Mysticons#Cast and characters

{{Infobox television

| image = Mysticons logo.png

| caption =

| genre = {{Plainlist|

Action{{cite web |url=https://blog.toonboom.com/sailor-who-mysticons-is-a-new-kind-of-female-driven-action-cartoon |title=Sailor who? Mysticons is a new kind of female-driven action cartoon |work=Toon Boom |first=Mak |last=Philip |date=August 22, 2017 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808024709/https://blog.toonboom.com/sailor-who-mysticons-is-a-new-kind-of-female-driven-action-cartoon |archive-date=August 8, 2020 |url-status=live}}
Science fantasy{{cite web |url=https://www.nick.com/shows/mysticons-series |title=Mysticons -- Official TV Series |work=Nickeleodon |date=August 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810161738/https://www.nick.com/shows/mysticons-series |archive-date=August 10, 2020 |url-status=dead}} Describes the show as set in a "fantastical world of Gemina" with the Mysticons having to "master their new powers and work together to save their realm."
Magic{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPPerxpDFGDjzgBdQ6i-65w/about |title=Mysticons - YouTube |website=YouTube |date=2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20201113223756/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPPerxpDFGDjzgBdQ6i-65w/about |archive-date=November 13, 2020 |url-status=live}} describes the show as focused on "epic adventures" and quests to "battle dark forces and protect the realm."
Kids & Family{{cite web |url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/tv-season/mysticons-vol-1/id1265248687 |title=Mysticons, Vol. 1 |work=iTunes |date=2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20201113224014/https://itunes.apple.com/us/tv-season/mysticons-vol-1/id1265248687 |archive-date=November 13, 2020 |url-status=live}}

}}

| runtime = 21-22 minutes

| creator = Sean Jara

| developer = {{unbulleted list|Nelvana Limited|The Topps Company|Michael Eisner (uncredited)}}

| director = Matt Ferguson

| theme_music_composer = Danny Craig

| composer = Christian Szczesniak

| company = {{unbulleted list|Topps Animation | Corus Entertainment | Nelvana}}

| executive_producer = {{unbulleted list|Doug Murphy|Irene Weibel|Noel Bright|Steven A. Cohen}}

| producer = {{unbulleted list|Sean Jara|Susie Gallo}}

| voices = {{unbulleted list|Alyson Court|Ana Sani|Evany Rosen|Nicki Burke}}

| opentheme = {{unbulleted list|"Mysticons Theme Song"|by Melanie Dawn}}

| endtheme = "Mysticons Theme Song" (instrumental)

| country = {{unbulleted list|Canada|United States}}

| language = English

| network = Nickelodeon (U.S., 2017)
Nicktoons (U.S., 2018)

YTV

| first_aired = {{start date|2017|8|28}}

| last_aired = {{end date|2018|9|15}}

| num_seasons = 2

| num_episodes = 40

| list_episodes = List of Mysticons episodes

}}

Mysticons is an animated television series that aired from August 28, 2017, to September 15, 2018. A collaboration between companies Nelvana, Playmates Toys, and The Topps Company,{{cite web |last=Vlessing |first=Etan |date=April 7, 2013 |title=MIPTV: Michael Eisner to Make 'Mysticons' Cartoon With Canada's Nelvana (Exclusive) |url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/miptv-michael-eisner-make-mysticons-434535 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200718015721/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/miptv-michael-eisner-make-mysticons-434535 |archive-date=July 18, 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |work=The Hollywood Reporter}} it was created by Sean Jara, who also served as executive story editor and producer.{{cite web |url=http://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/global-tv-news-bytes-2/ |title=Global TV News Bytes |work=Animation Magazine |first=Mercedes |last=Milligan |date=April 8, 2013 |access-date=April 9, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200717093831/https://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/global-tv-news-bytes-2/|archive-date=July 17, 2020|url-status=live}}

In August 2018, Jara confirmed on Twitter that Mysticons had not been renewed for any episodes beyond its initial 40-episode production order.{{Cite tweet |user=NovaTerron|first=Sean|last=Jara|number=1032997223301140480|date=August 24, 2018|title=Sadly no. We would have loved to continue the adventure, but Nick didn't pick us up for more than 40, so our epic journey will come to an end very soon. We're proud of our show, though, and I look forward to the day when a young kid who watched this grows up and reboots it.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501023729/https://twitter.com/NovaTerron/status/1032997223301140480|archive-date=May 1, 2019|url-status=live|access-date=November 13, 2020}} The final episode, "Age of Dragons", aired on September 15, 2018, in the U.S. and September 23, 2018, in Canada.

Plot

Set in the realm of Gemina and its capital, Drake City, the series follows the adventures of Arkayna, princess of Gemina, and Emerald, Zarya, and Piper, who are chosen by the Dragon Disk to become the second generation of legendary heroes known as the Mysticons.{{Cite web|last1=Chiu-Tabet|first1=Christopher|url=http://www.multiversitycomics.com/news/mysticons-graphic-novel/|title=Dark Horse Announces "Mysticons" Graphic Novel For August 2018|website=Multivarsity Comics|language=en|date=March 2, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219181029/http://www.multiversitycomics.com/news/mysticons-graphic-novel/|archive-date=February 19, 2020|url-status=live}} They embark on a quest to find four spellbooks and animal-themed bracers of mystical power to form the Codex, which will give them the power needed to save Gemina from Dreadbane, who seeks to release Necrafa, leader of the Spectral Hand and Queen of the Undead, and turned King Darius and Queen Goodfey to stone. Once Necrafa is freed, she betrays Dreadbane and banishes him to another dimension where Imani Firewing, the original Mysticon Dragon Mage, banished her a millennium ago.

They encounter allies and adversaries{{Cite web|last1=Chiu-Tabet|first1=Christopher|url=https://www.laprensa.hn/chicos/1109208-423/mysticons-se-estrena-en-nickelodeon|title="Mysticons" se estrena en Nickelodeon|trans-title="Mysticons" premieres on Nickelodeon|website=La Prensa|language=ca|date=September 18, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180322042119/https://www.laprensa.hn/chicos/1109208-423/mysticons-se-estrena-en-nickelodeon|archive-date=March 22, 2018|url-status=live}} while learning that Arkayna has a long-lost fraternal twin sister, who is assumed to be the Astromancer Proxima Starfall. However, she is revealed to have been a scapegoat and proxy for Zarya Moonwolf, the second Mysticon Ranger and Arkanya's true twin sister. They also learn of a prophecy foretelling Gemina's destruction:

:When the twin stars unite

:The spectral beast will take flight

:Its roars will heard a new dark age

:And the realm will be

:Purged by the dragon's rage

Necrafa fuses with the Spectral Dragon, but Arkayna and Zarya obtain two rings that transform them into the "Twin Dragon," allowing them to destroy her and the Spectral Dragon, leaving half of her mask behind.

The Mysticons are called back to their heroic duties to destroy Necrafa's mask, which Proxima wears and becomes their adversary after feeling used by Zarya and betrayed by Arkayna for abandoning her for Zarya. She becomes the new leader of the Spectral Hand with help from the Astromancers, whom she places under her control as the Spectromancers, and creates the Dark Codex by corrupting the Dragon Disk. To help her get revenge on the Mysticons, she creates the Vexicons, which are similar to the Mysticons.

