Ep 42. Battle of Steel Island

Astro Boy 2003 season 1 episode 42 titled "Battle of Steel Island" takes place on an artificial island that is home to a massive automated steel factory. The episode begins with a news report on the opening of the island, explaining that it has been designed to be a fully self-sufficient facility; from power generation using Geothermal energy to the production of steel using highly advanced processes.

After the report ends, the true nature of the island is revealed - it has been taken over by Tamao Serizawa, a self-proclaimed genius who wants to use the massive factory to produce a legion of robots to take over the world. His forces have taken over the control room, and he plans to use the factory to launch an all-out assault on society. The bridge crew, which includes a young boy named Toshi, is quickly subdued and taken hostages.

Astro Boy and his friends are informed of the situation and head to the island to investigate. Upon arrival, they encounter Serizawa's robotic forces, which have already begun production. They quickly discover a hidden entrance into the factory, which leads them to Serizawa's inner sanctum; where he explains his plan to create the ultimate army of robots to serve as his loyal minions.

Astro Boy quickly confronts Serizawa, but the evil genius is more than prepared to deal with him. He activates a machine that creates multiple copies of himself, each one just as powerful and genius as the original. The ensuing battle provides a glimpse into Astro Boy's new powers, including his speargun and his ability to "fly" by propelling himself with his boots.

The battle between Astro Boy and the Serizawa clones is intense, with each clone using their intellect to out-think and out-maneuver Astro Boy at every turn. It is only through his own developing intuition that Astro Boy manages to turn the tide and defeat the clones.

As the clones are taken down, so is the factory, with the advanced machinery being destroyed one by one. Astro Boy and his friends manage to free the hostages, and Toshi is reunited with his family. The episode ends with Astro Boy and his friends taking the controlled factory back to civilization, where it can be put to good use instead of causing destruction.

"Battle of Steel Island" is a thrilling episode that showcases Astro Boy's impressive powers and growing combat capabilities. With a fast-paced plot, clever villains, and intense action, it is a standout entry in the series.