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Back Arrow
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| Back Arrow | |
 First Blu-ray volume cover, featuring Back Arrow | |
| バック・アロウ (Bakku Arō) | |
|---|---|
| Genre | Mecha[1] |
| Created by | |
| Anime television series | |
| Directed by | Gorō Taniguchi |
| Written by | Kazuki Nakashima |
| Music by | Kōhei Tanaka |
| Studio | Studio VOLN |
| Licensed by | Crunchyroll |
| Original network | Tokyo MX, GTV, GYT, BS11, ABC |
| English network | |
| Original run | January 9, 2021 – June 19, 2021 |
| Episodes | 24 |
Back Arrow (Japanese: バック・アロウ, Hepburn: Bakku Arō) is an original Japanese anime series produced by Studio VOLN, directed by Gorō Taniguchi and written by Kazuki Nakashima. The series aired from January to June 2021.
Plot
[edit]The series takes place in the land of Lingalind (リンガリンド, Ringarindo), a continent completely surrounded by a massive wall. The people of Lingalind revere the wall as a god, believing that all of existence is contained within and that the wall protects and provides for its inhabitants. While the land consists of several territories, it is mostly dominated by two powerful nations: The Republic of Lutoh (リュート卿和国, Ryutō Kyōwakoku), which values intelligence and diplomacy, and The Empire of Rekka (レッカ凱帝国, Rekka Kai Teikoku), which values honor and strength. These two nations are in constant conflict with each other over obtaining land and Rakuho (ラクホウ) capsules, which are sent from an unknown location once per month and land in predetermined regions of Lingalind, containing provisions and weapons that the people of Lingalind consider gifts from the wall. Some of these capsules contain devices known as Bind Warpers, metallic armbands that allow one to summon and control a giant mechanical armor known as a Briheight (ブライハイト, Buraihaito). A Briheight's appearance and abilities are tied to one's Conviction (信念, Shin'en), the thing they believe in above all else. Conviction is also recognized as an energy that flows throughout the world, powering various forms of advanced technology found within Lingalind and granting some people special abilities outside of operating a Briheight. Being defeated in battle while controlling a Briheight causes the user to disappear.
One day after a Rakuho is recovered by Rekka forces, a previously unheard-of second Rakuho lands in Edger Village on the outskirts of Lingalind's Iki region. Inside is an amnesiac young man whose only memory is that he is from "beyond the wall." Taking the name "Back Arrow," he seeks to journey back over the wall to restore his memory, entangling himself in the conflict between the two nations.
Production and release
[edit]The original anime television series was announced on December 28, 2019, and was produced by Studio VOLN.[2] The series was directed by Goro Taniguchi and written by Kazuki Nakashima.[3] Kōhei Tanaka composed the music and character designs were provided by Shinobu Ohtaka and Toshiyuki Kanno. The series aired from January 9 to June 19, 2021, with the series running for two cours (seasons).[4][a] The opening theme is "dawn" performed by Lisa, while the ending theme is "The End of the World" (セカイノハテ, "Sekai no Hate") performed by Shuka Saitō.[6] The second opening theme is "Heartbeat" (鼓動, "Kodō") performed by Eir Aoi, while the ending theme is "United Sparrows" performed by Flow.[7] Funimation licensed the series and streamed it on its website in North America and the British Isles, in Europe through Wakanim, and in Australia and New Zealand through AnimeLab.[8] On April 22, 2021, Funimation announced the series would receive an English dub, with the first two episodes premiering the next day.[9] Following Sony's acquisition of Crunchyroll, the series was moved to Crunchyroll.[10]
Episodes
[edit]| No. | Title [11][b] | Directed by [11] | Written by [11] | Original release date [13][a] | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Do Guys From the Sky Have Undies?" Transliteration: "Tonde Kita Otoko ni Pantsu wa Aru ka" (Japanese: 飛んで来た男にパンツはあるか) | Daisuke Yoshida | Kazuki Nakashima | January 9, 2021 | |
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General Kai Rhodan of Rekka claims a "Rakuho" which lands near the Lutoh Republic border containing a cache full of Bind Warpers. A Lutoh unit of Briheights soon arrive, but he defeats them by becoming a Briheight himself. A second Rakuho is then seen streaking across the sky, heading for uninhabited Iki Territory and Rekka High Diviner, Shu Bi, goes to investigate with warrior Ren Sin providing support. The second capsule lands in the remote Edgar Village. Villager Bit Namital suspects there's food inside, so the villagers start boiling the capsule while Shu Bi watches from afar. The capsule opens and a naked youth jumps out, recalling only that he came from "beyond the Wall", much to everyone's disbelief. Suddenly, a bandit attacks the village and uses his Briheight to obtain the Rakuho treasure. The sheriff, Atlee Ariel, attempts to defend the village and stop the destruction with her own Briheight, but she is trapped by the bandit. The naked youth grabs a Bind Warper from his capsule and transforms into a unique Briheight, Muga, rescuing Atlee and destroying both the bandit's Briheight and Bind Warper, although unusually the bandit survives. Bit has repeatedly called the naked youth an idiot, a "bakayaro!", which the young man mistakenly hears as "Back Arrow", and takes it as his name. | |||||
| 2 | "Is Having Dreams a Burden?" Transliteration: "Yume wa Mattaku Meiwaku na no ka" (Japanese: 夢はまったく迷惑なのか) | Won Chang hee | Kazuki Nakashima | January 16, 2021 | |
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Back Arrow heads off for the distant Wall in his Briheight Muga, but when the falls from exhaustion hours later, Shu Bi and Ren Sin catch up with him. Shu Bi offers to help him in a few days and returns him to Edgar Village. There, Back Arrow learns about village life and the conflict between Rekka and Lutoh. Shu Bi returns to the Rekka capital to carry out research at the Banned Text Archive. Meanwhile in Maestrog Castle in the capital of Lutoh, the bandit displays his broken Bind Warper and relates his experience with the naked youth and destruction of his Briheight. Princess Fine Forte sees the appearance of the foreigner as a potential for world peace, however the Lutoh military force the Iki president to retrieve the foreigner and destroy the Edgar Village. Tyrone Duster of the Iki defense force arrives at the village and begins to destroy it, but Atlee uses her inherited Bind Warper to invoke her Briheight, "Ryuju", but is ineffective. Sheriff Elsha finds another Bind Warper in Back Arrow's capsule and transforms into her own Briheight, "Shadoh", to defend the village, but is into a cavern. Back Arrow invokes his Briheight Muga and defeats Duster's Briheight and breaks Duster's Bind Warper, but again this does not cause the death of the wearer. Back in Rekka capital Shu Bi discovers an ancient text containing a prophecy that when a newcomer achieves self realization, the world will be destroyed. | |||||
| 3 | "Does a Huge Ship Bring Hope?" Transliteration: "Kyodai na Fune wa Kibō ni Naru ka" (Japanese: 巨大な城艦は希望になるか) | Jun'ichi Fujise | Kazuki Nakashima | January 23, 2021 | |
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Elsha's Briheight, Shadoh, emerges from underground, connected as a figurehead to the huge flying battleship Granedger. Together with Back Arrow's battle with Duster, the emerging battleship threatens to destroy Edgar Village and everything in the vicinity. The Rekka emperor, Zetsu Daidan, distributes Bind Warper armbands salvaged from the Rakuho to his troops in an effort to seize the foreigner. Meanwhile, Bit steals Arrow's Bind Warper while he sleeps, and the villagers prepare to hand him over to the Iki president in exchange for a new place to live. That night Atlee tries to release Arrow in return for defending the villagers, but she is stopped by Elsha, and Arrow agrees to remain a prisoner. As the Edgar villagers are transported towards their new location on the Granedger piloted by Elsha, Bit joins the Iki military in frustration in response to Elsha expressing her disappointment in him, at the departure of the villagers. Iki's president orders his forces fire cannons to destroy Granedger to avoid the ship falling into the hands of either Rekka or Lutoh, leaving Bit horrified. Bit throws Arrow his Bind Warper whereupon Arrow invokes his Briheight and saves the ship. Arrow and Bit then leave with the villagers to find a new homeland. When Emperor Daidan learns of the ancient prophecy, Shu Bi offers to capture Arrow himself. | |||||
