What is it: Endride
Endride is an anime that mixes elements of fantasy, adventure and action, created by Kazushi Hagiwara and directed by Keiji Gotoh. The series first aired in April 2016 and quickly gained a dedicated fan base. The plot revolves around Shun Asanaga, a curious and intelligent teenager who, after finding a mysterious crystal in his laboratory, is transported to an underground world called Endra. This world is ruled by a prince named Emilio, who is seeking revenge against King Deruzain for murdering his father. Endride's narrative is rich in details and twists, keeping viewers constantly engaged.
In the Endride universe, geography and culture are fundamental elements that enrich the story. Endra is an underground world with stunning landscapes and a complex society, where technology and magic coexist harmoniously. The flora and fauna of Endra are unique, with creatures and plants that do not exist on the surface world. Endra's culture is marked by a rigid hierarchy and ancient traditions, which directly influence the characters' actions and motivations. Endride's detailed setting contributes to the audience's immersion, making the experience of watching the anime even more immersive.
Endride's characters are multifaceted and well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories. Shun Asanaga, the protagonist, is a determined and curious young man whose intelligence and scientific skills are crucial to his survival on Endra. Emilio, on the other hand, is an embittered and vengeful prince whose journey of self-discovery is central to the plot. In addition to the protagonists, Endride features a variety of secondary characters, each with their own stories and contributions to the narrative. The interaction between the characters is one of the strong points of the anime, providing moments of tension, humor and emotion.
Endride's soundtrack is another aspect that deserves to be highlighted. Composed by Yuki Kajiura, the anime's music perfectly complements the fantasy and adventure atmosphere. The melodies are carefully orchestrated to intensify the action scenes and move the audience during the most dramatic moments. The opening and ending of Endride are also memorable, with songs that capture the essence of the anime and become easily recognizable to fans. The quality of the soundtrack contributes significantly to the overall experience of watching the anime, making each episode even more captivating.
Endride's animation is high quality, with a visual style that combines traditional anime elements with modern animation techniques. The environments are detailed and vibrant, bringing Endra's world to life in a stunning way. The action scenes are fluid and well choreographed, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The attention to detail in the animation, from the characters' facial expressions to the special effects, demonstrates the care and dedication of the production team. Endride's visual aesthetic is one of the factors contributing to its popularity and lasting appeal.
Endride also addresses deep and universal themes, such as the search for identity, the struggle for power, and the importance of friendship and loyalty. Shun and Emilio's journey is full of challenges and obstacles, but also moments of personal growth and self-discovery. The relationship between the two protagonists evolves throughout the series, moving from mutual distrust to a solid partnership based on mutual respect. These themes resonate with audiences, making Endride a work that goes beyond superficial entertainment and offers meaningful reflections on the human condition.
