From Collider · Victoria Luxford · · 2m
Netflix's Bass X Machina: Steampunk Western Epic Review
Brian Tyree Henry leads Netflix's steampunk Western series Bass X Machina, blending historical trauma with sci-fi action.
In brief
Brian Tyree Henry leads Netflix's steampunk Western series Bass X Machina, blending historical trauma with sci-fi action. Netflix's animated series Bass X Machina, created by LeSean Thomas, follows Oscar-nominated actor Brian Tyree Henry as a bounty hunter in a steampunk Western setting inspired by real-life Bass…
Quick answers
- What Is Bass X Machina?
- Bass X Machina is a steampunk Western series set in an alternate Old West where the Civil War's aftermath intersects with advanced technology.
- What is the key takeaway from Netflix's Bass X Machina: Steampunk Western Epic Review?
- Netflix's animated series Bass X Machina, created by LeSean Thomas, follows Oscar-nominated actor Brian Tyree Henry as a bounty hunter in a steampunk Western setting inspired by real-life Bass Reeves.
What Is Bass X Machina?
Bass X Machina is a steampunk Western series set in an alternate Old West where the Civil War's aftermath intersects with advanced technology.
“Bass Reeves (Henry) is a bounty hunter with a cybernetic arm, haunted by the loss of his first wife and child in the war while doing his best to provide for his new family.”
Bass Reeves' Story
Bass Reeves, inspired by real-life Black Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves, hunts a missing scientist linked to dangerous technological experiments.
“Bass X Machina was created by LeSean Thomas, best known for his work on the animated classic The Boondocks, as well as Nickelodeon’s The Legend of Korra.”
The Real Bass Reeves
Bass Reeves, a real-life figure who became one of the first Black Deputy U.S. Marshals in the late 19th century, inspired the show's protagonist.
“Bass Reeves (Henry) is a bounty hunter with a cybernetic arm, haunted by the loss of his first wife and child in the war while doing his best to provide for his new family.”
Bass X Machina's Creator
LeSean Thomas, creator of Bass X Machina, previously worked on The Boondocks and Nickelodeon’s The Legend of Korra.
“Bass X Machina was created by LeSean Thomas, best known for his work on the animated classic The Boondocks, as well as Nickelodeon’s The Legend of Korra.”
Production Studio
Studio Mir, the Korean studio behind Marvel's X-Men '97, produces Bass X Machina.
“It is produced by Studio Mir, the Korean studio behind the recent Marvel hit X-Men '97.”
Bass X Machina's Themes
The series blends Western themes with sci-fi elements to explore revenge, identity, and survival in a divided society.
“The scars of war, the tensions of a divided nation, and the struggle to do the right thing in a world filled with corruption are all at the heart of each episode.”
Bass's Character
Bass Reeves, voiced by Oscar-nominated actor Brian Tyree Henry, is a bounty hunter with a cybernetic arm who fights to protect his family.
“Bass (Brian Tyree Henry) staring down someone with his mechanical arm bared in Bass X Machina”
Dana's Role
Dana, a young engineer and the scientist's niece, partners with Bass to uncover a plot linked to his past.
“After reluctantly teaming up with Dana (Tati Gabrielle), a young engineer and the scientist's niece, Bass's investigation uncovers a plot with links to his past.”
The Action
Bass X Machina features intricate action sequences with steampunk technology, including robot bartenders and motorized scooters.
“Little touches, such as robot bartenders or Dana’s notepad, suggest a society on the verge of a technological leap beyond our present capabilities.”
Voice Cast
The show features a strong voice cast including Janelle Monae as Bass's wife Glory and Chaske Spencer as Lighthorse, a Native American sheriff.
“Some excellent vocal performances amplify the duo's journey, particularly former Twilight star Chaske Spencer as Lighthorse, a Native American sheriff and old friend of Bass who is after the same bounty.”
Bass X Machina's Release
Bass X Machina premiered on Netflix on November 3, 2026, with a TV-MA rating.
“Bass X Machina is now streaming on Netflix.”
The Show's Impact
Bass X Machina has been praised for its blend of historical trauma and sci-fi action, with a strong focus on character development.
“Bass X Machina offers a hint of more adventures to come, but only after bringing its story to a satisfying conclusion.”
Why It Matters
Bass X Machina uses its steampunk Western setting to explore real-world issues like technology, identity, and societal division.
“That’s not something every adult animated project can offer, and while the internal battles mean the show's pace can slow down at times, the story is delivered so elegantly that this is a small complaint.”
The Future
Bass X Machina is expected to have more seasons, given Netflix's history of canceling shows after limited runs.
“Bass X Machina is now streaming on Netflix.”
The essence
Netflix's animated series Bass X Machina, created by LeSean Thomas, follows Oscar-nominated actor Brian Tyree Henry as a bounty hunter in a steampunk Western setting inspired by real-life Bass Reeves.
