What is it: Akuma no Riddle
Akuma no Riddle is an anime and manga series known for its captivating plot and engaging characters. The story takes place at Myoujou Academy, an exclusive girls' school, where a special class, the Black Class, consists of 12 assassins and one victim. The assassins' mission is to eliminate the victim, while the victim must survive until graduation. The protagonist, Tokaku Azuma, is one of the assassins, but upon meeting the victim, Haru Ichinose, she decides to protect her rather than kill her. This twist creates an interesting and suspenseful dynamic, with each episode revealing more about the characters' motivations and pasts.
The Akuma no Riddle series, also known as Riddle Story of Devil, is based on the manga written by Yun Kouga and illustrated by Sunao Minakata. The manga was first published in 2012 in Kadokawa Shoten's Newtype magazine. The anime, produced by Diomedéa, aired in 2014 and quickly gained a dedicated fanbase. The combination of action, mystery, and psychological elements makes Akuma no Riddle a unique work within the murder-survival anime genre. Furthermore, the series addresses themes of friendship, loyalty, and the characters' internal struggle between following orders and doing what is morally right.
The characters in Akuma no Riddle are one of the series' strengths. Each assassin has a complex backstory and unique abilities, adding depth to the plot. Tokaku Azuma, the protagonist, has been a trained assassin since she was young, but her interaction with Haru Ichinose makes her question her own beliefs and goals. Haru, on the other hand, is a seemingly fragile character, but possesses surprising inner strength. The relationship between Tokaku and Haru is central to the series, and its development is carefully handled, demonstrating the characters' development throughout the episodes.
Akuma no Riddle's setting is also noteworthy. Myoujou Academy blends elements of a traditional high school with secret and dangerous areas, creating an environment ripe for tension and suspense. The school is almost a character in itself, with its shadowy hallways and classrooms hiding secrets. The atmosphere is complemented by the soundtrack, which intensifies the action scenes and the characters' moments of introspection. The art direction and animation are of high quality, contributing to the viewer's immersion in the story.
Another interesting aspect of Akuma no Riddle is how the series handles morality and character choices. Each assassin has her own reasons for being in Class Black, and these motivations are explored throughout the series. Some characters are driven by revenge, others by necessity or coercion, and some simply by the desire to prove their abilities. The series doesn't offer easy answers about what is right or wrong, but rather presents a complex landscape where the characters must make difficult decisions that affect not only their lives, but also the lives of those around them.
Akuma no Riddle also stands out for its portrayal of strong and diverse female characters. The series challenges gender stereotypes by presenting women in powerful and active roles without sacrificing emotional depth. The interactions between the characters are rich and multifaceted, exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption. The predominantly female cast also allows for a deeper exploration of female relationships, something not always common in action and thriller anime. This approach contributes to Akuma no Riddle's originality and enduring appeal.