Realizing that the mask is controlling her, Proxima attempts to throw it into the Rift of Ruin, but it takes full control of her and prepares to destroy Gemina. With Tazma's help, the Mysticons enter her mind to find a spell that will free her from the mask's influence and Arkayna realizes that she failed to be there for Proxima when she needed her most. With Proxima free, Arkayna saves her from being killed by Mallory, who dons the mask before leaving with the Vexicons.

On the island, the Vexicons prepare for the arrival of the Spectral Hand while Proxima explains its origins, as well as those of Necrafa and Dreadbane, before undoing the spell she cast on the Astromancers. Nova Terron reveals the existence of magical lances that could enhance the power of the Mysticons' bracers and allow them to destroy the Spectral Hand forever, but that the plans to create them are in Queen Goodfey's necklace. When Dreadbane refuses to reverse the curse on Darius and Queen Goodfey, the Mysticons head to the palace to retrieve their petrified forms, but are captured by Mallory. However, Dreadbane saves her, as well as Darius and Queen Goodfey, using the last of his powers to revive them before dying.

After receiving the plans, the Mysticons create the Lance of Justice in the dwarves' forge room and Queen Goodfey accompanies them to confront the Spectral Hand, which emerges from the ancient column of ruins that had imprisoned it. Realizing that the Spectral Hand may be vulnerable to the Dragons of Light, Zarya returns with them to Dragonhenge, where King Valmuk tells them that the only way for the Dragons of Light to reach full adulthood in time is to go to the Ever Realm, where time flows faster. Upon reaching the Valley of Shooting Stars, they are caught by the Vexicons and Eartha has a change of heart and refuses to destroy the dragon eggs. Using their dragon mounts and the power of the bracers, the Mysticons destroy the Spectral Hand and free those it had imprisoned.

With Gemina at peace, life returns to normal as the Mysticons continue their duties defending the realm. Emerald and Eartha live together in Ruddix Hollow, King Darius and Queen Goodfey resume their royal duties and have the Vexicons imprisoned, Nova Terron resigns as master of the Astromancer Academy to be with his girlfriend Geraldine and gives the position to Proxima as compensation for inadvertently helping to ruin her life, presenting her with the Codex and the Dragon Disk.

Cast and characters

Alyson Court as Princess Arkayna Goodfey/Mysticon Dragon Mage{{Cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2016-10-10/halloween-comes-early-at-unplugged-expo-october-15th-16th-2016/.107468|title=Halloween Comes Early At Unplugged Expo. October 15th-16th 2016|website=Anime News Network|language=en|date=October 10, 2016|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181208050954/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2016-10-10/halloween-comes-early-at-unplugged-expo-october-15th-16th-2016/.107468|archive-date=December 8, 2018|url-status=live|quote=one of the leads in the upcoming epic fantasy series, Mysticons}}
Nicki Burke as Zarya Moonwolf/Mysticon Ranger{{Cite web|last1=Milligan|first1=Mercedes|url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/fight-like-a-girl-nickelodeon-dates-premiere-for-nelvanas-mysticons/|title=Fight Like a Girl! Nickelodeon Dates Premiere for Nelvana's 'Mysticons'|website=Torontoist|language=en|date=August 7, 2017|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190419005801/https://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/fight-like-a-girl-nickelodeon-dates-premiere-for-nelvanas-mysticons/|archive-date=April 19, 2019|url-status=live|quote=Mysticons features the voices of Alyson Court...as "Arkayna Goodfey"...Nicki Burke...as “Zarya Moonwolf"...Evany Rosen...as “Emerald Goldenbraid”...Ana Sani...as “Piper Willowbrook"}}
Ana Sani as Piper Willowbrook/Mysticon Striker
Evany Rosen as Emerald Zirconia Goldenbraid/Mysticon Knight
Amy Matysio as Mallory{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Amy-Matysio/|title=Amy Matysio|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114151847/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Amy-Matysio/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Katie Griffin as Kitty Boon{{cite tweet |last=Griffin |first=Katie |user=kissmechaos |number=1217026477717323776 |date=January 14, 2020 |title=Love the Mysticons team! (Here but not tagged- Bob,John,Suzie,Matt,Tracy & our fab voice director Stevie Vallance!) |website=Twitter |access-date=October 7, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200116161117/https://twitter.com/kissmechaos/status/1217026477717323776 |archive-date=January 16, 2020 |url-status=live}}
Joshua Graham as Kasey Boon{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Joshua-Graham/|title=Joshua Graham|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114153449/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Joshua-Graham/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
David Berni as King Gawayne{{cite tweet |last=Mack |first=Devon |user=DevenOClock |number=1043715048735031298 |date=September 23, 2018 |title=Often, it's upon you as a talent to take extra initiative to show what you can do, vs waiting for a chance that may not come. I was only called to read on Gawayne in Mysticons (played brilliantly by David Berni and his many adlibs). This turned into 2 leads and 4 recurring roles. |website=Twitter |access-date=October 7, 2024 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20201114041810/https://twitter.com/DevenOClock/status/1043715048735031298 |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |url-status=live}}
Dan Lett as Nova Terron{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Dan-Lett/|title=Dan Lett|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623163048/http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Dan-Lett|archive-date=June 23, 2018|url-status=live}}
Michelle Monteith as Tazma Grimm{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Michelle-Monteith/|title=Michelle Monteith|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114152109/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Michelle-Monteith/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Stacey DePass as Proxima Starfall{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Stacey-Depass/|title=Stacey DePass|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114152329/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Stacey-Depass/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Deven Christian Mack as Malvaron Grimm, Ferrus Goldenbraid, and General Dreadbane{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Deven-Mack/|title=Deven Mack|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114152753/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Deven-Mack/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Linda Kash as Kymraw and Queen Goodfey{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Linda-Kash/|title=Linda Kash|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114040315/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Linda-Kash/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Doug Hadders as Douglaphius "Doug" Hadderstorm{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Doug-Hadders/|title=Doug Hadders|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114153037/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Doug-Hadders/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Valerie Buhagiar as Queen Necrafa{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Valerie-Buhagiar/|title=Valerie Buhagiar|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627205142/http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Valerie-Buhagiar/|archive-date=June 27, 2018|url-status=live}}
Julie Lemieux as Serena Snakecharmer{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Julie-Lemieux/|title=Jamie Lemieux|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114153732/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Julie-Lemieux/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Athena Karkanis as Imani Firewing and Quasarla{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Athena-Karkanis/|title=Athena Karkanis|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114153909/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Athena-Karkanis/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Cory Doran as Neeko{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Cory-Doran/|title=Cory Doran|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114045621/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Cory-Doran/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Paul Soles as Barnabas Dinklelot (3 episodes){{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Paul-Soles/|title=Paul Soles|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=November 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114163334/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Paul-Soles/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Denise Oliver{{efn|Also known as Denise Shaw}} as Citrine Goldenbraid and Queen Truefin{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Denise-Oliver/|title=Denise Oliver|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190705160416/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Denise-Oliver/|archive-date=July 5, 2019|url-status=live}}
Cedric Smith as King Valmuk{{efn|Referred to as "Dragon King" in the credits}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Cedric-Smith/|title=Cedric Smith|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114045740/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Cedric-Smith/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Neil Crone as Malachite Goldenbraid{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Neil-Crone/|title=Neil Crone|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114163057/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Neil-Crone/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Robert Tinkler as Halite Goldenbraid{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Robert-Tinkler/|title=Robert Tinkler|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114045024/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Robert-Tinkler/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Talia Pearl as Princess Kelpie Truefin ("Clash of the Tridents" and "The Mask"){{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Talia-Pearl/|title=Talia Pearl|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114163511/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Talia-Pearl/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Jamie Watson as Captain Kaos ("Mutiny Most Fowl"){{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Jamie-Watson/|title=Jamie Waston|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180503083814/http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Jamie-Watson/|archive-date=May 3, 2018|url-status=live}}
Catherine Disher as Hortensia Q. Sparklebottom (3 episodes){{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Catherine-Disher/|title=Catherine Disher|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114045506/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Catherine-Disher/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Barbara Mamabolo as Vesper{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Barbara-Mamabolo/|title=Barbara Mamabolo|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114163623/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Barbara-Mamabolo/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Bahia Watson as Kasha (10 episodes){{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Bahia-Watson/|title=Bahia Watson|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114154856/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Bahia-Watson/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Alana Bridgewater as Eartha (10 episodes){{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Alana-Bridgewater/|title=Alana Bridgewater|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114161739/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Alana-Bridgewater/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Patrick McKenna as King Darius (7 episodes){{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Patrick-McKenna/|title=Patrick McKenna|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114045341/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Patrick-McKenna/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}
Stephany Seki as Willa{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Stephany-Seki/|title=Stephany Seki|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 14, 2020|access-date=October 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114161932/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Stephany-Seki/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}