| 4 | "Does Genius Come When Least Expected?" Transliteration: "Tensai wa Wasureta Koro ni Yatte Kuru no ka" (Japanese: 天才は忘れた頃にやってくるのか) | Tomohisa Onoue | Kazuki Nakashima | January 30, 2021 | |
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A flashback to fifteen years earlier shows the young friends Shu and Kai, along with other children from their poor village, being offered to Rekka in lieu of paying taxes and forced to become soldiers. Shu decides to exploit the opportunity to succeed and change the Rekka system from within. In the present, the mercenary group of Four Friends attack and breach a Lutoh border outpost in the "Neutral Zone". Meanwhile, Sol Athin suggests the Granedger dreadnaught follows a path through the neutral zone used by traders as the best way to reach the Wall in the north. They are soon confronted by Shu and Ren with Rekka forces who launch an attack. Atlee and Arrow invoke their Briheights to engage the troops while Elsha attempts to steer the Granedger towards Bandkia in the northeast. The Four Friends invoke their Briheights and use a "decouple" spray to halt the Granedger.[c] Facing defeat, Arrow clones his Briheight into four separate versions and attacks and defeats the Four Friends' Briheights, returning them to their human forms. Shu surmises that without a single "conviction" Arrow is not limited to a single Briheight. Shu suddenly disables all of the Rekka army's weapons and Briheights, and offers to join Back Arrow and Edgar Village. Impressed by Arrow's powers, Shu orders Ren to return to the Rekka capital and report his betrayal to Zetsu Daidan. | |||||
| 5 | "Is Today Yesterday's Tomorrow?" Transliteration: "Kyō wa Kinō no Asu na no ka" (Japanese: 今日は昨日の明日なのか) | Daisuke Yoshida | Kazuki Nakashima | February 6, 2021 | |
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A flashback to ten years earlier, Kai and Shu earn the respect of the Rekka emperor by finding a Rakuho and defeating rebel troops. In the present Kai sets off to confront Shu and finds him in the company of the Edgar villagers aboard the Granedger. Shu refuses to return to Rekka and Kai prepares to kill him, but Back intercepts him and they both invoke their Briheights. However, Shu has Dr. Sola Athin fire a particle cannon from the Granedger towards the capital. Expulsions rack the capital and Kai decides to return, but vows that his former friend Shu is now his enemy. Shu then reveals that he had remotely detonated pre-prepared explosives in the capital and that they should head for the north wall before the deception is discovered. In the capital, Ren Sin agrees to now serve Kai Rhodan. | |||||
| 6 | "Are Pretty Boy Farms a Thing?" Transliteration: "Bishōnen Bokujōtte Maji na no ka" (Japanese: 美少年牧場ってマジなのか) | Won Chang hee | Kazuki Nakashima | February 13, 2021 | |
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The Granedger continues on its way under the guidance of Shu. Meanwhile in Rekka, Kai has imprisoned himself to increase his conviction to defeat Shu. Prime Minister Tae appoints Kyo, the Minister of Defense as Head Diviner, and he investigates whether the explosions were truly caused by the power of the Granedger. The Granedger bypasses Lutoh and approaches the autonomous Walston Province, but is attacked by a Briheight controlled by a weakened handsome "pretty boy" called Bruh. Back Arrow easily defeats Bruh, and the boy takes the Edger leaders back to his farm which is inhabited solely by escaped Pretty Boys. They had all been bred specifically by Lord Walston as livestock for his cruel experiments to enhance conviction. Shu decides to visit Lord Walston and offers to have Back Arrow defeat the Pretty Boys in exchange for free passage. However, it is a ruse, and when Walston's army attacks the farm, Bruh creates a smoke screen and the boys steal all Walston's Bind Warpers then surround him with Briheights. Walston surrenders and the Granedger continues through Walston Province. | |||||
| 7 | "Is the Wall Really That Solid?" Transliteration: "Kabe wa Sonna ni Katai no ka" (Japanese: 壁はそんなに堅いのか) | Jun'ichi Fujise | Kazuki Nakashima | February 20, 2021 | |
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As the Granedger approaches the wall in the north through the neutral zone, it is monitored by Rekka's North General, Bai Toatsu. In the Lutoh capital, Princess Fine Forte admonishes Lord Walston for carrying out unauthorized experiments on the Pretty Boys and for attacking the Granedger without her authority. Walston is unrepentant until Commander Prax Conrad confronts him and severs his left arm. The Granedger reaches the wall, and Arrow tries to breach it without success, and Shu also fires the particle cannons at the wall, but with no apparent effect. Suddenly large vents open in the wall which emit a blast of wind which threatens the Granedger. Bai Toatsu then decides to attack the ship in his Briheight, but he is intercepted by the flying Briheight of Commander Prax who disarms him. The Rekka Prime Minister, Tae Howa, orders Bai Toatsu to stand down rather than provoke an incident with Lutoh. Prax invites Arrow and the Granedger to Lutoh and Shu accepts, however Arrow decides to stay at the wall. | |||||
| 8 | "What is the Bloodstained Knight Hiding?" Transliteration: "Chimamire no Kishi wa Nani o Himeru no ka" (Japanese: 血まみれの騎士は何を秘めるのか) | Tomohisa Onoue | Kazuki Nakashima | February 27, 2021 | |
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The Granedger travels to Maestrog Castle in Lutoh at the invitation of Commander Prax Conrad, one of the Six Supremes, while Arrow vainly continues to breach the Wall. Meanwhile at its western border region, the Rekka army continues its military expansion into other territories, leaving only Lutoh unconquered. In Maestrog Castle, the Edger villagers enjoy the hospitality of Princess Fine and she invites them to stay in Lutoh. At the same time, Lutoh officials and Shu bargain over what information they propose to exchange. Prax returns to the wall and manages to capture Arrow and take him to Supreme Scientist Demyne Shaft in Lutoh for analysis. He is rescued by Shu and Bit but a masked Prax tries to recapture them. During the fight, the mask is dislodged and reveals an angry Princess Fine who appears to have a dual personality and she prepares to slaughter them. | |||||
| 9 | "Why Do Lips that Profess Love Hide Fangs?" Transliteration: "Ai o Kataru Kuchibiru wa Naze Kiba o Kakusu no ka" (Japanese: 愛を語る唇はなぜ牙を隠すのか) | Michiru Itabisashi | Kazuki Nakashima | March 6, 2021 | |
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In her alternate warrior personality, Princess Fine pursues Arrow, Shu and Bit, but Prax intervenes and distracts her, promising to kill them herself to keep Fine's secret. Arrow is too weakened to fight, so he changes to his Briheight and escapes with Shu and Bit. Princess Fine returns to the palace while the Briheight battle between Arrow and Prax continues. They head towards Maestrog Castle and Arrow is forced back to his human form. Before the fight can continue, Dr. Sola arrives and stops Prax, revealing to the others that he is her brother, and responsible for the princess' predicament. He tries to convince Prax not to kill them but she is unconvinced, so Sola sets of a flash bomb and they escape while she is blinded. Later, Sola reveal that his real name is Werner Conrad, and he was forced to leave Lutoh after causing the princess to have a dangerous accident. In Rekka, Emperor Zetsu strips Prime Minister Tae of his position and ill-gotten wealth as he prepares Rekka to invade Lutoh and conquer Lingaland. In a display of power, Zetsu surprisingly challenges the general of the Lustar Emirates to a Briheight contest, but easily destroys his enemy's Briheight with a hand-held weapon. Zetsu then declares war on Lutoh, but Princess Fine publicly changes personality and defiantly insults him. | |||||
