Detective Conan 30th Anniversary Episode ZERO Review

Over thirty years, Detective Conan has stacked an amazing set of accomplishments with its themes of mysteries and romances. The series has gotten so popular that there’s so many mentions in other anime such as the Monogatari series, Tonikaku Kawaii, Inuyasha, and more! Studio Nano has also been tasked with creating a specialized set of episodes and new English dubs that you could find on Crunchyroll and Netflix. It has been almost 20 years since Funimation made the English dubs, showcasing how much influence and love the series has assembled.

For the 30th anniversary celebration, the series has decided to remake the Aquarium Case (originally aired as Episodes 772-773) with some exceptions and bonus content. In this article, I shall be covering the differences between the original and remake, bonus content, and how I viewed the episode from both a new and veteran standpoint.

Portions of this coverage have been lightly edited for clarity, as there will be major spoilers ahead

Shinichi and Ran Missed Moment

The case originally begins with Ran and the Detective Boys visiting the aquarium and enjoying their time together, until Ran suddenly recalls the murder that once took place there. The remake then transitions directly into the flashback, which marks a notable structural change from the original. This adjustment allows new viewers to follow the story without requiring prior knowledge of the characters, narrowing the focus primarily to Shinichi and Ran. However, this choice also resulted in the removal of a humorous moment that helped highlight their dynamic.

The omitted scene involved Shinichi telling Ran that she should stop running due to an injury she was attempting to hide, paired with a poorly explained deduction. Shinichi offers little reasoning beyond saying it would make him “sad,” prompting Ran to push back and explain why she feels she was born to “run.” The exchange serves as a lighthearted pun that reflects how deeply Shinichi cares for Ran, while also showing his tendency to withhold explanations, which naturally leads to misunderstandings.

Before Shinichi can elaborate further, the conversation is interrupted by the crime itself. It is understandable why this scene was excluded, as it would have required additional context, including Ran contacting Shinichi later, after he has already transformed into Conan. For those interested, the original Episodes 772 and 773 are worth revisiting to see how this moment pays off, as the resolution is best experienced unspoiled.

Case Differences

The first noticeable difference was how the remake skipped a hint that was originally hidden in the background. In the original episode, a person wearing a white hat is briefly shown recording something before the scene shifts to the gathering crowd. Many cases leave small clues like this for the audience to piece together, encouraging viewers to rely on their observation skills and remember subtle details. While hints can sometimes make cases feel easier, some fans appreciate when fewer clues are given, as it creates a more engaging challenge and a change of pace.

The second change involved how Shinichi narrowed down the list of suspects by emailing their confiscated cellphones instead of calling them. This adjustment felt more natural, as it allowed the suspects to be identified more quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the remake features one fewer police officer during the interrogation scene, where suspects are questioned about their alibis.

Bonus Content

After the case is solved, the story moves into a scene where Shinichi and Ran discuss plans to visit Tropical Land. The remake adds a new sequence showing Shinichi exploring the amusement park for ideas, featuring several callbacks such as the Mystery Coaster, Fountain Square with its sprinklers, Cola drinks, mascots, squirrels, and the Ferris wheel. Many fans recognize how significant Tropical Land is to Shinichi and Ran’s story, as it marks the last time they are able to properly see one another. Being able to explore additional context and lore through this exclusive scene felt like an amazing treat.

The scene was also accompanied by the well-known song “Nazo” by Miho Komatsu, which originally served as the third opening theme and was later covered by La PomPon for the 41st opening. The song remains a fan favorite for its memorable melody and its focus on themes of love and mystery, foreshadowing the ongoing struggle against the Black Organization and the challenges Shinichi and Ran continue to face.

My aching heart wants to tell you, even if it's just a little

No matter what kind of experiences I have, I still become lost

In this world, your love is something I want to attain

I can't forget the dancing lights that I gazed upon, ahh the mystery solves

Before the day ends, Shinichi encounters two familiar characters at the water fountain who predate this series: Aoko Nakamori and Kaito Kuroba from Magic Kaito. This original scene, created exclusively for the remake, shows how Shinichi and Ran’s day might have concluded had he not transformed into Conan. It also serves as a meaningful callback to Tropical Land, raising the possibility of revisiting the location in the future to bring their story full circle, perhaps even at the same fountain.

Short Synopsis

The scene was also adapted from “The Magic Kaito: Kid the Phantom Thief specials” and Magic Kaito 1412” anime episode “Kaito Kuroba’s Busy Holiday”, where Kaito has to be in two places at once (a Heist and Date), while avoiding the growing suspicions of both Aoko and her father – Inspector Nakamori. Shinichi never showed up in the Magic Kaito scenes.