Production

In June 2015, it was reported that Nelvana, a Canadian production company, was partnering with US Nickelodeon to create the series, with the latter broadcasting the show, and Nelvana beginning production later in 2015.{{Cite web|last1=Jusino|first1=Teresa|url=https://www.themarysue.com/things-we-saw-today-857/|title=Things We Saw Today: Superfit Hero Creates Exercise Wear That Empowers|website=The Mary Sue|language=en|date=June 11, 2015|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190106181514/https://www.themarysue.com/things-we-saw-today-857/|archive-date=January 6, 2019|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last1=Steinberg|first1=Brian|url=https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/2016-tv-upfront-nickelodeon-spongebob-alvinnn-1201720849/|title= Nickelodeon Unveils Four Live-Action Series, Animated Movie at Upfront|website=Variety|language=en|date=March 2, 2016|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200429012106/https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/2016-tv-upfront-nickelodeon-spongebob-alvinnn-1201720849/|archive-date=April 29, 2020|url-status=live}} At the same time, both companies were said to be working with The Topps Company, while Michael Eisner and Noel Bright of the latter are executive producers, as are Colin Bohm, Doug Murphy, and Irene Weibel of Corus Entertainment.{{Cite web|last1=Wild|first1=Diane|url=https://www.tv-eh.com/2015/06/09/mysticons-in-production-with-corus-entertainment/|title=Mysticons in production with Corus Entertainment|website=TV, eh?|language=en|date=June 9, 2015|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108115647/https://www.tv-eh.com/2015/06/09/mysticons-in-production-with-corus-entertainment/|archive-date=November 8, 2020|url-status=live}} By June 2016, the show had been picked up for 40 episodes.{{Cite web|last1=Gerard|first1=Jeremy|url=https://deadline.com/2016/03/nickelodeon-rob-gronkowski-series-upfronts-2016-1201713187/|title=Nickelodeon Adds Sports Stars Gronk, Melo And Skateboard Champ Eaton To Lineup – Upfronts|website=Deadline|language=en|date=March 2, 2016|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809001707/https://deadline.com/2016/03/nickelodeon-rob-gronkowski-series-upfronts-2016-1201713187/|archive-date=August 9, 2020|url-status=live}} Weibel, as the manager of the development slate at Nelvana, served as executive producer as a result on Mysticons and other shows produced by the studio like Mike the Knight, Disney's Lucky Duck and Hotel Transylvania.{{Cite web|last1=Szalai|first1=George|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/bobs-burgers-producer-teletubbies-creator-937163|title='Bob's Burgers' Producer Launches Kids Unit, Teams With 'Teletubbies' Co-Creator|website=The Hollywood Reporter|language=en|date=October 11, 2016|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200828231851/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/bobs-burgers-producer-teletubbies-creator-937163|archive-date=August 28, 2020|url-status=live}} In addition, Sean Jara would be the show's creator, writer, and executive story editor.{{cite interview |last=Jara |first=Sean |interviewer=Cooper |title=Sean Jara: The Frederator Interview |type=Online |url=http://frederatorstudios.com/sean-jara-the-frederator-interview/ |work=Federator Studios |date=July 30, 2018 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20201114044415/http://frederatorstudios.com/sean-jara-the-frederator-interview/ |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |url-status=live }} The show was later promoted as a "genre-defining action series" before its release.{{cite press release |author=Corus Entertainment Inc. |title=Corus Entertainment Proudly Bolsters Its Diverse 2017/18 Programming Slate With New and Returning Canadian Original Productions |url=https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/corus-entertainment-proudly-bolsters-its-diverse-201718-programming-slate-with-new-and-returning-canadian-original-productions-626500201.html |url-status=live |type=Press release |language=en |publisher=PR Web |date=June 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811032024/https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/corus-entertainment-proudly-bolsters-its-diverse-201718-programming-slate-with-new-and-returning-canadian-original-productions-626500201.html |archive-date=August 11, 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 }}

=Themes=

The show is female-centered, as opposed to "many male-centered series" for younger viewers while focusing on magic, superpowers, and the classic good vs. evil dichotomy. As such, the series has elves primarily in the form of 110-year-old protagonist Piper Willowbrook, whose elvish name is Pyperia Ashryn Elvaniski, but also in the case of Hortensia Q. Sparklebottom, and princesses like Arkana Goodfey and Zarya Moonwolf, who are both protagonists who were separated at birth. Furthermore, the series has a focus on the undead For instance, villain and undead sorceress, Queen Necrafa, is a lich,{{Cite book |last=Marsham |first=Liz |title=Mysticons: the Diamond Curse |publisher=St. Martin's Press |year=2019 |pages=3}} which is a type of undead creature. Her power is suggested to originate from the spectral hand, a reign of evil that started from a witch seeking district powers. Due to the focus on magic and fantasy, the series has been compared to the upcoming Crunchyroll Original, High Guardian Spice by some critics.{{Cite web|last1=Witiw|first1=John|url=https://www.cbr.com/high-guardian-spice-facts/|title=10 Things You Need To Know About High Guardian Spice|website=CBR|language=en|date=March 23, 2020|access-date=March 23, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200324154948/https://www.cbr.com/high-guardian-spice-facts/|archive-date=March 24, 2020|url-status=live}} The series was promoted by Nelvana as focusing on "girls’ strength, power, and courage"{{Cite web|author=AWN Staff Editor|url=https://www.awn.com/news/nelvana-launches-mysticons-digital-media|title=Nelvana Launches 'Mysticons' Digital Media|website=Animation World Network|language=en|date=July 28, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190217142302/https://www.awn.com/news/nelvana-launches-mysticons-digital-media|archive-date=February 17, 2019|url-status=live}} while other reviewers said it promotes "strong, confident, smart and funny girls."{{Cite web|last1=David|first1=Greg|url=https://www.tv-eh.com/2017/09/07/strong-girls-battle-evil-in-ytvs-animated-adventure-mysticons/|title=Strong girls battle evil in YTV's animated adventure Mysticons|website=TV, eh?|language=en|date=September 7, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200830154207/https://www.tv-eh.com/2017/09/07/strong-girls-battle-evil-in-ytvs-animated-adventure-mysticons/|archive-date=August 30, 2020|url-status=live}} One reviewer described the first graphic novel offshoot based on the series as a "contemporary urban fantasy"{{Cite web|author=CBR staff|url=https://www.cbr.com/dark-horse-comics-june-2018-solicitations/|title=Dark Horse Comics' June 2018 Solicitations|website=CBR|language=en|date=March 25, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114010825/https://www.cbr.com/dark-horse-comics-june-2018-solicitations/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}} which can also apply to the animated series.