| 10 | "Can Have-Nots Have Backbone?" Transliteration: "Motazaru Mono ni mo Iji wa Aru no ka" (Japanese: 持たざる者にも意地はあるのか) | Jun'ichi Fujise | Kazuki Nakashima | March 13, 2021 | |
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The aggressive Princess Fine declares war on Rekka and orders Demyne Shaft to prepare their armaments. Fritz Kraus finds Arrow, Shu, Bit and Sola, but before he can transform into his Briheight, Dissonanza arrives and takes the group with her to the Depraved Palace, where they meet Elect Supreme Rudolf Conductore, one of the Six Supremes. Meanwhile Princess Fine arranges a contest between Elsha and Prax hoping to acquire the Granedger for her upcoming war if Prax wins. If Elsha refuses, Fine threatens to kill the Edger villagers, so Elsha accepts the challenge and the fight begins. Back Arrow and the others attempt to escape from the Depraved Palace, but are surrounded by Hans Paladin and the Armoured Division Briheights. However, Muga suddenly sprouts wings and he flies off with his friends. Arrow reaches the arena in Lutoh and changes Muga into a sword which Elsha uses to defeat Prax. As Elsha convinces Fine to use her love to overcome her evil persona, Fine loses her temper and uses a Bind Warper to transform into a Briheight, but suddenly her good personality appears and regains control, sealing her other dark personality inside the Bind Warper. Elsha then decides to form an alliance with Fine as an equal leader to protect Lutoh from Rekka. | |||||
| 11 | "Is This a Head-to-Head Fight?" Transliteration: "Makkō Shōbu no Sensō na no ka" (Japanese: 真っ向勝負の戦争なのか) | Kayonaka Yamada | Kazuki Nakashima | March 20, 2021 | |
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Emperor Zetsu announces a full scale invasion against Lutoh. Lutoh, Secretary Supreme convinces Princess Fine to keep her split personality secret and prepare for war against Rekka in accordance with Rudolf's wishes. Shu assists Demyne Shaft in developing his artificial Bind Warpers to equip the Lutoh army. Baran Sujita advises Fine that Rekka's army is three time the size of theirs and they prepare plans to repel the expected attack at two places, Viola and Siboe. Rekka general Goh Zenga with his Briheight Baryu and General Bai Toatsu with Senpu, lead the assault at Viola which is closest border point to Maestrog Castle. At Siboe, Ren Shin engages Arrow while Kai attacks the Granedger to get to Shu. However Shu had already prepared a strategy to defeat them both, and the Granedger continues on its way to engage Zetsu at Viola. Meanwhile, Prax gains the upper hand over the Rekka generals, but Zetsu unleashes his hand-held Briheight weapon and pins her to the castle wall. | |||||
| 12 | "Is Too Much Pride A Problem?" Transliteration: "Hokori mo Tsumoreba Akuta to Naru ka" (Japanese: 誇りも積もれば芥となるか) | Kuniyasu Nishina | Kazuki Nakashima | March 27, 2021 | |
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The war between Rekka and Lutoh has begun, with some successes on both sides. Arrow has damaged his hand and preventing him from using his "Saberblow", limiting his fighting ability. Lutoh plans to lure the Rekka army into the Viola canyon in an attempt to destroy the canyon and the enemy. Kai tries to stop the Granedger closing in behind to trap the Rekka army, but he is too weak from his injuries. Ren Sin comes to his rescue in her renamed flying Briheight, Reppu, after her conviction is forcibly reinforced by Zetsu. Kai initially refuses her assistance because of his pride, but she eventually convinces him to utilize her abilities and they merge into a combined flying Briheight called Gigan Reppu. Meanwhile, the Rekka generals are facing defeat from Lutoh and the Granedger, but Kai and Gigan Reppu arrive and he challenges Back Arrow's Muga. They begin to fight for ultimate victory, but as Arrow attacks his injured arm causes him to falter. | |||||
| 13 | "Do the Heavens Cry When the Princess Rises?" Transliteration: "Hime ga Tatsu Toki Ten wa Naku no ka" (Japanese: 姫が立つ時天は泣くのか) | Won Chang hee | Kazuki Nakashima | April 3, 2021 | |
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The battle between the Rekka and Lutoh Briheights continues. Kai renews his attack on Arrow who is helped by Prax Conrad, while the Rekka generals Goh Zenga and Bai Toatsu attack Elsha who are helped by Hans Paladin and Fritz Kraus of the Prax Armoured Division. The battle is broadcast live back at Lutoh by Supreme Rudolf, showing the Rekka warriors defeating those from Lutoh causing concern among the people. In desperation, Princess Fine summons her Briheight Lovsolute and goes to the battlefield where she re-energizes the Lutoh warriors. However, Zetsu dons multiple Bind Warpers and summons his Briheight Ogen. He approaches Princess Fine and forces her dark aggressive personality to reappear and the two leaders prepare for an all-out battle. | |||||
| 14 | "Is There Love on the Battlefield?" Transliteration: "Sono Senjō ni Ai wa Aru no ka" (Japanese: その戦場に愛はあるのか) | Michiru Itabisashi | Kazuki Nakashima | April 10, 2021 | |
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The dark Princess Fine attacks Zetsu, but after some initial success, he uses his strong conviction to drain Briheight particles from the area to counter-attack. In desperation, the dark Fine strikes at her own Briheight warriors to absorb their energy but Arrow uses his Saberblow to dissipate her out-of-control conviction and return her to her Lovesolute persona. Meanwhile, Shu withdraws Granedger which the Rekka forces interpret as a retreat, but then Shu exposes Granedger's Super-Dreadnaught Cannon, Granarrow, which combines Granedger's particle cannon with Arrow's Saberblow and it decimates the Rekka Briheight forces. However, the Rekka troops, charge towards Granedger in a suicide attack using only hand-weapons and suffer high casualties. In a surprise move, Fine uses her compassion to heal both the Lutoh and Rekka warrirors and neauralizes Zetsu's Briheight. Admitting defeat, Zetsu agrees to peace between Lutoh and Rekka, although when he returns home he still maintains his ambition for conquest. The Granedger is temporarily disabled in the battlefield following the firing of its cannon so Fine returns to Lutoh with Prax. However, instead of being hailed as a victor and peacemaker, the princess is accused of being a warmonger by the citizens after seeing images of her aggressive alter ego's behavior broadcast by Rudolf. | |||||
| 15 | "What Will the Riots Produce?" Transliteration: "Shikumareta Dōran wa Nani o Umu no ka" (Japanese: 仕組まれた動乱は何を生むのか) | Tomohisa Onoue | Kazuki Nakashima | April 17, 2021 | |
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The riots in Lutoh become a revolution, and the National Assembly of citizens demands Princess Fine's head. The princess makes an attempt to talk to the crowd, but Dissonanza, masquerading as Back Arrow, kills their leader provoking even more rage among the population. Meanwhile, the Granadger begins to slowly move towards the Lutoh capital. Rudolf proclaims Fine's removal as ruler of Lutoh, and the nobles of the Council agree, with the exception of Prax. Werner tries to kill Rudolf by using a Briheight, but Rudolf reveals that he has plotted against Fine since the beginning and Werner is attacked by a powerful unknown Briheight. With the rebellion gaining momentum, Prax tries to take Fine to safety but she insists on facing her people. Fine is about to be executed but she is rescued by Back Arrow while Prax stays behind to delay Dissonanza. Werner tries to save the Edgar villagers by taking them to the safety of Granedger, but succumbs to the spears of the Lutoh forces and dies. When the Council demands the return of Princess Fine, Atlee proclaims the princess is a political refugee of the Granedger and that from now on it will act as an independent nation, the Granadger United. | |||||