The First Opening Reimagining

For a special anniversary project, it seems perfect that the episode opens with one of the series’ most recognizable songs, “Mune ga Doki Doki” (“The Pounding in my Heart”) by The High-Lows. The remake adds several additions to highlight the long journey of the franchise, including appearances from many of Conan’s allies such as the FBI, the Metropolitan Police Department, Amuro/Rei Furuya, Heiji Hattori, Kazuha Toyama, Masumi Sera, Mary Sera, Sonoko Suzuki, and Makoto Kyogoku. It also includes a reference to the song “Nazo,” featuring Professor Agasa and Ai Haibara alongside the Volkswagen Beetle.

When I first heard this song in Episode 1, all I could feel were the excitement and anticipation for the adventures and revelations to come. Revisiting the lyrics now, and reflecting on how much time has passed, it really highlights how the series itself has evolved. Shinichi, for starters, has grown into a more patient and methodical detective, balancing his secret identity while carefully weighing his decisions. Despite his reputation as a brilliant investigator, he continues to learn from his experiences. That humility and willingness to make mistakes is part of what makes him relatable to the audience.

I'm not remarkable

I'm not even praiseworthy

What I understand is the pounding in my chest

It's not even the answer; it's not even true

What I believe in is the pounding in my chest

Only in the pounding of my chest

First Ending Reimagining

Bossa nova is a type of music that focuses on more relaxed and gentle melodies, with a slow to moderate speed.

The next song that was reimagined was the bossa nova style “Step By Step” by Ziggy that always reassured the fans tension after a breathtaking episode. After thirty years of drama, fan theories, and ongoing anticipation, the song also serves as a fitting reflection of the audience’s resilience. Conan has endured repeated dismissal from Kogoro, along with near defeats at the hands of the Black Organization and various suspects, yet he continues to move forward. The lyrics reinforce the idea that challenges can be overcome through determination and perseverance.

Step by Step

I’m not getting impatient

Case by Case

Even if I get laughed at I don’t mind

Because across the countless days, she’s waiting

I gotta go my own way

There were not many additional changes, aside from restoring the original next-episode teaser and giving Ai Haibara a brief spotlight as a member of the Detective Boys. With the series reportedly entering its final arc, revisiting the original songs and early plot points serves as a meaningful callback before the story concludes. After thirty years of buildup, audiences remain eager to see how everything ultimately resolves.

Bonus Music

Throughout the episode’s short breaks, there were a few songs briefly playing, before it swapped back into the episode. All of these songs were actually chosen by the voice actors of Shinichi, Conan, Ran, and the creator himself Aoyama-Sensei in a special broadcast for the 30th anniversary.

Here are a few quotes below from the creator and cast themselves from the ytv official website

Memorable theme song project
Original author Aoyama Gosho: ZARD’s “Spinning the Roulette of Fate”
“The lyrics and tune are just great, and I remember that even though I’m tone-deaf, I would find myself humming along without even realizing it (laughs).”
Takayama Minami, who plays Edogawa Conan: Kuraki Mai’s “Your Best Friend”
“The image of the two cute kids pushing the trolley was very memorable. It made me feel like I was watching a scene from my childhood.”
Yamazaki Wakana, who plays Mouri Ran: Kuraki Mai’s “Secret of my heart”
“The ending video, where Ran sings the chorus of the song, still lingers in my mind.”
Yamaguchi Kappei, who plays Kudo Shinichi: Kuraki Mai’s “Rose-colored Life”
“It’s the opening song of the memorable episode, ‘The Scarlet School Trip,’ in which Shinichi and Ran officially become lovers, so it left a lasting impression on me.”

Conclusion

What were some of your favorite moments from this special episode? What other episodes or ideas would you like to see expanded on or brought back for the next anniversary? Whether you are a new viewer or a longtime fan of the series, this remake delivers a focused retelling while adding numerous references that longtime audiences will appreciate.

Finally, thank you to Gosho Aoyama for creating a universe defined by mystery, romance, and countless red herrings that has continued to captivate audiences for three decades.

Detective Conan will be releasing more specials including:

Kid vs Hakuba: The Azure Throne
Murder Case No. 30 (30号殺人事件): A two-hour special, the first in a decade, written by Takeharu Sakurai
Birdman Rally Collaboration: A story set at the annual event at Lake Biwa
J.League Collaboration: A special soccer-themed episode
Movie 29: Fallen Angel of the Highway: Releasing in Japan on April 10, 2026

For more coverage, I will also be highlighting additional cases and songs in a featured top ten list, reflecting on my long-standing appreciation for the series.

You can also check the complete playlist of 133 opening and ending themes spanning the anime’s thirty-year history.

Images: Detective Conan, Episode Zero: Kudo Shinichi’s Aquarium Case, Magic Kaito 1412

Detective Conan Case Closed