Fate... Belonging... Love... these are all things Mawaru Penguindrum addresses, and it does so expertly, albeit in not the most easily digestible manner. Penguindrum is an incredibly deep and complex series. It makes heavy use of symbolism and metaphors that are not easily noticeable nor understood. If one makes an effort to try and understand it, Mawaru Penguindrum is an exceptionally impactful series. This effort to try and understand Mawaru Penguindrum will likely require more than one watch of the series-- and this is where Re:cycle of the Penguindrum comes into play. Before I begin the review proper, I wish to express that I DONOT recommend this for first time viewers of the Mawaru Penguindrum series.

Re:cycle of the Penguindrum is an abridged version of the main series that features many of the same events with a few new scenes added. There are also a few new insert songs added that are totally worth listening to! This being said, many scenes are also absent that are necessary to fully enjoy what this series has to offer. With this in mind, I recommend Re:cycle of the Penguindrum to people who fall into one the following categories:

- Watched the original Mawaru Penguindrum but did not understand it, and want to try again without dedicating time to a full 24 episode series
- Have already watched Mawaru Penguindrum a long time ago and want a (comparatively) quick refresher of the series
- Loved the original series and want to see new scenes (mostly featuring a character by the name of Momoka) and/or listen to the new insert songs

Re:cycle of Penguindrum features the same marvelous yet perplexing story as the original that is very much worth experiencing; with the characters tying it all together. The art and sound direction are on par as well. Re:cycle of the Penguindrum is a useful tool for those who wish to understand this series better or need a refresher; and combined with online explanations, it will make it possible. But PLEASE, DO NOT use this as an introduction to Mawaru Penguindrum-- watch the original series instead.

This is the end of the review proper, but if you want to know why I feel this way about Re:cycle of the Penguindrum, please continue reading to see my personal experience.

I watched the original Mawaru Penguindrum in the Spring of 2021 and I thought it was boring, and did not understand what the series was trying to convey. I scored the original series a 6. It left a lasting impression on me, however, and remained on my mind. A couple years later, Re:cycle of the Penguindrum was announced, and during Fall of 2023 I had the chance to watch it. Re:cycle of the Penguindrum refreshed my mind on the series and completely reinvigorated my interest. After completing it, I promptly did extensive research into the symbolism and the inner workings of the series. A month after watching Re:cycle of the Penguindrum, I decided to re-watch the original Mawaru Penguindrum with my newfound knowledge and appreciation for the series. This re-watch was one of the most satisfying watches of my anime-watching career, and it earned Mawaru Penguindrum a hefty score promotion-- up to a 10. If you find yourself in the same boat, please give this series another chance. It will be worth it.

"I love the word "fate." I believe that I'm never alone."
Now... let's begin this rail of fate and all watch Penguindrum, shall we?