| 16 | "When People Want Peace, What Does God Want?" Transliteration: "Hito ga Heiwa o Nozomu Toki, Kami wa Nani o Hossuru ka" (Japanese: 人が平和を望む時、神は何を欲するか) | Jun'ichi Fujise | Kazuki Nakashima | April 24, 2021 | |
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Two months after the battle between Lutoh and Rekka at the Caravan Road Neutral Zone, Atlee Ariel is pronounced Granedger United's Queen and Princess Fine offers to act as its councilor. Prax, along with the Lutoh Armored Division and the Pretty Boys join them. Arrow and Shu travel to Rekka seeking an agreement for the Edger people and their allies to settle in the north of the country. They are met by Kyo Meiketsu, Rekka's new Prime Minister following the departure of the disgraced Tae Howa. While they discuss the agreement, a new flying dreadnaught appears and attacks the participants under the command of Tae Howa with the backing of Rudolf Conductore. Meanwhile, as Bit and Elsha race to the control room of the Granedger, they are confronted by a hooded figure who invites them to join the Lind Faith. | |||||
| 17 | "Is This How They Rise Up?" Transliteration: "Kakute Karera wa Tachiagaru no ka" (Japanese: かくて彼らは立ち上がるのか) | Kayonaka Yamada | Kazuki Nakashima | May 1, 2021 | |
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Tae Howa threatens Rekka and the Edger people in a huge flying dreadnaught with the backing of Rudolf Conductore. Zetsu withdraws Rekka from the talks and Back Arrow attacks the dreadnaught with Muga, but cannot reach Howa who has securely protected himself. Atlee calls Arrow back to Granedger to meet a cloaked member of the Lind Faith who states that The Founder has foretold of Arrow's arrival as the Newcomer and invites him to Epitaph Mountain which is beyond the Wall. Meanwhile, Zetsu in his Briheight Ogen attacks and kills Tae and defeats his dreadnaught. Back in Lutoh, Rudolf gives Peath Glinhouse a Bind Warper which he uses to raise the dreadnaught Maestrog from beneath the city and advances it towards Granedger. Arrow agrees to travel to Epitaph Mountain, but the Maestrog dreadnaught catches up with them. It begin firing its cannons and Peath sends out an army of flying Briheights, however Shu and Arrow transform Granedger into the vertical Granarrow which fires a mighty blast and defeats the Maestrog. With the assistance of the Lind Faith disciple, the Granedger then passes through the Wall, only to discover that there was another wall beyond it. | |||||
| 18 | "Is This the World's Truth?" Transliteration: "Kore ga Sekai no Shinri na no ka" (Japanese: これが世界の真理なのか) | Sō Toyama | Kazuki Nakashima | May 8, 2021 | |
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Granedger passes through a succession of illusory walls devised to shield the sacred mountain. The dreadnaught travels past columns of faces which appear to be of all those who died in Lingaland, and they see the face of Werner Conrad. A messenger from the Founder of the Lind Faith appears, explaining that Arrow was sent on a mission to destroy Lingaland, but lost his memory. Granedger is suddenly fired upon by the Maestrog dreadnaught which has followed them through the walls. Arrow attacks the Meastrog, and after fighting through its defenses, destroys Peath's Bind Warper, killing someone for the first time. Arrow suddenly releases an unknown force which wipes out all the Bind Warpers on Meastrog and the Lutoh forces wearing them. Rudolf informs the Edger alliance that Arrow was sent by God to wipe out life in Lingaland which has now served its purpose, like a ripe fruit for harvesting. Arrow tries to resist God's will and Shu orders the Granedger to blast Arrow free of Maestrog. They succeed and Arrow breaks free and leaves, however a new wall appears around the Granedger preventing it from moving further towards Epitaph Mountain and Arrow's escape. Bit then leads Shu and the others to the cargo hold and shows them the fully intact Rakuho which first carried Arrow into Lingaland. | |||||
| 19 | "Can You Sort This Out?" Transliteration: "Omae ni Shimatsu ga Tsukerareru no ka" (Japanese: お前に始末がつけられるのか) | Tomohisa Onoue Kim Hyoun il | Kazuki Nakashima | May 15, 2021 | |
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While Arrow heads towards the North Wall, the Edger group in Granedger are trapped within a temporary wall by God. Rudolf address Zetsu in the Rekka dreadnaught and explains that God has decided to destroy Lingalind because a human had progressed further than God desired. Zetsu vows to destroy Rudolf and what he calls his "fake God" and gives Prime Minister Kyo Meiketsu a Bind Warper to steer the dreadnaught which they name "Dairekka". Meanwhile, the wall surrounding Granedger dissolves freeing the dreadnaught. Arrow finds that he is unable to leave Lingalind and Rudolf forces him to return and crashes down near Dairekka. Granedger arrives and Shu convinces Zetsu to allow him to stop Arrow and his Briheight Muga. Princess Fine combines the power of Granedger and Lovsolute to get close to Muga and invoke her dark side, Lovsolute-Noir which absorbs Arrow's Conviction and returns him to his human form. However, when Shu shakes Arrow's hand to welcome him back, it appears that Arrows ability to destroy Convictions remains and he causes Shu to disappear. | |||||
| 20 | "Does People's Anger Reach God?" Transliteration: "Hito no Ikari wa Kami ni Todoku ka" (Japanese: 人の怒りは神に届くか) | Michiru Itabisashi | Kazuki Nakashima | May 22, 2021 | |
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Unable to stop his own destructive actions, Arrow sets off to confront Rudolf while Dissonanza uses her Briheight Phantasmone to prevent anyone from following him. Kai again merges Gigan with Ren Sin's Reppu, creating the Briheight Gigan Reppu and they attack Phantasmone, cutting it to pieces. Bit convinces the others to return to Lutoh to protect the people from the upcoming battle between Rudolf and Rekka. Prax arrives first and confronts Rudolf, but he is too powerful for her. Arrow arrives and saves her then attack Rudolf but again he is too powerful. Zetsu dons multiple Bind Warpers and hands the rest to his troops, and then merges his Briheight with Arrow who turns into Muga Sword and he attacks Rudolf. Rudolf then manifests his own Briheight, Diostrage, and merges with his dreadnaught Diobenedica, repelling Zetsu and causing mass destruction in the Lutoh capital. When all seems lost, Bit dons a Bind Warper which creates his Briheight, Kaiten, which is in the shape of a giant Bind Warper. He then combines with Granedger turning the dreadnaught into a gigantic Briheight. | |||||
| 21 | "Who Will Stop Me?"[d] Transliteration: "Dare ga Watashi o Tomerareru no ka" (Japanese: 誰が私を止められるのか) | Kayonaka Yamada | Kazuki Nakashima | May 29, 2021 | |
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Bit's conversion of Granedger into a Briheight inspires the Lingalind forces to unite in an attack on Rudolf's Diobenedica. They realize that Rudolf is manipulating Diobenedica remotely by cables, but are unable to break through his defenses. Bit then combines Granedger with Dairekka to form an even more powerful giant Briheight they name Granrekka. The combined Lingalind forces defeat Diobenedica, and Zetsu's Ogen combines with Muga Sword to impale Diostrage. Rudolf uses the physical contact with Muga Sword to transform it into a weapon to impale Zetsu, however Zetsu uses his remaining energy to reach into Rudolf's body and remove his chain of Bind Warpers. As he dies, Zetsu entreats the citizens of Lingalind to fight on as he and Rudolf are enveloped in a huge explosion. In the aftermath, Rudolf, Dissonanza or Arrow seem to have disappeared, but the Pretty Boys report that Arrow's Muga is staggering across the countryside, destroying everything in its path. Kai and Ren go to confront Muga, and Kai uses Zetsu's technique to create dark balls of conviction particles which destroy the parts of Muga that they touch. However, Kai is suddenly interrupted by the appearance of a gigantic Shu who reminds Kai that he promised to save Arrow. | |||||