==LGBT representation==

{{See also|LGBT children's television programming#LGBT representation on Nickelodeon}}

In October 2017, it was reported that a kiss between two female characters, Zarya Moonwolf and Kitty Boon, on the show was in danger of being cut.{{cite web|first=Dylan|last=Hysen|title=Kiss Between Two Female Characters in "Mysticons" Might be Cut|url=http://www.overlyanimated.com/2017/10/23/kiss-between-two-female-characters-in-mysticons-might-be-cut/|website=Overly Animated|access-date=November 13, 2020|date=October 23, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128170544/http://www.overlyanimated.com/2017/10/23/kiss-between-two-female-characters-in-mysticons-might-be-cut/|archive-date=January 28, 2020}} Despite this, the show showed the "development of a female-female romance," between Zarya, a protagonist, and her childhood friend, Kitty, known as "MoonBoon," culminating in romantic moments.{{cite web|first=Dylan|last=Hysen|title=10 Reasons to Drop Everything and Catch Up on "Mysticons"|url=http://www.overlyanimated.com/2017/11/01/10-reasons-to-drop-everything-and-catch-up-on-mysticons/|website=Overly Animated|access-date=November 13, 2020|date=November 1, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200221121217/http://www.overlyanimated.com/2017/11/01/10-reasons-to-drop-everything-and-catch-up-on-mysticons/|archive-date=February 21, 2020}} In August 2018, the show's creator, Sean Jara, confirmed the two as a couple, noting that only one version of the episode was created and that the show's creative team fought for a kiss, but lost even though they managed "to keep the integrity of the love story." Jara also said there is a "beautiful love story" between Zarya and Kitty in the show, referring to the interactions between the two characters in episode 37 ("The Princess and the Pirate"), stated the importance of showing "love between LGBTQ characters on TV," and said that the kiss was cut from the episode because of "systemic homophobia" in the kids' television industry, crediting Rebecca Sugar for making strides.{{cite web|author=|title="MoonBoon" confirmed by Mysticons creator Sean Jara in August 2018|url=https://twitter.com/i/events/1258865711717507072|website=Twitter|access-date=November 13, 2020|date=May 8, 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200729154134/https://twitter.com/i/events/1258865711717507072|archive-date=July 29, 2020}} This consists of the tweet stream by Sean Jara, which seemed better to use than citing every individual tweet. He opined on the continual battle for more LGBTQ representation, cited an Entertainment Weekly article about LGBTQ representation in cartoons,{{efn|Specifically an article titled "From Steven Universe to Voltron: The fight to bring LGBTQ characters to kids' shows" by Nick Romano.}} and praised the battles for more representation which go on behind the scenes. He said this saying that Nick did not pick up the show for more than 40 episodes{{cite tweet |last=Jara |first=Sean |user=NovaTerron |number=1032997223301140480 |date=August 24, 2018 |title=Sadly no. We would have loved to continue the adventure, but Nick didn't pick us up for more than 40, so our epic journey will come to an end very soon. We're proud of our show, though, and I look forward to the day when a young kid who watched this grows up and reboots it. |website=Twitter |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501023729/https://twitter.com/NovaTerron/status/1032997223301140480 |archive-date=May 1, 2019 |url-status=live}} and, once again, confirmed Kitty and Zarya as a lesbian couple.{{cite tweet |last=Jara |first=Sean |user=NovaTerron |number=1039857276553555968 |date=September 11, 2018 |title=Yes |website=Twitter |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200824134218/https://twitter.com/NovaTerron/status/1039857276553555968 |archive-date=August 24, 2020 |url-status=live}} In September, Jara said that they treated the relationship between Kitty and Zarya "like all the other relationships in the show." He added that while he was nervous and aware of possible roadblocks, Matt Ferguson, the show's director, supported it, as did his writing team. Ferguson argued that pushback came from not from people who were "evil" but rather from those who were "trying to do the best job at their particular job."{{cite web|first=Beatriz|last=Mourad|title=Sean Jara & Matt Ferguson Interview – Mysticons|url=http://www.overlyanimated.com/2018/09/26/sean-jara-matt-ferguson-interview-mysticons/|website=Overly Animated|access-date=November 13, 2020|date=September 26, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200122155239/http://www.overlyanimated.com/2018/09/26/sean-jara-matt-ferguson-interview-mysticons/|archive-date=January 22, 2020}}

In June 2021, Abbey White of Insider reported that when the show's studio changed the series to center on four teenage girls, Jara brought in more women and queer writers to the show's writing team, who were "responsible for building out an arc between lesbian characters Zarya Moonwolf and Kitty Boon," which fans gave the shipping name of "MoonBoon." Jara recalled that he sent in the script for a kiss of the two character to the show's studios, and Nickelodeon, and fellow producers working on the show. But, the moment never aired, despite support from Nickelodeon, because a partner was concerned that the storyline was not "age-appropriate" for young viewers. As a result, despite Jara's attempts to convince the partner, the creative team had to scrap the kiss, and almost had to unravel the whole love story between Zarya and Kitty, but Jara fought for its inclusion. In the article, Nelvana confirmed that the decision to remove the kiss was made during production of the show's Season Two, and said that they were committed to having "creative storytelling with diversity and inclusion at the forefront" when it comes to BIPOC and LGBTQ representation."{{cite web|last=White|first=Abbey|url=https://www.insider.com/why-tv-lacks-lgbtq-inclusion-according-to-experts-2021-6|title=TV animators were forced to scrap LGBTQ-inclusive storylines due to a culture of fear. Experts say fans are changing that.|website=Insider|date=June 15, 2021|access-date=June 16, 2021|archive-url=https://archive.today/20210616194517/https://www.insider.com/why-tv-lacks-lgbtq-inclusion-according-to-experts-2021-6|archive-date=June 16, 2021|url-status=live}}

