A thorough review of the Break Blade TV series: What makes the story and characters so appealing?

Breaking Blade TV Series - In-Depth Review and All-Round Guide

"Break Blade" is a TV anime series based on the manga of the same name by Yoshinaga Yunosuke, and was broadcast from April 6 to June 22, 2014. The story is set in a world called Curzon Continent where fossil fuels cannot be extracted from the ground, and tells the story of a war in which the protagonist, Rygart Arrow, who does not have magical powers, gets caught up in. Below, we will introduce detailed information and reviews of this work, as well as recommended points.

■ Public Media

TV anime series

■ Original Media

comics

■ Broadcast period

April 6, 2014 - June 22, 2014

■TV Broadcast

• TOKYO MX / April 6, 2014 - June 22, 2014 / Sunday 23:00 - 23:30
• Sun Television / April 6, 2014 - June 22, 2014 / Sunday 25:30 - 26:00
• AT-X / April 7, 2014 - June 23, 2014 / Mondays 20:30 - 21:00
• BS11 / April 8, 2014 - June 24, 2014 / Tuesdays 24:30 - 25:00

■ Online distribution

• PlayStation Store / April 6, 2014 - June 22, 2014 / Updated Sunday 23:00
• Bandai Channel / April 20, 2014 - July 6, 2014 / Updated Sunday 12:00

■Broadcasting station

・TOKYO MX

■Frequencies

half an hour

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 12

■Original Story

・Original story: Yunosuke Yoshinaga "Break Blade" (serialized in the web comic "COMIC Meteor")

■ Director

・General Director: Amino Tetsuro

・Director: Nobuyoshi Habara

■ Production

Animation production: Production IG, XEBEC

■Works

©Yunosuke Yoshinaga, Flex Comics/"Break Blade" Production Committee

■ Story

The continent of Curzon is a world where fossil fuels cannot be extracted from the ground. The people who live there have chosen the "power" that resides in the human hand as a power source to move things. Anyone can give "commands" to the "quartz" extracted from the ground, although the strength varies, and the people call this power "magic." Rygart, a rare "being without magical power" in such a world, is summoned by his schoolmate and king, Hozul, to the royal capital, where he learns a shocking truth... Rygart, Zest, Hozul, and Sigyn once studied together and were bound by a strong friendship. The whirlpool of war mercilessly engulfs the four of them.

■Cast

・Rygart Arrow/Soichiro Hoshi

Sigyn Erster/Chiwa Saito

・Hozul (Krishna IX) / Yuichi Nakamura

・Zeth/Hiroshi Kamiya

・Cleo Surf Lover/Kana Hanazawa

・Lily/Yuko Kaida

・Elect/Hideyuki Umezu

・Argus/Kenji Takahashi

・Narvi Strides/Marina Inoue

・Jilg/Kousuke Toriumi

・Nile Strides/Minoru Shiraishi

・Login G Gulf Ensance/Tomoya Kawai

・Baldo/Masashi Sugawara

・Tru/Kenichi Ogata

・Sakura/Nanaho Katsuragi

・Elsa/Mayumi Yanagisawa

・Legatts/Masumi Asano

・Borcus/Kazuya Nakai

・Io/Takahiro Terashima

Nike/Ryoko Shiraishi

・Lokis/Takaya Hashi

・Leto/Eri Kitamura

Bades/Kazuyoshi Hayashi

・Aires/Katsuhisa Takagi

・Reda/Nozomi Sasaki

・Greta / Kikuko Inoue

■ Main staff

・Original story: Yunosuke Yoshinaga "Break Blade" (serialized in the web comic "COMIC Meteor")

・General Director: Amino Tetsuro

・Director: Nobuyoshi Habara

Screenplay: Masashi Togawa, Daishiro Tanimura

・Character design: Takushi Norita

・Mechanical design: Takayuki Yanase

・Mechanic Director/Takuya Matsumura

・Prop design: Takahiro Yamada, Satoshi Muramatsu

・Art director/Toshihiro Kohama (Mimine)