| 22 | "But What Do I Live For?" Transliteration: "Sore de mo Ore wa Naze Ikiru no ka" (Japanese: それでも俺はなぜ生きるのか) | Kōsaku Taniguchi | Kazuki Nakashima | June 5, 2021 | |
|
Shu fits a giant Bind Warper to Arrow's Muga form while claiming that he rewrote Arrow's data, enabling Arrow to return to his human form. He then reveals that his human body is asleep in the Granedger and that his Briheight looks exactly like his human form. When Shu awakes, he explains that it was his Briheight form which disappeared when Arrow touched him. He says that he deduced that Arrow's power turns living beings into conviction particles which are absorbed by God to nourish the deity and it was part of Shu's risky plan to return Arrow to his human form. Meanwhile the Rekka forces capture arrow for killing Zetzu, but Shu offers information about God in exchange for his release. Shu starts by explaining that there are many "worlds" like Lingalind, like a snowflake with God's realm at the center and a "Lind" nodule surrounded by a wall at the end of each extension. Shu estimates that they can only reach God through Epitaph Mountain to negotiate with the deity. However, Kai challenges Arrow to a duel, and uses Zetsu's weapon, but Arrow refuses to fight and dodges Kai's blows. Arrow eventually realizes that it was the will to survive in the people he met in Lingalind which changed him from being a destroyer into a savior. | |||||
| 23 | "Does Destruction Rain From the Heavens?" Transliteration: "Ten Kara Furu no wa Hametsu no Shirushi ka" (Japanese: 天から降るのは破滅の印か) | Tomohisa Onoue | Kazuki Nakashima | June 12, 2021 | |
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Arrow and the Edger leaders head off to confront God over the planned destruction of Lingalind while Shu and Kai reconcile and join forces. They leave in Granrekka for Epitaph Mountain and the wall vanishes as they approach but they are confronted by Rudolf. He releases the Rondo of Ruin, a gigantic Rakuho device that begins to destroy Lingalind while he creates a gigantic multi-pronged spear which immobilizes Granrekka and neutralizes their Briheights. Arrow summons his energy and conviction to save the population and his Saberblow converts the spear's prongs back into pillars. Granrekka then fires an Astonishment Maser blast at Rudolf and attempts to stop the rotating Rondo of Ruin, but without success. Rudolf unleashes his Arbitrator powers, but Fine absorbs Granrekka's damage with Lovesolute while Kai combines Arrow's Muga Sword, Ren's conviction and Zetsu's Martial Arrow to destroy the Rondo of Ruin. Rudolf manifests it again, but Shu encourages them the blast through it to the other side. They break in to God's realm and confront a man with a similar appearance to Arrow and his Briheight looks like a dark version of Arrow's Muga. | |||||
| 24 | "Do We Head for the Stars?" Transliteration: "Waga Omomuku wa Hoshi no Gun ka" (Japanese: 我が赴くは星の群か) | Michiru Itabisashi Jun'ichi Fujise | Kazuki Nakashima | June 19, 2021 | |
|
The united Lingalind forces battle Rudiof's Diobenedica and Dissonanza's Phantasmone whose connection to God's power is suddenly broken. Relying on their own powers, Rudolf and Dissonanza continue to fight on. Meanwhile, Atlee challenges the man to explain why Lingalind and its population should be destroyed. He describes how a fleet of space ships carrying God's ancestors was struck by an epidemic and only a young newborn boy would survive. The ancestors created the "Lind" system to protect and nurture the child via a supply of conviction and left him as his guardian. However the survival instinct of the Lingaland people exceeded the system limits and like a malignant growth, it was destined for destruction in case it spread to other Linds. The guardian commences the destruction of Arrow and the others, while Rudolf's attack causes the Dark Fine to appear. Under Bit's urging, the Lingalind forces, including those who died and were converted to data, launch an all-out attack, destroying Rudolf and Dissonanza. Arrow offers to personally return the child to its home and his plea is heard. The Lingalind leaders reach the gigantic child which has been in stasis for 2,000 years. One month later, Shu has revised the conviction cycle, and developed an interstellar warp system. Shu, Bit, Elsha, Atlee and Arrow head off in their space ship to find God's home world, the third planet of the Solar System, called Earth. | |||||
Notes
[edit]- ^ a b Tokyo MX listed the series premiere at 24:00 on January 8, 2021, which is at midnight on January 9.[5]
- ^ All English titles are taken from Funimation.[12]
- ^ Liquid metals flow underground in Lingalind like rivers, and metal devices like the Granedger dreadnaught use its magnetic attraction and repulsion to float and move. Decouple spray temporarily neutralizes the effect for about one hour.
- ^ Title written as 誰が私をとめられるのか in the episode.
References
[edit]- ^ Harding, Daryl (November 5, 2020). "Code Geass Director's Next TV Anime, Back Arrow, Reveals January 2021 Premiere With New Visuals". Crunchyroll. Archived from the original on November 18, 2020. Retrieved January 21, 2021.
- ^ Pineda, Rafael Antonio (November 5, 2020). "Back Arrow TV Anime Reveals Half-Year Run, January 2021 Premiere, More Staff". Anime News Network. Archived from the original on February 12, 2021. Retrieved November 5, 2020.
- ^ Loo, Egan (December 28, 2019). "Code Geass Helmer Goro Taniguchi, Promare Writer Kazuki Nakashima Make Back Arrow TV Anime". Anime News Network. Archived from the original on November 21, 2021. Retrieved March 22, 2020.
- ^ Loo, Egan (March 22, 2020). "Code Geass Helmer Goro Taniguchi's Back Arrow Anime Unveils Story, More Staff & Cast, 2021 Date in Video". Anime News Network. Archived from the original on April 5, 2021. Retrieved March 22, 2020.
- ^ "On'ea | Orijinaru Terebi Animēshon "Bakku Arō" Kōshiki Saito" ONAIR | オリジナルTVアニメーション「バック・アロウ」 公式サイト [On Air | Original TV Animation "Back Arrow" Official Website]. back-arrow.com (in Japanese). Archived from the original on June 2, 2023. Retrieved February 11, 2024.
- ^ "Myūjikku | Orijinaru Terebi Animēshon "Bakku Arō" Kōshiki Saito" MUSIC | オリジナルTVアニメーション「バック・アロウ」 公式サイト [Music | Original TV Animation "Back Arrow" Official Website]. back-arrow.com (in Japanese). Archived from the original on December 4, 2020. Retrieved January 8, 2021.
- ^ Pineda, Rafael Antonio (March 27, 2021). "Back Arrow Anime Unveils Promo Video, Theme Song Artists, New Visual for 2nd Half". Anime News Network. Archived from the original on March 29, 2021. Retrieved March 27, 2021.
- ^ Friedman, Nicholas (December 21, 2020). "Beyond the Wall! BACK ARROW Anime to Stream Exclusively on Funimation". Funimation. Archived from the original on October 23, 2021. Retrieved December 21, 2020.
- ^ Friedman, Nicholas (April 22, 2021). "BACK ARROW English Dub Announced, Cast & Crew Revealed". Funimation. Archived from the original on October 22, 2021. Retrieved April 22, 2021.
- ^ "UPDATE: Funimation Titles Now Available on Crunchyroll (5/31)". Crunchyroll. March 1, 2022. Archived from the original on March 1, 2022. Retrieved May 13, 2022.
- ^ a b c "Sutōrī | Orijinaru Terebi Animēshon "Bakku Arō" Kōshiki Saito" STORY | オリジナルTVアニメーション「バック・アロウ」 公式サイト [Story | Original TV Animation "Back Arrow" Official Website]. back-arrow.com (in Japanese). Archived from the original on January 14, 2024. Retrieved January 8, 2021.
- ^ "Watch Back Arrow Sub | Action/Adventure, Fantasy, Sci Fi Anime | Funimation". Funimation. Archived from the original on January 14, 2024. Retrieved January 8, 2021.
- ^ "Hōsō Jōhō｜Bakku Arō｜Anime｜Tōkyō Emu Ekkusu" 放送情報｜バック・アロウ｜アニメ｜TOKYO MX [Broadcast Information｜Back Arrow｜Anime｜Tokyo MX]. Tokyo MX (in Japanese). Archived from the original on February 11, 2024. Retrieved February 6, 2021.
