availability. The convenience of having them delivered directly from Amazon, a trusted and efficient retailer, further enhances the appeal of this offer. For fans who have waited years for this opportunity, acting on these discounts is a practical and financially sound decision. The long wait for these releases to become readily available again means that many fans are eager to secure their copies, and these discounted preorders are the most sensible way to do so.
Technical Specifications and Viewing Experience: Why Blu-ray Matters
The transition from DVD to Blu-ray represents a significant upgrade in terms of audio and visual quality, and for a visually and aurally rich series like Evangelion, this difference is profound. The Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance Blu-ray editions promise to deliver the series with an enhanced viewing experience that is crucial for appreciating the intricate details of the animation and the immersive sound design.
High Definition Visuals: Blu-ray discs offer a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, which is a substantial leap from the standard definition of DVDs (typically 480p). This means that the intricate line work, detailed character designs, and expansive mecha animation will be rendered with far greater clarity and sharpness. Fans will be able to discern subtle nuances in the animation that may have been lost or blurred on lower-resolution formats. The vibrant color palettes, the atmospheric lighting, and the dynamic visual effects that are hallmarks of the Rebuild series will be presented with greater fidelity, bringing the world of Evangelion to life in a way that was previously impossible. The meticulous attention to detail by Studio Khara, the animation studio behind the Rebuild films, is best appreciated in high definition.
Enhanced Audio Quality: Beyond visuals, Blu-ray also supports advanced audio codecs such as DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD. These formats offer lossless audio, meaning the sound is transmitted exactly as it was mixed in the studio. This translates to a richer, more dynamic, and more immersive audio experience. The iconic soundtrack by Shiro Sagisu, the thunderous roars of the Angels, the distinctive sounds of the Evangelion units, and the powerful voice performances will all be delivered with exceptional clarity and impact. This enhanced audio quality is vital for conveying the emotional weight and visceral excitement of the series, allowing viewers to feel every tremor and every powerful moment. The carefully crafted soundscape of Evangelion is as integral to its atmosphere as its visuals, and Blu-ray allows fans to experience this in its full glory.
The October 21st release date for these Blu-ray editions at Amazon provides a tangible target for fans eager to upgrade their collections. By securing these preorders, you are not just acquiring movies; you are investing in the definitive way to experience these pivotal installments of the Rebuild of Evangelion saga, ensuring that you can fully appreciate the artistic vision and narrative depth that has made this franchise a global phenomenon. The discounted price makes this investment even more accessible, allowing a wider audience to partake in this long-awaited release.
Concluding Thoughts: A Golden Opportunity for Evangelion Aficionados
The arrival of discounted preorders for Evangelion: 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance on Blu-ray at Amazon is a momentous occasion for the dedicated fanbase of the Rebuild of Evangelion series. After years of scarcity and limited availability for these crucial early films, this renewed distribution marks a significant turning point. The $24 price point, representing a 20% discount from the $30 MSRP, offers an unparalleled opportunity to acquire these high-definition releases at an accessible cost.
For those who have been patiently waiting to complete their collections, or for newcomers eager to dive into the Rebuild saga with the best possible visual and audio quality, this is the moment to act. The release date of October 21st is fast approaching, and securing these preorders is the most reliable way to ensure you receive your copies without delay. The logistical challenges of acquiring these films in the past have been well-documented, and this new wave of availability, coupled with attractive pricing, should not be missed.
We at Gaming News are committed to bringing you the most significant news and opportunities within the gaming and anime communities. This particular announcement is of paramount importance for Evangelion enthusiasts worldwide. By taking advantage of these Amazon Blu-ray preorders, you are not only investing in quality entertainment but also in the tangible legacy of one of anime’s most influential and thought-provoking franchises. The prospect of a more complete and readily available Rebuild series, with the hope for future releases of 3.33, makes this a particularly exciting time for fans. Embrace this chance to own a definitive piece of the Evangelion legacy.