It seems like I’ve always been and off an on Scooby-Doo fan. The latest incarnation, Scooby-Doo: Mystery Incorporated has definitely made me a fan again. Growing up, I loved Scooby-Doo. As a teenager, I remember thinking how silly it was because every episode was essentially the same thing. Looking back, I’m nostalgic for that simplicity but I welcome the continuity that Mystery Incorporated brings to this series.
If you’ve seen any of the recent Scooby-Doo movies on Cartoon Network, then you’ll be familiar with the premise of this series. Think of Scooby-Doo meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer – which is appropriate, since Buffy’s gang were often referred to as the “Scoobies” or the “Scooby Gang.” The animated Scooby Gang is now located in the town of Crystal Cove, the most haunted place on Earth. The new setting adds so much to the show. They each have parents, houses, and other everyday things that make them seem more like real characters. One of the main differences about the show is the relationships between the characters. Velma and Shaggy are dating, but Sccoby doesn’t know in the early episodes. It’s an interesting twist on the characters carried over from the TV movies.
Overall, I think these additions to the show are what make it so enjoyable. While a kid may enjoy the mystery solving and ghost hunting, parents and teens will like the continuing plot and over-arching storyline. Those are words I never thought I’d write about Scooby-Doo.
The animation style is a good bland of the classic characters with a slightly rougher edge. You can tell it’s not the original Scooby-Doo you’re watching and there’s enough style to give it a original look. Overall, it’s the most enjoyable reboot of Scooby I’ve seen – and there have been quite a few. I’ll even go out on a limb and say it’s my favorite version of Scooby-Doo. It’s like watching Justice League Unlimited after watching the original Super Friends. The ongoing story threads and developing characters make it much more entertaining show.
While the set only contains four episodes—which is something that always irks me—I will admit they’re four great episodes. If you’re looking for a great example of what I’ve talked about, watch “The Creeping Creatures” episode. Shaggy, Velma and Scooby all have great character moments and it features a few appearances/hints from Mr. E—a mysterious benefactor of the Mystery Inc. gang.
If you’re looking for a great, modern take on Scooby-Doo and don’t want anything to do with the live-action movies (a few are very good), you’ll love Scooby-Doo: Mystery Incorporated. Check out Scooby-Doo: Mystery Incorporated Volume 1 and get in on the ground floor of this great, new take on an animated icon.