・Color design: Mitsuko Sekimoto

Director of photography: Kazuaki Funakura

・Sound Director: Yota Tsuruoka

・Music: Yoshihisa Hirano

・Sound effects/Kurahashi Hiromune (Soundbox)

Edited by Junichi Ito (Jay Film)

Animation production: Production IG, XEBEC

■ Main Characters

■Kushulina Kingdom

・Rygart Arrow

Gender: Male Age: 25 Height: 174cm Country: Kingdom of Kushlina A "useless" being, said to be one in a million, who possesses absolutely no magical power. Because of this, he is unable to give orders to quartz, and is unable to control anything powered by quartz ligaments. He was despised for not having magical power, but he accidentally appeared in Delphin, buried in quartz, and it was discovered that he was the only one who could operate it. From there, the gears of fate began to turn... He is an old friend of Hozul, Sigyn, and Zeth from their days at the Assam National Military Academy.

Sigyn Erster

Gender: Female Age: 25 Height: 158cm Country: Kingdom of Kushlina Queen of the Kingdom of Krishna. Wife of Hozul. A top-class magical engineer, she is always working on improving golems, and is especially devoting her energy to uncovering the mystery of Delphing. She seems to lack a certain awareness and amiability as a queen. She is an old friend of Rygart, Hozul, and Zeth from their days at the Assam National Military Academy.

・Hozrul (Krishna IX)

Gender: Male Age: 25 Height: 193cm Country: Kushlina Kingdom The king of the Krishna Kingdom. He is trusted by the people due to his good personality, which is unusual for a king. He summons Rygat to the royal capital of Binonten, where they meet again for the first time in four years and ask him to help with Delphing's research. During the Assam Kingdom's coup d'état, he uses military exercises to allow Orlando's forces to pass through his territory. As a result, he is seen as siding with Orlando and is invaded by the Athens Federation. He is an old friend of Rygat, Sigyn, and Zest from their days at the Assam National Military Academy.

・Narvi Stride

Gender: Female Age: 24 Height: 165cm Rank: First Class Heavy Knight Country: Kingdom of Kushlina A first class heavy knight and special tactical advisor to General Tur. While attending the Kingdom's Central Military Training Academy, she achieved great results, including topping the mock exam for senior tactical officers, but at the time commoners were not allowed to take the actual exam. Her achievements include suppressing rebellions, defeating bandits, and winning a royal tournament once.

Niall Strides

Gender: Male Age: 25 Rank: First-class heavy knight Country: Kingdom of Kushlina He is the older brother of Narvi and, like his sister, grew up in an orphanage. He is an expert spearman, specializing in close combat. By the way, he is not good at writing. His rank is a first-class heavy knight. He can be a bit soft-spoken in everyday life, but he is calm and cautious when it comes to fighting.

・Login G Gulf Ensance

Gender: Male Age: 28 Rank: First-class heavy knight Country: Kingdom of Kushlina He is of noble birth and holds the rank of First-class heavy knight. He is a rare golem rider and sniper who can use a long-range press gun that is prone to malfunctions. Although he is a noble, he sided with the commoners three years ago when the noble alliance was on the verge of starting a civil war, just like Generals Balto and Tur.

Baldo

Gender: Male Rank: General Country: Kingdom of Kushlina One of the two greatest generals of the Kingdom of Krishna, he is a high-ranking magical warrior who rides a golem himself and takes command. As a general, he is a calm and collected person who excels at judging situations and taking action according to the battle situation, but he also sometimes acts boldly.

・Tul

Gender: Male Rank: General Country: Kingdom of Kushlina He is known as one of the two great generals of Krishna along with General Baldr. He leads the "Draupnir Heavy Knights." He established and runs an orphanage in Binonten using his own money.