=Staff and cast=

From 2014 to 2017, Stevie Vallance was based in Toronto as the Voice Director of the series.{{cite tweet |last=Court |first=Alyson |user=alysontheother |number=801266854203445248 |date=November 23, 2016 |title=Love the Mysticons team! (Here but not tagged- Bob, John, Suzie, Matt, Tracy & our fab voice director Stevie Vallance!) |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170204044942if_/https://twitter.com/alysontheother/status/801266854203445248 |archive-date=February 4, 2017 |url-status=live}} The principal voice cast includes Alyson Court as Arkayna Goodfey,{{efn|She also voices minor supporting characters like the unnamed Elven Daughter and Binky, along with the magical sinister object known as "The Mask."}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2016-10-10/halloween-comes-early-at-unplugged-expo-october-15th-16th-2016/.107468|title=Halloween Comes Early At Unplugged Expo. October 15th-16th 2016|website=Anime News Network|language=en|date=October 10, 2016|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181208050954/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2016-10-10/halloween-comes-early-at-unplugged-expo-october-15th-16th-2016/.107468|archive-date=December 8, 2018|url-status=live}} Evany Rosen as Emerald Goldenbraid,{{cite tweet |last=Rosen |first=Evany |user=evanyrosen |number=1005829754908479488 |date=June 10, 2018 |title=Well this is very nice! @MysticonsTV |website=Twitter |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114025100/https://twitter.com/evanyrosen/status/1005829754908479488 |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |url-status=live}} She is replying to this tweet where she is [https://archive.today/20201114025306/https://twitter.com/BTVA/status/1005247288120430594 nominated for the "Best Female Lead Vocal Performance in a Television Series"] position. Nicki Burke as Zarya Moonwolf,{{Cite web|last1=Milligan|first1=Mercedes|url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/fight-like-a-girl-nickelodeon-dates-premiere-for-nelvanas-mysticons/|title=Fight Like a Girl! Nickelodeon Dates Premiere for Nelvana's 'Mysticons'|website=Torontoist|language=en|date=August 7, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190419005801/https://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/fight-like-a-girl-nickelodeon-dates-premiere-for-nelvanas-mysticons/|archive-date=April 19, 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite tweet |last=Burke |first=Nicki |user=BurkeNicki |number=906930495489011714 |date=September 10, 2017 |title=Thanks! Can't wait to watch it |website=Twitter |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20201114041240/https://twitter.com/BurkeNicki/status/906950235527708672 |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |url-status=live}} and Ana Sani as Piper Willowbrook.{{cite press release |last1=Balach |first1=Katelyn |title=Nickelodeon Ventures Into the Monsterverse in Original Animated Series Ollie's Pack, Premiering Monday, April 6 at 4:00 P.M. (ET/PT) |url=https://apnews.com/press-release/pr-businesswire/65c0b038248e4ff3b630613b84e21913 |url-status=live |type=Press release |language=en |agency=Nickelodeon |publisher=Associated Press |date=March 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114040737/https://apnews.com/press-release/pr-businesswire/65c0b038248e4ff3b630613b84e21913 |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 }}{{cite tweet |last=Sani |first=Ana |user=anasani14 |number=967125719695245312 |date=February 23, 2018 |title=The #mysticons were in The Zone today!! Keep your 👀 out for us in March! @ytv |website=Twitter |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114041537/https://twitter.com/anasani14/status/967125719695245312 |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |url-status=live}} In terms of recurring characters, David Berni was Gawayne the Great,{{cite tweet |last=Mack |first=Devon |user=DevenOClock |number=1043715048735031298 |date=September 23, 2018 |title=Often, it's upon you as a talent to take extra initiative to show what you can do, vs waiting for a chance that may not come. I was only called to read on Gawayne in Mysticons (played brilliantly by David Berni and his many adlibs). This turned into 2 leads and 4 recurring roles. |website=Twitter |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20201114041810/https://twitter.com/DevenOClock/status/1043715048735031298 |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |url-status=live}} Katie Griffin was Kitty Boon,{{Cite web|url=https://www.eastcoastcomicon.com/guest/griffin-2/|title=Kate Griffin|website=East Coast Comic Con|language=en|date=2019|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://archive.today/20201114040139/https://www.eastcoastcomicon.com/guest/griffin-2/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite tweet |last=Griffin |first=Katie |user=kissmechaos |number=1217026477717323776 |date=January 14, 2020 |title=Love the Mysticons team! (Here but not tagged- Bob, John, Suzie, Matt, Tracy & our fab voice director Stevie Vallance!) |website=Twitter |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200116161117/https://twitter.com/kissmechaos/status/1217026477717323776 |archive-date=January 16, 2020 |url-status=live}} Linda Kash was Queen Goodfey and Kymraw,{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Linda-Kash/|title=Linda Kash|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114040315/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Linda-Kash/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}} and Dan Lett was Nova Terron.{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Dan-Lett/|title=Dan Lett|website=Behind the Voice Actors|language=en|date=November 13, 2020|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623163048/http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Dan-Lett|archive-date=June 23, 2018|url-status=live}}

In March 2018, the show was nominated for various awards at the 6th Canadian Screen Awards. This included one for Matt Ferguson, who directed the episode "Scourge of the Seven Skies" and another for Sean Jara, who wrote the episode "Sisters in Arms."{{Cite web|last1=Maclean|first1=Thomas J.|url=https://www.awn.com/news/canadian-screen-awards-nominees-film-and-tv-set|title=Canadian Screen Awards Nominees in Film and TV Set|website=Animation World Network|language=en|date=January 26, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920111739/https://www.awn.com/news/canadian-screen-awards-nominees-film-and-tv-set|archive-date=September 20, 2020|url-status=live}} While Ferguson did not get an award, Jara won an award for his writing on the aforementioned episode.{{Cite web|last1=Heibron|first1=Alexandra|url=https://www.tribute.ca/news/2018-canadian-screen-awards-second-night-winners/2018/03/08/|title=2018 Canadian Screen Awards – second night winners!|website=tribute.ca|language=en|date=March 8, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200610010341/https://www.tribute.ca/news/2018-canadian-screen-awards-second-night-winners/2018/03/08/|archive-date=June 10, 2020|url-status=live}} The following year, another episode Jara wrote, "The Princess and the Pirate," was nominated for an award as the 7th Canadian Screen Awards.{{Cite web|editor=AWN Staff|url=https://www.awn.com/news/animal-behaviour-leads-animation-nominees-canadian-screen-awards|title='Animal Behaviour' Leads Animation Nominees for Canadian Screen Awards|website=Animation World Network|language=en|date=February 8, 2019|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428045823/https://www.awn.com/news/animal-behaviour-leads-animation-nominees-canadian-screen-awards|archive-date=April 28, 2019|url-status=live}} The same year, Ana Sani was nominated for the "Outstanding Performance – Female Voice" ACTRA Award for her role in the episode "The Edge of Two Morrows."{{Cite web|last1=Mahjouri|first1=Shakiel|url=https://etcanada.com/news/407443/actra-awards-2019-nominees-revealed-female-nominees-stand-strong/|title=2019 ACTRA Awards Nominees Revealed, Changes Made To Categories At A Time When 'Women's Voices Are Fighting To Be Heard'|website=ET Canada|language=en|date=January 15, 2019|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107230112/https://etcanada.com/news/407443/actra-awards-2019-nominees-revealed-female-nominees-stand-strong/|archive-date=November 7, 2020|url-status=dead}}{{cite magazine |title=Nominees for Outstanding Performance – Female Voice |url=https://www.actratoronto.com/magazine/2019/performersonset/spring/files/assets/common/downloads/publication.pdf |url-status=live |magazine=Performers |publisher=Actra Toronto |volume=28 |issue=1 |page=12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114042625/https://www.actratoronto.com/magazine/2019/performersonset/spring/files/assets/common/downloads/publication.pdf |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |date=Spring 2019 }} Also that year, Elize Morgan, a writer who worked on Mysticons, would be a juror for the Toronto Animation Arts Festival International.{{Cite web|last1=Wolfe|first1=Jennifer|url=https://www.awn.com/news/hilda-wins-best-kids-short-grand-prix-awards-taafi-2019|title='Hilda' Wins Best Kids Short, Grand Prix Awards at TAAFI 2019|website=Animation World Network|language=en|date=January 15, 2019|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306071551/https://www.awn.com/news/hilda-wins-best-kids-short-grand-prix-awards-taafi-2019|archive-date=March 6, 2019|url-status=live}} Apart from Morgan, Jocelyn Geddie, Steph Kaliner, and Corey Liu were writers on the show.{{Cite web|last1=Fisher|first1=Steve|url=https://torontoist.com/2016/06/local-ladies-who-make-us-laugh-in-2016/|title=Local Ladies Who Make Us Laugh in 2016|website=Torontoist|language=en|date=June 23, 2016|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200619110622/https://torontoist.com/2016/06/local-ladies-who-make-us-laugh-in-2016/|archive-date=June 19, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite magazine |title=First Class |url=https://cmpa.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CMPA-Indiescreen_Winter2019-1.pdf |url-status=live |magazine=Indiescreen |publisher=Canada Media Producers Association |page=23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114043013/https://cmpa.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CMPA-Indiescreen_Winter2019-1.pdf |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |date=Winter 2019 }}

