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Maitetsu
Maitetsu PC cover
まいてつ
Video game
DeveloperLose
PublisherLose
Directed bytO
Genreeroge, visual novel
EngineKiriKiri
PlatformWindows, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
ReleasedMarch 25, 2016
Anime television series
Rail Romanesque
Directed byHirasawa Hisayoshi[a]
Produced bytO
Written byKouichi Motomura
Music byYouichi Sakai
StudioSaetta
Licensed byCrunchyroll
Funimation
Original networkTokyo MX, BS11, MBS, Wowow
Original run October 3, 2020 – December 19, 2020
Episodes12
Video game
Maitetsu: Last Run!!
DeveloperLose
PublisherLose
Directed bytO
Genreeroge, visual novel
EngineKiriKiri
PlatformWindows
ReleasedOctober 30, 2020
Anime television series
Rail Romanesque 2
Directed byMichiru Ebira
StudioYokohama Animation Laboratory
Cloud Hearts
Original networkTokyo MX
Original run October 6, 2023 – December 29, 2023
Episodes13

Maitetsu (Japanese: まいてつ) is a visual novel developed by Lose, which has also been adapted into the anime series Rail Romanesque (Japanese: レヱル・ロマネスク, Hepburn: Reeru Romanesuku). Maitetsu was initially released in Japan in 2016,[1] and it was released internationally by Sekai Project on Steam in 2018.[2] Sekai Project also released an uncensored, 18+ version of the game on Fakku.[3] An expanded re-release, Maitetsu: Last Run, was released in 2020 and contains the original Maitetsu as well as content that could be interpreted as a full sequel.[4]

Rail Romanesque, an anime spinoff of the game, was announced in 2019 and released in 2020.[2] Outside of Japan, the anime was released by Crunchyroll and Funimation.[5][6] A second season was announced and aired from October to December 2023.[7]

Plot

[edit]

Maitetsu is set in an alternate reality of Japan named Hinomoto in which railway locomotives are paired up with "Raillords", anthropomorphized girls representing the locomotives. However, a new form of transportation later became popular, leaving railways in disuse. The game follows Sotetsu, who reawakens Hachiroku, the Raillord of steam locomotives No.8620. Sotetsu then works to help Hachiroku find her missing locomotive while trying to save his hometown from pollution.[1]

The majority of the story is set in Ohitoyo, a fictitious city in Kyushu split in half by the Kuma River. The town is largely based on the real city of Hitoyoshi in Kumamoto.

Characters

[edit]

Visual novel

[edit]
Sōtetsu Migita (右田 双鉄, Migita Sōtetsu)
Voiced by: Ei Mochizuki (credited as Ki Kashino in visual novels)

Adopted son of a family of brewers. Was the victim of a railway accident of which he was the only survivor in his family. Sōtetsu later acts as Hibiki's secretary after she assumes her position as mayor. His maiden name is Sogō.

Hachiroku (ハチロク, Hachiroku)
Voiced by: Atsumi Tanezaki (credited as Hana Kiritani in visual novels)

Raillord accidentally awoken by Sōtetsu, having been stowed away in a display case for a long time. Speaks in a very refined and formal tone. She personifies the JGR Class 8620 2-6-0 Mogul-type steam locomotive, specifically, number 8620, the lead member of her class. In one of the sub-endings, Sōtetsu confesses to Hachiroku; despite her initial reservations they agree to get married, with Hachiroku given the married name of Suzu Migita (右田 铃, Migita Suzu).

Hachiroku also appears in the anime, but is unvoiced.

Hibiki Migita (右田 日々姫, Migita Hibiki)
Voiced by: Maki Tomonaga (credited as Himari in visual novels)

Stepsister of Sōtetsu who is also an aspiring artist. Noted as being very optimistic. Her speech often slips into a Kumamoto drawl; she will then attempt to correct it back into a more refined tone which she uses "as she is now older". She subsequently becomes the mayor of Ohitoyo. In the future, she becomes a locomotive designer.