Sakura

Gender: Female Rank: Captain of the Royal Guard Battalion Country: Kingdom of Kushurina Responsible for the defense of the royal capital. Becomes Rygat's combat instructor. A close-combat specialist who can use the heaviest multi-layered shield and the slashing sword "East Scimitar."

・Legatts

Gender: Male Country: Kingdom of Kushurina Younger brother of Rygart. Like his older brother, he does not have magical powers. He lived with Rygart on the outskirts of a village near Mount Pegu.

Jiggle

Gender: Male Country: Kingdom of Kushurina The only son of General Baldr. A year ago, he was imprisoned for killing a comrade during training without reason, but was released and joined the First Independent Squadron (Milleniru Corps) when it was founded. He has the ability to master the captured and modified Artemis in just one week. He can use the slashing sword "Easter Scimitar".

Elsa

Gender: Female Rank: Company Commander Country: Kingdom of Kushurina Serving as a company commander under General Barto. An excellent high-ranking magical warrior who pilots her own blue Fafnir and wields two press guns.

■ Athens Federation

・Zeth

Gender: Male Age: 25 Height: 182cm Rank: Captain of the Valkiures Unit Country: Athens Federation Captain of the Athens Federation Army's assault unit, the Valkiures Unit, which is made up of the latest lightweight golem, Artemis. He is a "genius magical warrior," but hates fighting more than most. He is the younger brother of Secretary General Lokis, commander-in-chief of the Athens Federation Army. He is an old friend of Rygat, Hozul, and Sigyn from their days at Assam National Military Academy. He plans to take over Kushurina, which is ruled by Hozul.

Cleo Surbaugh

Gender: Female Age: 12 Height: 153cm Rank: Member of the Valkiures Corps Nation: Athens Federation A member of the Athens Federation Army's assault force, the Valkiures Corps, which is equipped with the latest lightweight golem, Artemis. It took even Zeth a week to break in Artemis, but she finished it in a day. It is also capable of long-term operation. She is the only daughter of the prestigious Sarbrah family, a military faction, and was a classmate of Lii at the Ioris Federation Military Academy. She was a dropout who always spent her time reading fortunes with cards, but because she was able to control Artemis, she was allowed to graduate in two years as an exception along with Lii.

Elect

Gender: Male Rank: Vice Captain of the Valkiures Unit Affiliation: Athens Federation Vice Captain of the Athens Federation's assault force, the Valkiures Unit, which is made up of the latest lightweight golem, Artemis. Former military doctor.

Lii

Gender: Female Age: 17 Height: 161cm Rank: Walkyures Unit Member Country: Athens Federation A member of the Athens Federation Army's assault unit, the Walkyures Unit, which is made up of the latest lightweight golem, Artemis. She has a tomboyish personality and is a classmate of Cleo at the Ilios Federation Military Academy. Because she was able to control Artemis, which has complex power controls, she was allowed to graduate in just two years as an exception to the minimum required for graduation, which is six years, in order to join the Walkyures Unit.

Argus

Gender: Male Rank: Member of the Valkiures Unit Nation: Athens Federation A member of the Athens Federation Army's assault unit, the Valkiures Unit, which is made up of the latest lightweight golem, Artemis.

・Lokis

Gender: Male Age: 45 Rank: Secretary General/Commander-in-Chief Country: Athens Federation Commander-in-Chief of the Athens Federation Army and the older brother of Zeth. Decides to launch a military invasion of the Krishna Kingdom. Presents harsh conditions for peace, including the execution of all members of the Krishna royal family.

・Borcus

Gender: Male Age: 45 Rank: General Country: Athens Federation Graduated second in class from the Ilios Federal Military Academy. He has twice put down rebellions in Bergen, located in the northern part of the Athens Federation. He has also taken advantage of the civil war to seize control of Assam, a glorious military feat. He has a high rate of soldiers returning from each battle, and is highly trusted by his subordinates. On the other hand, many in the country's upper echelons are skeptical of his harsh actions.