External links
[edit]- Official website (in Japanese)
- Back Arrow at Anime News Network's encyclopedia
Back Arrow
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Synopsis
Setting
The world of Back Arrow is set on the continent of Lingalind, a vast landmass approximately 3,000 kilometers in diameter, entirely encircled by an immense World Wall exceeding 10,000 meters in height. This impenetrable barrier is revered by the inhabitants as a divine entity that protects, nurtures, and sustains all life within, fostering the widespread belief that no existence lies beyond its confines—a notion central to the continent's cosmology and daily reverence.[4] Lingalind is divided into two primary rival nations: the Empire of Rekka in the west, emphasizing martial honor and individual conviction under the rule of an emperor, which deploys Briheights powered by personal belief; and the Supremacy of Lutoh in the east, an aristocratic realm prioritizing intellectual and technological supremacy, reliant on Rakuho capsules for its mechanized forces. These regions, along with smaller border territories and autonomous areas, maintain a precarious balance amid ongoing territorial disputes, with frontier villages like Edger serving as neutral outposts caught in the crossfire.[4][2] Rakuho capsules are enigmatic artifacts that descend from the sky approximately once a month, interpreted as benevolent gifts from the Wall, containing advanced technologies such as Bind Warpers—bracelets that enable warriors to manifest Briheights, colossal mechanical giants embodying the user's willpower and convictions. In Lutoh, these capsules are systematically harvested to fuel aristocratic mecha deployments, while Rekka integrates them into a philosophy of belief-driven empowerment, allowing even commoners to summon formidable Briheights through sheer resolve.[4][5] The culture of Lingalind is deeply intertwined with religious veneration of the Wall as an omnipotent god, supplemented by the influential teachings and worship associated with Shu Bi, a philosophical figure embodying principles of existence and inquiry. Crossing the Wall remains a profound taboo, viewed as an act of heresy that defies the divine order and invites catastrophe, reinforcing societal isolation and the sanctity of the enclosed world.[4][6]Plot
Back Arrow, a mysterious amnesiac man, suddenly appears naked in the rural Edger Village on the outskirts of the continent of Lingalind, which is enclosed by an immense, impenetrable Wall said to protect and sustain the land.[1] Armed only with vague memories of originating from beyond the Wall and a strange metallic arm called Rakuho that manifests as a powerful weapon known as Briheight, he claims to hail from beyond the Wall and sets out on a quest to return to his homeland, allying with the villagers including Sheriff Atlee Ariel and sparking unintended chaos.[2][7] As Arrow's journey unfolds across the 24-episode series, the central conflict escalates between the martial Empire of Rekka, which reveres the Wall as divine, and the technocratic Supremacy of Lutoh, leading to all-out war fueled by the discovery of Rakuho artifacts—ancient technologies that enable the summoning of giant mecha-like entities powered by human conviction.[1] Arrow becomes entangled in these geopolitical tensions, allying with rebels and figures in the city of Granedger while confronting the enigmatic Shu Bi cult, whose fanatical members seek to preserve the Wall's secrets at any cost.[2] These arcs highlight Arrow's growth from a bewildered outsider to a pivotal force challenging the established order, as revelations about the outside world and the true nature of Lingalind's existence come to light through intense battles.[7] The series culminates in climactic confrontations that expose Lingalind as an artificial construct, forcing characters to grapple with the Wall's impending destruction and the profound choices of venturing into the unknown beyond it.[1] Through Arrow's unyielding determination and the alliances he forges, the narrative resolves the war's ideological divides, emphasizing themes of conviction, freedom, and the human spirit's capacity to redefine destiny.[2]Characters
Main characters
Back Arrow is the titular protagonist, a mysterious amnesiac who suddenly appears in the rural Edger Village on the outskirts of Lingalind, claiming to hail from beyond the impenetrable World Wall.[4] Possessing no memories of his past, he exhibits superhuman physical strength and combat prowess even without mechanical aid, often relying on his instincts to fight bare-handed or with improvised weapons. He pilots the Briheight mecha Muga—a unique construct that manifests without the typical requirement of a "Conviction" core. Driven by an unyielding instinct to return "home," Arrow's journey involves allying with unlikely companions while grappling with his destructive tendencies, evolving from a perceived threat to a figure of hope as he uncovers fragments of his origins. Voiced by: Yūki Kaji.[8][4][9] Princess Fine Forté serves as a central ally and romantic interest to Arrow, hailing from the Principality of Ryuto within the Supremacy of Lutoh region. As one of Lingalind's Six Supremes, she begins as a sheltered royal with a dual personality: the gentle, idealistic Fine who preaches that "love is everything," and the more aggressive Finowar side that emerges under stress. Her key ability is piloting the Briheight Lovsolute, a mecha powered by her Conviction that emphasizes protective and restorative functions, though it can shift to a darker form reflecting her inner turmoil. Throughout the story, Fine forms a pivotal alliance with Arrow after he saves her life, transitioning from a naive figurehead to a resolute leader who actively challenges the status quo of Lingalind's divided nations, demonstrating significant personal growth in embracing responsibility amid regional conflicts. Voiced by: Mai Nakahara.[4][9] Shu Bi is a complex antagonistic figure who poses as a prophetic guide, wielding god-like influence over events in Lingalind through his mastery of Briheight technology. Formerly the High Diviner of the Republic of Rekka, he betrays his homeland to join the rebel faction Granedger, driven by philosophical convictions encapsulated in his mantra "I think, therefore I am." His abilities include manifesting a Briheight identical to his own form, granting him immense strategic and combative power derived from Rakuho elements, allowing him to manipulate battles on a grand scale. Shu Bi's development arc reveals layers of introspection and manipulation, positioning him as a foil to Arrow's instinctual heroism while subtly steering the protagonists toward revelations about the world's true nature. Voiced by: Tomokazu Sugita.[4][9] Among the key allies from Edger Village, Anne is a spirited young girl whose innocence and resourcefulness provide emotional grounding for the group, though she lacks direct combat abilities and relies on the village's communal bonds for her role. Her loyalty to Lutoh's rural way of life fuels her growth from a carefree child to someone who contributes to the resistance efforts against imperial threats. Voiced by: Nao Tōyama. Atlee Ariel acts as the village's young sheriff and a core fighter, inheriting her position from her late father and later ascending to queen of Granedger. She manifests the Briheight Ryuju using her pragmatic Conviction of "just get by," which suits her defensive, survival-oriented fighting style; her arc involves balancing local loyalties with broader alliances, evolving into a steadfast leader who bridges Rekka and Lutoh divides. Voiced by: Aya Suzaki. Elsha Lean is the resilient granddaughter of the village chief who succeeds him and relocates to Granedger, embodying unyielding determination. Her power summons the Briheight Shadoh via the Conviction "survive at all costs," emphasizing stealth and endurance in combat; her personal development highlights a shift from quiet observer to proactive chief, reinforcing ties to Lutoh while navigating loyalties amid escalating conflicts with Rekka. Voiced by: Ari Ozawa.[4][9]Supporting characters