=Character design=

Some stated that some characters may be inspired by past animations, like She-Ra: Princess of Power, with Dreadbane looking like Hordak and Choko looking like Kowl.{{Cite web|last1=Zahn|first1=James|url=https://www.therockfather.com/news-and-reviews/movie-and-tv/item/5476-sneak-preview-prepare-for-the-arrival-of-the-mysticons|title=Sneak-Preview: Prepare for the Arrival of the MYSTICONS!|website=The Rockfeather|language=en|date=August 28, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190415101153/https://www.therockfather.com/news-and-reviews/movie-and-tv/item/5476-sneak-preview-prepare-for-the-arrival-of-the-mysticons|archive-date=April 15, 2019|url-status=live}} Others stated that the series tapped into the "magical girl revival."{{Cite web|last1=Foxe|first1=Steve|url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/comics/mysticons/unlock-your-magical-girl-potential-in-this-exclusi/|title=Unlock Your Magical Girl Potential in This Exclusive Mysticons Vol. 1 Preview|website=Paste|language=en|date=August 7, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114003647/https://www.pastemagazine.com/comics/mysticons/unlock-your-magical-girl-potential-in-this-exclusi/|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}

=Music=

In March 2018 the show was nominated for three awards at the 6th Canadian Screen Awards. One of these was for Christian Szczesniak's music in the episode "The Coronation." In November of the 2018 it was reported that singer Dulce Lopez sang the Spanish language version of the Mysticons theme song.{{Cite web|last1=Esquivel|first1=Sugey Tapia|url=https://www.yucatan.com.mx/espectaculos/dulce-lopez-emocionada-de-regresar-a-los-escenarios-musicales|title=Dulce López emocionada de regresar a los escenarios musicales|trans-title=Dulce López excited to return to the musical stages|website=El Diario de Yucatán|language=en|date=November 20, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181121185208/https://www.yucatan.com.mx/espectaculos/dulce-lopez-emocionada-de-regresar-a-los-escenarios-musicales|archive-date=November 21, 2018|url-status=live}} In January 2020, the Canadian pop supergroup Girl Pow-R was handpicked to re-create, and sing, the show's theme song.{{cite press release |last1=Van Dam |first1=Dawn |title=Teen Pop Supergroup Girl Pow-R Say "This Is Us" in New Music Video and Debut Album |url=https://www.prweb.com/releases/teen-pop-supergroup-girl-pow-r-say-this-is-us-in-new-music-video-and-debut-album-886527597.html |url-status=live |type=Press release |language=en |publisher=PR Web |date=January 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815164624/http://www.prweb.com/releases/teen_pop_supergroup_girl_pow_r_say_this_is_us_in_new_music_video_and_debut_album/prweb16586317.htm |archive-date=August 15, 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 }}{{cite press release |author=Girl Pow-R |title=Canadian Pop Supergroup Girl Pow-R Dazzle in Inspiring New Video "Never Let Go" |url=https://www.prweb.com/releases/canadian-pop-supergroup-girl-pow-r-dazzle-in-inspiring-new-video-never-let-go--862649069.html |url-status=live |type=Press release |language=en |publisher=PR Web |date=January 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200120020312/http://www.prweb.com/releases/canadian_pop_supergroup_girl_pow_r_dazzle_in_inspiring_new_video_never_let_go/prweb16236967.htm |archive-date=January 20, 2020 |access-date=November 13, 2020 }}

Episodes

Promotion and release

Mysticons was originally aimed at boys{{cite web |url=http://animatedviews.com/2013/michael-eisner-plays-with-mysticons/ |title=Michael Eisner plays with Mysticons |work=Animated Views |date=April 8, 2013 |access-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200717103513/https://animatedviews.com/2013/michael-eisner-plays-with-mysticons/ |archive-date=July 17, 2020 |url-status=live}} but switched its focus to girls aged 6 to 11 during the development process.{{cite web|url=http://kidscreen.com/2015/06/10/nickelodeon-picks-up-nelvanas-mysticons/|title=Nickelodeon boards Nelvana's new girls action series|work=Kidscreen|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200925224030/https://kidscreen.com/2015/06/10/nickelodeon-picks-up-nelvanas-mysticons/|archive-date=September 25, 2020|url-status=live|access-date=November 13, 2020}}{{cite magazine|issue=October/November 2015|page=12|title=Mysticons to battle Winx in girls fantasy-action battle|url=http://media2.telecoms.com/e-books/TBI/magazines/kidsoctnov15/|author=|magazine=TBI Kids|location=England|publisher=Informa Telecoms & Media|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161114171049/http://media2.telecoms.com/e-books/TBI/magazines/kidsoctnov15/|archive-date=November 14, 2016|access-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}} Nelvana's Andrew Kerr explained in 2016 that the show's developers agreed that "at this moment in time the project would be better served if we had female protagonists."

On June 16, 2018, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment and Elevation Pictures released the first DVD volume in Canada containing episodes 1–6 on June 19, 2018, under the name "New Heroes Rise."{{Cite tweet |user=UniPicturesCAN|author=UniversalPicturesCAN|number=1008786705426591749|date=June 18, 2018|title=The Number One TV Series on YTV at the Moment: Mysticons Volume 1: New Heroes Rise is available on DVD tomorrow!|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113215110/https://twitter.com/UniPicturesCAN/status/1008786705426591749|archive-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live}} In August of that year, Lisa Godfrey, Vice-President of original content of Corus, used the show as an example, noting that not only do they make money "from a U.S. broadcast deal with Nickelodeon," merchandising sales, partnerships with companies like Burger King and other money from owning the intellectual property related to the series, saying this model is profitable.{{Cite web|last1=Robertson|first1=Sarah Krashinsky|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-why-canadas-reputation-as-a-kids-tv-production-powerhouse-is-under/|title=Why Canada's reputation as a kids' TV production powerhouse is under threat|website=The Globe and Mail|language=en|date=August 24, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923173421/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-why-canadas-reputation-as-a-kids-tv-production-powerhouse-is-under/|archive-date=September 23, 2020|url-status=live}}