Io

Gender: Male Rank: Colonel Country: Athens Federation A colonel in the Athens Federation Army. He was discovered by Borcus during the independence movement of the northern territory of Bergen and became his subordinate. He is well liked by his subordinate Nike. He pilots the golem "Troia."

Nike

Gender: Female Age: 25 Country: Athens Federation Subordinate of General Bolcus. Despite her childish appearance, which has earned her teasing as a "25-year-old underdeveloped old hag," she is ruthless enough to make an enemy's corpse a public spectacle. Pilots the golem "Giratos."

Reda

Gender: Female Country: Athens Federation Daughter of General Borcus, she can play the violin and will soon be competing in the Federation String Instrument Competition. She secretly has feelings for Colonel Io.

Bades

Gender: Male Rank: Chief General's Assistant Affiliation: Athens Federation A subordinate of General Borcus and aide to the chief general. Pilots the golem "Beltebone."

Dubne

Gender: Male Age: 53 Affiliation: Athens Federation He was originally the captain of the assassination squad, but was recruited and is now the captain of the Sparta squad. He pilots the Artemis Neos, an improved version of the Artemis piloted by Zest and the others.

Terton

Gender: Male Age: 41 Affiliation: Athens Federation A member of the Sparta Corps. He likes modified golems, and pilots a captured and improved version of an Orlando-made golem.

・Tupel

Gender: Male Age: 27 Country: Athens Federation The head of the prestigious Tupel family of Athens, he pilots the Golem Achilles, a completely one-off type made with his own money. He is a member of the Sperta Corps, but it is said he joined through connections. He graduated from the Assam National Military Academy, and is a classmate of Zest.

・Bahn (no real name)

Gender: Male Age: 22 (estimated) Affiliation: Athens Federation Raised in the irregular army from the time he was old enough to understand, he shows no interest in anything other than war. He pilots the Artemis Neos, which is equipped with two press guns. He belongs to the Sperta unit.

Leto

Gender: Female Country: Athens Federation A subordinate of General Bolcus and an aide to Colonel Io. Pilots a Radun equipped with a long press gun capable of long-distance sniping. The only female member of the Sperta unit.

■Subtitle

Episode 1: Un-Sorcerer (Magicless)

・Episode 2/Under Golem (Ancient Giant Soldier)

Episode 3: Not Bad (Truce Negotiations)

Episode 4: Close Combat

・Episode 5: Counterattack

・Episode 6: World Wind

Episode 7: The Night Before

Episode 8: Wasteland (Death Land)

Episode 9: Showdown

Episode 10: Lightning Speed ​​(Godspeed Unrivaled)

Episode 11: Last Stand (Strong Fortress)

・Episode 12 (final episode)/Endless Fate (Eternal Return)

■ Theme songs and music

・OP1

・Junction heart

Lyrics by Aki Hata

・Composer: Yusuke Kato

Arrangement: Yusuke Kato

・Song by Sasaki Sayaka

・ED1

・Beloved resistance, lead to the light

Lyrics by Aira Yuuki

・Composer: Yusuke Kato

Arrangement: Yusuke Kato

・Singer: Aira Yuuki

■Detailed review

The story of "Break Blade" begins when the protagonist, Rygart Arrow, who has no magical powers, is summoned by his friend and king, Hozul, to the royal capital. The work depicts the fate of him and his friends who are caught up in the whirlpool of war. Below, we will dig deeper and evaluate the work from various perspectives, including the story, characters, visuals, and music.

story

The story of "Break Blade" begins when Rygart, who has no magical powers, turns out to be the only person who can pilot the ancient golem "Delphin" by chance. This setting asks the question of how those without magical powers can live in a world where magic rules everything. The story depicts Rygart and his friends getting caught up in the war, realistically depicting his growth, friendship, and the misery of war.