The supporting characters in Back Arrow encompass a diverse ensemble that bolsters the narrative's exploration of societal structures, warfare, and fanaticism across Lingalind's factions. In Edger Village and the broader Granedger United, villagers like Bit Namital offer comic relief through his boisterous and optimistic personality, often lightening tense moments with humorous interventions while providing steadfast local support during village defenses and migrations. Voiced by Kenshō Ono, Bit represents the resilient everyday life of rural Granedger inhabitants, contributing to themes of community solidarity amid external threats.[10] Similarly, minor villagers such as Jim and Tom embody the grounded, humorous side of village dynamics, delivering comic relief through their quirky interactions and aid in daily operations, highlighting the ordinary folk's role in sustaining morale without delving into personal heroics.[11] Leaders from the Republic of Rekka, including the general Kai Rhodan and military figures like Zetsu Daidan, personify the faction's democratic ethos and tactical prowess in warfare. Kai Rhodan, as a key strategist, directs battlefield maneuvers with precision, often deploying Briheights in defensive operations that advance the plot's geopolitical tensions. These figures drive Rekka's role as a counterforce to imperial aggression, providing ensemble support in large-scale battles. Voiced by: Ryōtarō Okiayu (Kai Rhodan).[12] The nobility of the Supremacy of Lutoh, governed by the Six Supremes, illustrates aristocratic intrigue and internal power struggles. The Supremes foster courtly schemes that exacerbate factional rivalries and highlight themes of elitism and succession disputes. Surrounding figures in the court amplify these tensions through diplomatic machinations and alliances, contributing to Lutoh's aggressive expansionism without overshadowing the central conflicts.[4] Antagonists from Rakuho-worshipping cults intensify the series' conflicts through zealous devotion to forbidden doctrines, engaging in fervent battles via Briheights that symbolize blind fanaticism. These cult followers orchestrate ritualistic assaults driven by ideological purity, representing the dangers of unchecked zealotry and clashing with Granedger and Rekka forces to propel themes of ideological warfare. Operating as an ensemble of fanatics, they execute coordinated attacks that underscore the cult's role in escalating continental strife, often using forbidden techniques for dramatic confrontations.[13]Production
Development
Back Arrow was announced on December 28, 2019, as an original television anime series produced by Studio VOLN.[14] The project marked a collaboration between director Gorō Taniguchi, known for works like Code Geass, and screenwriter Kazuki Nakashima, recognized for Promare and Gurren Lagann, with the story centering on a secluded land called Lingalind enclosed by a massive wall revered as divine.[14]Staff and animation
The anime adaptation of Back Arrow was directed by Gorō Taniguchi, renowned for his work on Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, with series composition and scripting handled entirely by Kazuki Nakashima, known for contributions to Promare, Gurren Lagann, and Kill la Kill.[15][2] Character designs originated from Shinobu Ohtaka, creator of Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic, and were adapted for animation by Toshiyuki Kanno, who also served as chief animation director.[2][15] Mecha designs for the Briheight units, including Muga, Ryuju, Shadoh, and Gigan, were created by Hidetaka Tenjin.[15] The voice cast featured Yūki Kaji as the titular Back Arrow, Ami Koshimizu as Fine Forté, and Tomokazu Sugita as Shu Bi, alongside supporting roles such as Aya Suzaki as Atlee Ariel and Ari Ozawa as Elsha Lean.[2][9] Produced by Studio VOLN, the series employed a hybrid animation approach, combining traditional 2D techniques for character movements with 3D CGI for mecha battles and Briheight sequences to enhance dynamic action scenes.[2] Episode direction was handled by multiple staff members, including Jun'ichi Fujise (eps 3, 7, 10, 16, 24) and Tomohisa Onoue (eps 4, 8, 15, 19, 23), with storyboarding contributions from Taniguchi (eps 1, 5, 24) and Daisuke Yoshida (ep 11), among others.[2]Music
Score
The score for Back Arrow was composed by Kōhei Tanaka, a prolific Japanese composer known for his orchestral work on the long-running anime series One Piece. Tanaka's contributions to the series emphasize dynamic orchestral arrangements that support the epic scale of mecha confrontations and the adventurous tone of the protagonist's journey across Lingalind.[16][5] The music blends grand, sweeping symphonic elements with subtler, character-driven themes to heighten emotional tension during scenes of intrigue and cultural exploration, thereby reinforcing the narrative's themes of conviction and mysticism. Representative tracks illustrate this versatility, such as bold brass-driven cues for action sequences and atmospheric strings for quieter, introspective moments.[5][17] The original soundtrack was released on June 23, 2021, by Aniplex as a two-disc compilation featuring 66 tracks with a total runtime of 147 minutes and 48 seconds. Disc 1 comprises 37 primarily instrumental pieces evoking the series' world-building and conflicts, including "Lingalind" (2:00), "As You Wish!" (1:56), and "Battlefield" (1:16); Disc 2 adds 29 tracks with variations like piano and violin renditions, alongside vocal inserts such as "Love Is Everything" and "God Is Everything," aligned with pivotal story developments in the 24-episode run.[18][19]Theme songs
The opening theme for the first cour (episodes 1–12) of Back Arrow is "dawn", performed by LiSA. The animated sequence features high-energy visuals of mecha combat, explosive battles, and montages introducing key characters like Back Arrow and his allies, emphasizing the series' action-driven narrative and themes of breaking boundaries.[2][20] For the second cour (episodes 13–24), the opening theme shifts to "Kodou" (Pulse), performed by Aoi Eir. This sequence builds on the mecha action with more intricate character interactions and escalating conflicts, incorporating dynamic shots of armored vehicles and environmental destruction to reflect the intensifying plot.[2][21] The ending theme for episodes 1–12 is "Sekai no Hate" (The End of the World), performed by Shuka Saitō, who also voices a lead character in the series. The visuals focus on serene yet poignant reflections, with imagery of vast landscapes divided by the central Wall, symbolizing themes of isolation, borders, and personal loss amid the characters' journeys.[2][22] Episodes 13–24 feature "United Sparrows" as the ending theme, performed by FLOW. This sequence portrays emotional group dynamics through softer animations of characters reuniting and overcoming division, underscoring motifs of unity and resilience in the face of existential threats.[2][23] Insert songs appear in select episodes to heighten dramatic moments, particularly during battles. "Demyne Gasshoudan no Uta" (Song of the Demyne Chorus), performed by the in-universe group Demyne Gasshoudan, plays in episodes 10, 15, and 17–18, accompanying choral-like sequences that evoke cultural and communal resolve.[24] Additionally, "Shinnen no Shumesusha-tachi yo" (O Convergers of Beliefs), performed by Noa, is used in episode 21 to intensify a pivotal confrontation, blending orchestral elements with lyrical introspection on faith and convergence.[24]Release
Broadcast
Back Arrow premiered in Japan on January 9, 2021, and aired until June 19, 2021, spanning 24 episodes across two consecutive cours as a winter-to-spring season anime.[1] The series was broadcast on Tokyo MX, BS11, Gunma TV, Tochigi TV, and other regional networks. The weekly time slot was Saturdays at 00:00 JST (equivalent to late Friday nights following 24:00 on January 8 for the premiere), allowing it to fit into the typical late-night anime programming block. This scheduling positioned Back Arrow as a key offering in the 2021 winter anime lineup, produced by Studio VOLN under the direction of Gorō Taniguchi. Leading up to the premiere, promotional efforts included the release of multiple trailers and key visuals to generate anticipation, particularly tying into New Year's 2021 excitement. The first teaser visual and promotional video debuted in March 2020, followed by a second trailer in November 2020 announcing the opening theme by LiSA. Additional materials, such as character designs and cast announcements, were shared via the official website and events, building momentum for the series launch.Distribution