Telecast

In mid-August 2017, Nickelodeon unveiled the series with a trailer and "character featurettes."{{Cite web|last1=Trumbore|first1=Dave|url=https://collider.com/justice-league-new-frontier-bluray/|title=This Week in Animation: 'Justice League: The New Frontier' Blu-ray; 'Marvel's Spider-Man' Debuts|website=Collider|language=en|date=August 19, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200104030810/https://collider.com/justice-league-new-frontier-bluray/|archive-date=January 4, 2020|url-status=live}} Then, on the week starting August 28, 2017, Mysticons premiered on Nickelodeon, in the U.S., through a five-day event over the week, before moving to its regular Sunday morning timeslot. Mysticons then began airing on Nicktoons on August 30.{{cite web|url=http://www.toonzone.net/nickelodeon-nelvanas-cg-fantasy-series-mysticons-premieres-august-28-2017/|title=Nickelodeon and Nelvana's CG-Animated Fantasy Series Mysticons, Premieres Monday, August 28, at 4 p.m. (ET/PT)|date=August 7, 2017|access-date=August 7, 2017|work=Toonzone|first=Ed|last=Liu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917071433/https://www.toonzone.net/nickelodeon-nelvanas-cg-fantasy-series-mysticons-premieres-august-28-2017/|archive-date=September 17, 2018|url-status=dead}} [https://animesuperhero.com/nickelodeon-nelvanas-cg-fantasy-series-mysticons-premieres-august-28-2017/ ALT URL] Premieres moved to that network with the show's second airing season on January 13, 2018.{{cite web|url=http://nickalive.blogspot.com/2017/12/nickelodeon-usas-january-2018-premiere.html#nicktoons|title=Nickelodeon USA's January 2018 Premiere Highlights--All New All Nick *Latest Update: 1/24*|work=NickALive!|date=January 24, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200131002717/http://nickalive.blogspot.com/2017/12/nickelodeon-usas-january-2018-premiere.html|archive-date=January 31, 2020|url-status=live}} Reruns also aired on the Nick Jr. Channel and TeenNick.{{cite web|url=http://www.toonbarn.com/other-cartoons/mysticons-season-2-moves-nicktoons/|title=Mysticons season 2 moves to Nicktoons|work=ToonBarn|date=January 2, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109030924/http://toonbarn.com/other-cartoons/mysticons-season-2-moves-nicktoons/|archive-date=November 9, 2020|url-status=live}} During the show's entire run, it was broadcast by Nickelodeon in the U.S., on Nicktoons in Central and Eastern Europe, and on Nick Jr. It also airs on CITV, the children's television strand of ITV in the United Kingdom, by Nickelodeon in Canada, Nicktoons in Germany{{Broken anchor|date=2025-06-13|bot=User:Cewbot/log/20201008/configuration|target_link=Nicktoons (German TV channel)#Former programming on Nicktoons Germany|reason= The anchor (Former programming on Nicktoons Germany) has been deleted.|diff_id=1130992043}}, and Nickelodeon in Spain and Portugal, and on Nicktoons in Poland from 2018 to Present.

In Canada, the series premiered on YTV through a similar five-day event on August 28, 2017 before moving to its Sunday timeslot on September 3, 2017, replacing the series Nerds and Monsters on The Zone programming block.{{Citation needed|date=February 2023}} Repeats began airing on Nickelodeon and Teletoon on September 9. In the French-language Canada, a five-day preview aired on Télétoon between September 4 and 8, before moving to its regular slot on September 9.{{cite web|url=http://www.toonbarn.com/other-cartoons/mysticons-debuts-august-28th/|title=Mysticons debuts August 28th|date=August 7, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|work=ToonBarn|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190720221012/http://www.toonbarn.com/other-cartoons/mysticons-debuts-august-28th/|archive-date=July 20, 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://imissbionix.wordpress.com/2017/08/21/curtain-call-for-yo-kai-watch-on-canadian-tv/|title=Curtain call for Yo-Kai Watch on Canadian TV?|date=August 21, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831050000/https://imissbionix.wordpress.com/2017/08/21/curtain-call-for-yo-kai-watch-on-canadian-tv/|archive-date=August 31, 2017|url-status=live}} In October 2017, the show returned to Nickelodeon in the United States.{{cite tweet |last=Ferguson |first=Matt |user=Matt_The_Ferg |number=915707442998083584 |date=October 4, 2017 |title=Hey American #Mysticons fandom -- just got word that we will be back on Nickelodeon this coming Sunday. Will send more info when I get it. |website=Twitter |access-date=November 14, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114050539/https://twitter.com/Matt_The_Ferg/status/915707442998083584 |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |url-status=live}}

Printed media and merchandise

Prior to the show's debut, Nelvana launched a YouTube channel for Mysticons on July 19, 2017.{{cite web|url=http://kidscreen.com/2017/07/20/nelvana-brings-mysticons-into-the-digital-realm/|title=Nelvana brings Mysticons into the digital realm|first=Elizabeth|last=Foster|date=July 20, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|work=Kidscreen|publisher=Brunico Communications|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201019062535/https://kidscreen.com/2017/07/20/nelvana-brings-mysticons-into-the-digital-realm/|archive-date=October 19, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://kidscreen.com/2019/07/24/nelvana-launches-mandarin-youtube-content/|title=Nelvana launches Mandarin YouTube content|first=Elizabeth|last=Foster|date=July 24, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|work=Kidscreen|publisher=Brunico Communications|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028120722/https://kidscreen.com/2019/07/24/nelvana-launches-mandarin-youtube-content/|archive-date=October 28, 2020|url-status=live}} The web content was produced by Blue Ant Media.{{cite web|url=http://blueantmedia.ca/2017/09/blue-ant-plus-teams-up-with-nelvana-to-create-engaging-online-content-for-ytvs-new-animated-kids-series-mysticons|title=Blue Ant Plus Teams Up With Nelvana To Create Engaging Online Content For YTV's New Animated Kids Series, Mysticons|date=September 13, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|work=Blue Ant Media|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620153039/http://blueantmedia.com/2017/09/blue-ant-plus-teams-up-with-nelvana-to-create-engaging-online-content-for-ytvs-new-animated-kids-series-mysticons/|archive-date=June 20, 2018|url-status=live}}

Since the animated show aired on Nickelodeon, on August 28, 2017, an ever-expanding series of graphic novels/comic books have been released once or twice a year. Unlike other popular shows and graphic novels (W.I.T.C.H., Avatar: The Last Airbender, Avatar: The Legend of Korra) none have any titles but is merely seen as the volume number. Volume 1 was released at that time, followed by Volume 2 was on May 21, 2019, and Volume 3 in late 2019, with each depicting original adventures that never occurred in the animated series. Then, in October 2017, Nelvana launched the "Piper Parkour" browser game and the free-to-play iOS and Android Mysticons: Secrets of Gemina mobile game. In December 2017, a second browser game, "Arkayna Attack" was launched, followed by "Em's Mayhem" in February 2018 and "Cover of Night" in March 2018. All five were developed by Relish Interactive. Later in 2017, Playmates Toys released a Mysticons toyline.{{cite web|url=http://www.licensemag.com/license-global/playmates-unveils-mysticons-action-figures|title=Playmates Unveils 'Mysticons' Action Figures|access-date=November 13, 2020|date=November 9, 2017|work=License Global|publisher=UBM plc|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917143526/https://www.licenseglobal.com/entertainment/playmates-unveils-mysticons-action-figures|archive-date=September 17, 2018|url-status=live}}{{cite press release |date=November 8, 2017 |title=Playmates Toys Introduces Its First Action Figure Collection for Girls, Based on Animated Series Mysticons, Featuring Legendary Girl Warriors |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/playmates-toys-introduces-its-first-action-figure-collection-for-girls-based-on-top-rated-animated-series-featuring-legendary-girl-warriors-mysticons-300551428.html |url-status=live |type=Press release |language=en |publisher=PR Newswire |agency=Playmates Toys |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171108203224/https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/playmates-toys-introduces-its-first-action-figure-collection-for-girls-based-on-top-rated-animated-series-featuring-legendary-girl-warriors-mysticons-300551428.html |archive-date=November 8, 2017 |access-date=November 13, 2020 }} The Topps Company published a trading card game concurrently.{{Cite tweet |user=DarthVonOhlen|author=Mark V In The City|number=916764109969993729 |date = October 7, 2017 |title=Get a sneak peek at Mysticons trading cards, get a free poster & see the Playmates action figures at Topps Booth 454 today! #NYCC #MagicHour|archive-url=https://archive.today/20201113222009/https://twitter.com/DarthVonOhlen/status/916764109969993729|archive-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live|access-date=November 13, 2020}} A Burger King kids meal promotion ran in the United States and Canada in February and March 2018.{{cite web|url=http://kidscreen.com/2018/01/29/nelvana-burger-king-bite-into-mysticons-promotion/|title=Nelvana, Burger King bite into Mysticons promotion|first=Elizabeth|last=Foster|date=January 29, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|work=Kidscreen|publisher=Brunico Communications|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201104100509/https://kidscreen.com/2018/01/29/nelvana-burger-king-bite-into-mysticons-promotion/|archive-date=November 4, 2020|url-status=live}}

