Golden Axe Creators Discuss Paramount+ Series and Lower Decks in Reddit AMA

Developing the World of Yuria for Animation

Adapting a 1989 arcade and Genesis game into a narrative television series required balancing distinct tones. According to showrunner Mike McMahan, the decision to inject comedy into the fantasy setting was intentional, noting that fantasy and comedy pair effectively. The creative team chose to focus on building an original narrative within the core “Golden Axe” universe rather than executing a crossover with other Sega properties. Sega acted as a supportive steward of the lore throughout production.

When asked about the weapons featured in the show’s ancient setting, McMahan joked about various elemental iterations including silver, barium, oxygen, and neptunium axes, noting that ancient inhabitants would likely call oxygen “good air.” Chandler pointed out that a standard steel axe remains the most practical choice for characters like Ax Battler.

Getting “Golden Axe” Greenlit and Future Seasons

Securing the greenlight for the animated adaptation involved a combination of timing and studio relationships. McMahan stated that the commercial success of Paramount’s “Sonic the Hedgehog” feature films helped pave the way, alongside positive experiences between Paramount, CBS, and the creative team on “Star Trek: Lower Decks.” McMahan expressed a desire to run “Golden Axe” through four seasons, while Chandler joked that the team will be calling all the shots in five years.

The conversation also touched on “Star Trek: Lower Decks,” with fans asking about unmade episodes and potential continuations. McMahan revealed he wanted to produce seasons 6 through 10, an entire “Voyager” thematic season, and a flashback episode detailing Billups’ upbringing. McMahan encouraged fans interested in a continuation of “Lower Decks” to make their voices heard at Paramount.

Industry Insights and Professional Paths

Reflecting on the trajectory of the animation industry over the next five years, Giancarlo Volpe acknowledged concerns regarding artificial intelligence replacing artists, while remaining optimistic about independent creators producing high-quality work with small teams. Volpe emphasized the importance of continued studio investment in both animation and its workforce.

The creators also detailed their respective entries into the industry:

• Joe Chandler: Followed a path from intern to assistant, executive, writer, and eventually showrunner, emphasizing that animation production requires collaboration and supporting talented artists.
• Mike McMahan: Advised aspiring creators to be specific about their goals, produce work consistently, and uplift their peers.
• Giancarlo Volpe: Began as a character animator on interactive CD-ROM titles like “Putt-Putt Enters the Race” and “Pajama Sam” before moving into storyboarding and directing, advising artists to study the job role directly above their current position.

Exploring Sega’s Catalog

The creators shared personal nostalgia for Sega video games spanning multiple console generations. Volpe recalled playing “Golden Axe” in arcades and testing “Altered Beast” at Sears display kiosks, alongside titles like “Phantasy Star,” “Power Stone,” and “Virtua Fighter.” Chandler highlighted the sports-bunching game “Arch Rivals,” while McMahan cited “Golden Axe” during childhood, “Sonic the Hedgehog” in high school, and Dreamcast favorites like “Virtua Tennis,” “Soulcalibur,” “Crazy Taxi,” and “Super Monkey Ball” in college.

Looking ahead at other Sega properties they would like to adapt, McMahan expressed interest in a gritty version of “Super Monkey Ball,” a dramatic take on “Ecco the Dolphin,” and a romantic approach to “House of the Dead.” Chandler pointed to “Arch Rivals” and “ToeJam & Earl,” while Volpe named “Power Stone” and “Streets of Rage 4.”