Particularly memorable are the episodes that depict friendship, betrayal, and the cruelty of war. Rygart, Zest, Hozul, and Sigyn are old friends from their days at the Assam National Military Academy, and their friendship is at the heart of the story. However, as the war progresses, rifts appear between them, and there are many scenes in which their friendship is put to the test. These episodes deeply move viewers and make them reconsider the tragedy of war.

character

Each character in "Break Blade" is unique and charming. In particular, the main character, Rygart, is inspiring as he fights alongside his friends despite his handicap of not having magical powers. His growth and attachment to friendship are elements that strongly resonate with viewers.

Rygart's friends, Zeth, Hozul, and Sigyn, are also fascinating characters in their own right. Although Zeth is known as a "genius thaumaeus warrior," he is a kind-hearted person who dislikes fighting, and his conflicts add depth to the story. Hozul is torn between his responsibilities as king and his friendship, while Sigyn works on improving the golems as a thaumaeus engineer while also trying to fulfill her role as queen. The human drama of these characters further enhances the story.

In addition, the characters of the Kingdom of Kushlina and the Athens Federation are unique and add excitement to the story. Characters such as Narvi Strize, Nile Strize, and Rogin G Gulf Ensance are particularly impressive in their battle scenes. Characters such as Cleo Sabraf, Lii, and Elect from the Athens Federation also add color to the story.

picture

The visuals of "Break Blade" are characterized by high-quality animation by Production IG and XEBEC. The Golem battle scenes in particular are realistic and powerful, drawing the viewer in. The Golem designs are also unique, reflecting the individuality of each character.

The backgrounds and artwork are also beautiful, depicting the world of the continent of Curzon in a realistic way. The scenery of the capital city of Binonten and Mount Pegu in particular is visually stunning, enhancing the atmosphere of the story. The color design is also excellent, enhancing the atmosphere of each scene.

music

The music for "Break Blade" was composed by Yoshihisa Hirano. The opening theme "Junction Heart" features the impressive, powerful singing voice of Sayaka Sasaki, and is a song that symbolizes the theme of the story. The ending theme "Beloved Resistance, Guide to the Light" features the beautiful singing voice of Aira Yuuki, enhancing the moving story.

The background music is also used skillfully to match the development of the story, heightening tension in battle scenes and stirring the emotions of the viewer in moving scenes. The background music in the Golem battle scenes in particular has the power to draw the viewer in.

■ Recommended points

Here are some of the things we recommend about Break Blade:

1. Realistic depictions of war

"Break Blade" is a realistic portrayal of the horrors of war. It depicts friendship, betrayal, and the cruelty of the battlefield, leaving viewers with deep emotions. In particular, the scenes where friends confront each other on the battlefield will touch viewers' hearts.

2. Charming characters

Each character in "Break Blade" is unique and charming. In particular, the characters of the main character, Rygart, and his friends, Zeth, Hozul, and Sigyn, are elements that viewers can empathize with. The characters of the Kingdom of Kushlina and the Athens Federation are also unique, adding excitement to the story.

3. High-quality animation

The visuals of "Break Blade" are characterized by high-quality animation by Production IG and XEBEC. The Golem battle scenes in particular are realistic and powerful, drawing the viewer in. The backgrounds and art are also beautiful, and the world of the Curzon continent is depicted realistically.

4. Inspirational Music

The music for "Break Blade" was composed by Yoshihisa Hirano. The opening theme "Junction Heart" and the ending theme "Beloved Resistance, Guide to the Light" are songs that symbolize the theme of the story. The background music is also used skillfully to match the development of the story, stirring the emotions of the viewer.

■ Summary

"Break Blade" tells the story of Rygart, a protagonist who has no magical powers, who gets caught up in a war with his friends. The realistic depiction of war, the charming characters, the high-quality animation, the moving music, and many other elements combine to create a work that deeply moves viewers. In particular, the episodes that depict friendship, betrayal, and the tragedy of war will surely evoke strong empathy in viewers. This work is recommended for those who like stories about war and friendship. Please give it a watch.