Macmillan Publishers launched a Mysticons novel series on June 19, 2018, with the first two titles being the show adaptation Quest for the Codex and the original adventure tale The Secret of the Fifth Mysticon.{{cite web|url=http://kidscreen.com/2017/09/28/nelvanas-mysticons-inks-publishing-deal/|title=Nelvana's Mysticons inks publishing deal|date=September 28, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|first=Alexandra|last=Whyte|work=Kidscreen|publisher=Brunico Communications|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200314082814/http://kidscreen.com/2017/09/28/nelvanas-mysticons-inks-publishing-deal/|archive-date=March 14, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250165060|title=Mysticons: Quest of the Codex|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113215537/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250165060|archive-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250164995|title=Mysticons: The Secret of the Fifth Mysticon|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113215740/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250164995|archive-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live}} The second set, the novelization Prophecy of Evil and the original story The Stolen Magic were released on August 28, 2018.{{cite web|url=https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250165121|title=Mysticons: Prophecy of Evil|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113220902/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250165121|archive-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250165039|title=Mysticons: The Stolen Magic|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113220950/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250165039|archive-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live}} A third original novel, titled The Diamond Curse was released on January 8, 2019.{{cite web|url=https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250195586|title=Mysticons: The Diamond Curse|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620051036/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250195586|archive-date=June 20, 2018|url-status=live}} Alongside the text versions, Macmillan also released audiobooks of their original stories narrated by members of the show's voice cast.{{cite web|url=https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250310880|title=Mysticons: The Stolen Magic|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://archive.today/20201114052516/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250310880|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250310859|title=Mysticons: The Secret of the Fifth Mysticon|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114052700/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250310859|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.recordedbooks.com/title-details/9781250310880|title=Mysticons: The Stolen Magic|work=Macmillan Publishers|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://archive.today/20201114052939/https://www.recordedbooks.com/title-details/9781250310880|archive-date=November 14, 2020|url-status=live}}

On August 15, 2018, Dark Horse Comics launched an ongoing series of graphic novels by Kate Leth and Megan Levens. Later, a miniseries of four chapter books, featuring one of the second generation of the four Mysticons as the central character was released. Emerald's tale is set sometime in the first season; whereas Arkayna and Zarya's are set in the second and final season, as both mention of them being long-lost fraternal twin sisters. Three books out four were released: The Secret of the Fifth Mysticon (featuring Emerald "Em", the second Mysticon Knight), The Stolen Magic (featuring Zarya, the second Mysticon Ranger), and The Diamond Curse (featuring Arkayna, the second Mysticon Dragon Mage).{{Cite web|last1=Johnston|first1=Rich|title=Dark Horse Comics Full December 2018 Solicitations – Laguardia #1 by Nnedi Okorafor and Tana Ford|url=https://bleedingcool.com/comics/dark-horse-comics-full-december-2018-solicitations-laguardia-nnedi-okorafor-tana-ford/|website=Bleeding Cool|language=en|date=September 19, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810121523/https://bleedingcool.com/comics/dark-horse-comics-full-december-2018-solicitations-laguardia-nnedi-okorafor-tana-ford/|archive-date=August 10, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.corusent.com/news/nelvana-dark-horse-comics-partner-new-action-series-mysticons/|title=Nelvana and dark horse comics partner on new action series mysticons|date=May 18, 2017|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171106190220/http://www.corusent.com/news/nelvana-dark-horse-comics-partner-new-action-series-mysticons/|archive-date=November 6, 2017|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.darkhorse.com/Books/3001-500/Mysticons-Volume-1-TPB|title=Mysticons Volume 1 TPB|work=Dark Horse Comics|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629001859/https://www.darkhorse.com/Books/3001-500/Mysticons-Volume-1-TPB|archive-date=June 29, 2020|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last1=Cornelius|first1=Luke|url=http://www.multiversitycomics.com/news/spell-on-wheels-sequel/|title=Dark Horse Comics Announce "Spell on Wheels: Just To Get To You"|website=Multiversity Comics|language=en|date=July 2, 2019|access-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191231091242/http://www.multiversitycomics.com/news/spell-on-wheels-sequel/|archive-date=December 31, 2019|url-status=live}}

Reception

Melissa Camacho of Common Sense Media praised the series as fun, but warned parents that there is "lots of fantasy violence" and some "dark images" which might "scare younger kids," but that it contains "magical creature companions," trainer, and dark forces that young fans of anime are drawn toward.{{Cite web|last=Camacho|first=Melissa|date=September 27, 2020|title=Mysticons [Review]|url=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/mysticons|access-date=November 13, 2020|website=Common Sense Media|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113212928/https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/mysticons|archive-date=November 13, 2020|url-status=live}} She also stated that the series is not educational, but offers an "entertaining alternative to the many male-centered series" produced for those of this age group. In contrast, The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction contributor Steven Pearce gave a positive review, stating that the three story arcs of the series centers on a different villain, and stated that even though the series is set in a futuristic city, "noir tendencies of urban fantasy are avoided" with cultural influence of Earth still present, even as there are sci-fi elements. Pearce also pointed out that the show is "more action-orientated" than most shows which target young girls, stated that while the animation budget wasn't big, it was "used imaginatively" and says that while the story is fast-moving, it gains strength as it moved along, resulting in a "fun, exciting series."{{cite web |last=Pearce |first=Steven |title=Mysticons |url=http://sf-encyclopedia.com/entry/mysticons |magazine=The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction |access-date=November 14, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922001304/http://sf-encyclopedia.com/entry/mysticons |archive-date=September 22, 2020 |date=July 27, 2020 |url-status=live}}

Notes

References

External links

[https://www.mysticons.com Official website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180811195913/https://www.mysticons.com/ |date=2018-08-11 }}
[http://www.nick.com/mysticons-series/ Nickelodeon website]
{{IMDb title|7252220}}

Category:2010s American animated television series

Category:2010s American children's television series

Category:2010s American LGBTQ-related animated television series

Category:2010s American science fiction television series

Category:2010s Canadian animated television series

Category:2010s Canadian children's television series

Category:2010s Canadian science fiction television series

Category:2017 American animated television series debuts

Category:2018 American television series endings

Category:2017 Canadian television series debuts

Category:2018 Canadian television series endings

Category:American anime-influenced animated television series