Funimation announced that it would simulcast the series internationally starting on January 9, 2021, with new episodes available shortly after their Japanese broadcast. An English-dubbed version premiered on Funimation's platform on April 23, 2021, covering the first two episodes initially, with subsequent episodes dubbed weekly thereafter. Following the merger of Funimation into Crunchyroll in 2022, the series, including its English dub, became available on Crunchyroll for streaming worldwide in regions where the service operates.[3] Crunchyroll also provides dubbed versions in additional languages, such as Spanish (Latin American), to expand accessibility for international audiences.[25] In Japan, the series was released on home video in eight Blu-ray and DVD volumes by Aniplex, with the first volume launching on April 28, 2021, and the final volume on November 24, 2021; these editions included limited production variants with bonus materials like storage boxes and art booklets.[26] Internationally, home media distribution has been limited, primarily through Crunchyroll's releases; Part 1 (episodes 1–12) was issued on Blu-ray in North America on July 26, 2022, featuring both English and Japanese audio tracks with English subtitles.[27] Part 2 (episodes 13–24) followed on September 13, 2022, with the same audio and subtitle options.[2] No widespread physical releases in other regions beyond North America have occurred.[2]Reception
Critical response
Back Arrow received mixed reviews from critics, who praised director Goro Taniguchi's handling of the series' mecha elements and action sequences while critiquing its pacing and character development. Anime News Network reviewers highlighted the innovative concept of Briheights as manifestations of personal conviction, noting the smooth integration of CG mecha designs and bombastic fight choreography that elevated the action to "good-to-great" levels, particularly in episodes featuring dynamic camera work and non-lethal combat resolutions.[28] Similarly, Otaku USA Magazine commended Taniguchi's return to original mecha storytelling, drawing parallels to his earlier works like s-CRY-ed and Gun x Sword, and appreciated the sharp character and robot designs that supported engaging twists in a divided, wall-enclosed world.[29] Critics pointed to rushed pacing as a recurring issue, with the plot advancing too quickly to allow for deeper exploration of its setup, resulting in episodes that lacked breathing room amid escalating conflicts. Anime News Network also noted that while the core cast had charming rapport and fun dynamics, supporting characters often felt underdeveloped or overlooked, especially in the finale where rushed growth left figures like Atlee and Elsha underexplored.[30] Despite these flaws, the series was seen as a solid modern mecha entry with heart and visual flair.[28] Thematic analyses post-airing positively regarded Back Arrow's exploration of nationalism and isolation, framing the walled nation of Lingalind as a metaphor for insular societies clashing through political intrigue and ideological convictions. Reviewers appreciated how the narrative used rebellion and societal transformation to question identity and peace in a divided land, blending philosophical undertones with silly grandeur.[29][6] The series received no major awards or nominations, though it was recognized in 2021 anime roundups for its originality as a rare non-adaptation mecha project amid a landscape dominated by sequels and manga-based stories.[29]Popularity
Back Arrow achieved moderate viewership during its initial broadcast in Japan on networks including Tokyo MX, BS11, and AT-X from January to June 2021, aligning with standard figures for late-night anime programming in the 1-2% range. Internationally, the series saw stronger engagement on streaming services, simulcast on Crunchyroll and Funimation, where it drew a niche but enthusiastic audience focused on its mecha elements. On MyAnimeList, it amassed over 14,000 user entries with an average score of 6.33, reflecting solid interest among genre enthusiasts despite not breaking into mainstream rankings.[1][3] Audience reception emphasized the series' entertaining mecha combat, with fans on forums and review sites lauding the fluid, high-energy Briheight battles that blended traditional animation with effective CG integration for explosive, large-scale confrontations. Discussions often highlighted these action sequences as a highlight, evoking classic super robot adventures while incorporating fresh twists on themes of conviction and destruction. The finale, however, proved divisive, praised for its thematic resolution—culminating in Arrow's departure from Lingalind toward Earth—and visual spectacle, but critiqued by some for rushed character developments in arcs like those of Atlee and Elsha. As of November 2025, no sequel announcements have emerged, leaving the story's impact tied to its cult following within mecha communities.[30] Merchandise efforts centered on collectible figures, with Bandai Spirits issuing Robot Spirits models of key Briheights, such as the Briheight: Muga (piloted by Back Arrow, approximately 155mm tall and highly poseable) and the towering Briheight: Gigan (165mm tall, emphasizing its massive in-series presence). These releases, available from 2021 onward, catered to model kit builders and collectors, enabling recreations of the show's dynamic designs and contributing to its enduring appeal among hobbyists. Home video Blu-ray volumes further supported lasting accessibility, with Part 1 and Part 2 editions released in 2022.[31][32][2]Episodes
Episode list
Back Arrow consists of 24 episodes, each running approximately 24 minutes in length.[2] The series aired weekly on Saturdays from January 9 to June 19, 2021.[1] All episodes were written by Kazuki Nakashima.[2] Episode directors are listed below alongside titles and air dates.[2]| No. | English Title | Japanese Title (Romaji) | Air Date | Episode Director |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Do Guys From the Sky Have Undies? | Tonde Kita Otoko ni Pantsu wa Aru ka (飛んで来た男にパンツはあるか) | Jan 9, 2021 | Daisuke Yoshida |
| 2 | Is Having Dreams a Burden? | Yume wa Mattaku Meiwaku na no ka (夢はまったく迷惑なのか) | Jan 16, 2021 | Chang Hee-won |
| 3 | Does a Huge Ship Bring Hope? | Kyodai na Shirokan (Fune) wa Kibō ni Naru ka (巨大な城艦(ふね)は希望になるか) | Jan 23, 2021 | Junichi Fujise |
| 4 | Does Genius Come When Least Expected? | Tensai wa Wasureta Koro ni Yattekuru no ka (天才は忘れた頃にやってくるのか) | Jan 30, 2021 | Tomohisa Onoue |
| 5 | Is Today Yesterday's Tomorrow? | Kyō wa Kinō no Ashita na no ka (今日は昨日の明日なのか) | Feb 6, 2021 | Daisuke Yoshida |
| 6 | Are Pretty Boy Farms a Thing? | Bishōnen Bokujō tte Maji na no ka (美少年牧場ってマジなのか) | Feb 13, 2021 | Chang Hee-won |
| 7 | Is the Wall Really That Solid? | Kabe wa Sonnani Katai no ka (壁はそんなに堅いのか) | Feb 20, 2021 | Junichi Fujise |
| 8 | What is the Bloodstained Knight Hiding? | Chimamire no Kishi wa Nani o Himeru no ka (血まみれの騎士は何を秘めるのか) | Feb 27, 2021 | Tomohisa Onoue |
| 9 | Why Do Lips that Profess Love Hide Fangs? | Ai o Kataru Kuchibiru wa Naze Kiba o Kakusu no ka (愛を語る唇はなぜ牙を隠すのか) | Mar 6, 2021 | Michiru Itabisashi |
| 10 | Can Have-Nots Have Backbone? | Motazaru Mono ni mo Iji wa Aru no ka (持たざる者にも意地はあるのか) | Mar 13, 2021 | Junichi Fujise |
| 11 | Is This a Head-to-Head Fight? | Makkō Shōbu no Sensō na no ka (真っ向勝負の戦争なのか) | Mar 20, 2021 | Kayona Yamada |
| 12 | Is Too Much Pride A Problem? | Hokori mo Tsumoreba Gomi to Naru ka (誇りも積もれば芥となるか) | Mar 27, 2021 | Kuniyasu Nishina |
| 13 | Do the Heavens Cry When the Princess Rises? | Hime ga Tatsu Toki Ten wa Naku no ka (姫が立つ時 天は泣くのか) | Apr 3, 2021 | Chang Hee-won |
| 14 | Is There Love on the Battlefield? | Sono Senjō ni Ai wa Aru no ka (その戦場に愛はあるのか) | Apr 10, 2021 | Michiru Itabisashi |
| 15 | What Will the Riots Produce? | Shikumareta Dōran wa Nani o Umu no ka (仕組まれた動乱は何を生むのか) | Apr 17, 2021 | Tomohisa Onoue |
| 16 | When People Want Peace, What Does God Want? | Nin ga Heiwa o Nozomu Toki, Kami wa Nani o Hossuru ka (人が平和を望む時、神は何を欲するか) | Apr 24, 2021 | Junichi Fujise |
| 17 | Is This How They Rise Up? | Kaku te Karera wa Tachiagaru no ka (かくて彼らは立ち上がるのか) | May 1, 2021 | Kayona Yamada |
| 18 | Is This the World's Truth? | Kore ga Sekai no Shinri na no ka (これが世界の真理なのか) | May 8, 2021 | Sō Toyama |
| 19 | Can You Sort This Out? | Omae ni Shimatsu ga Tsukerareru no ka (お前に始末がつけられるのか) | May 15, 2021 | Hyoun Il Kim / Tomohisa Onoue |
| 20 | Does People's Anger Reach God? | Nin no Ikari wa Kami ni Todoku ka (人の怒りは神に届くか) | May 22, 2021 | Michiru Itabisashi |
| 21 | Who Will Stop Me? | Dare ga Watashi o Tomerareru no ka (誰が私をとめられるのか) | May 29, 2021 | Kayona Yamada |
| 22 | But What Do I Live For? | Soredemo Ore wa Naze Ikiru no ka (それでも俺はなぜ生きるのか) | Jun 5, 2021 | Kōsaku Taniguchi |
| 23 | Does Destruction Rain From the Heavens? | Ten kara Furu no wa Hametsu no Shirushi ka (天から降るのは破滅の印か) | Jun 12, 2021 | Tomohisa Onoue |
| 24 | Do We Head for the Stars? | Waga ga Omomuku wa Hoshi no Gun ka (我が赴くは星の群か) | Jun 19, 2021 | Junichi Fujise / Michiru Itabisashi |