Paulette Hinai (雛衣・ポーレット, Hinai Pōretto)
Voiced by: Kei Maeda (credited as Sanma Aji in visual novels)

Mayor of Ohitoyo and operator and caretaker of Reina. Noted as being very timid and is of Franc descent. Due to a harassment incident at a city council meeting involving an outside heckler, Paulette resigns as mayor of Ohitoyo due to the pressure; she then acts as a mentor for Hibiki after the latter takes up her position. In the official canon of the story, Sōtetsu and Paulette marry; she later gives birth to a daughter named Hikari.

Reina (れいな, Reina)
Voiced by: Mai Kadowaki (credited as Mitsu Anzu in visual novels)

Raillord always noted as being in the company of Paulette. She is the personification of the JNR KiHa 07 series (ja) diesel railcar. Speaks extremely slowly and in a fashion similar to that of a toddler. Reina also appears in the anime, but is unvoiced.

Makura Migita (右田 真闇, Migita Makura)
Voiced by: Kei Mizusawa (credited as Rino Kawashima in visual novels)

Sōtetsu's adoptive older sister and the owner of the Migitachi Brewery. Speaks with a heavy Kumamoto drawl, has a very shapely figure and has a very sisterly personality.

Kisaki Hōshō (宝生 稀咲, Hōshō Kisaki)
Voiced by: Akane Sanada (credited as Akane Ueda in visual novels)

Daughter of the owner of the Kumamoto Bank as well as a branch manager for the Ohitoyo branch. Noted as being the first to discover Hibiki's talent and is regarded as a "reliable senpai". Is very shrewd and astute. Once Hibiki assumes her position as mayor, Kisaki acts as one of her assistants; in one of the sub-endings, Sōtetsu confesses to Kisaki and they agree to get married.

Nagi Minokasa (蓑笠 凪, Minokasa Nagi)
Voiced by: Yotsuba Yagami (credited as Yayoi Hayase in visual novels)

An young tomboyish girl of who is very interested in swordplay. Acts as the poster girl for the Minakasa blacksmith shop. In the future, she becomes the assistant to a railway engineer.

Fukami Hayase (早瀬 ふかみ, Hayase Fukami)
Voiced by: Mai Nagai (credited as Emi Sakura in visual novels)

An young girl of similar age to Nagi who manages the Kuma River Rafts. Is an introvert and often requires Nagi, her best friend, to speak for her. In the future, she becomes the manager of the Kuma River Rafts.

Minoru Minokasa (蓑笠 穣, Minokasa Minoru)
Voiced by: Daisuke Sugiyama (credited as Makoto Sakura in visual novels)

A blacksmith who is the owner of the Minakasa blacksmith shop and Nagi's grandfather. Is noted as one of the few people remaining who has the skill to repair locomotives.

Kiyoharu Akai (赤井 清春, Akai Kiyoharu)
Voiced by: Yukimasa Obi (credited as Izuru Mutsu in visual novels)

Head priest of a local shrine. Is often speculated to have had some experience in the operation of railroads.

Yubi Toro (登呂結比, Toro Yubi)
Voiced by: Konomi Moriyama (credited as Haruno Shioka in visual novels)

An elderly woman who is the owner of the Tororuyu public bathhouse. Is said to have been a technician of the Imperial Railroad in the past. She was previously credited under the moniker of "Tororuyu Owner (登呂流湯主人, Tororyūyu Shujin)".

Mototada Hōshō (宝生 元忠, Hōshō Mototada)
Voiced by: Kōichi Sōma (credited as Kengo Nishioka in visual novels)

Father of Kisaki Hōshō and president of the Kumamoto Bank. His wealth allows him to have great influence over numerous things.

Navi (ナビ, Nabi)
Voiced by: Reiko Anzai

Sentient navigation system of Sōtetsu's Aircra. Hachiroku was initially hostile towards her but slowly warmed up.

Nagare Hayase (早瀬 流, Hayase Nagare)
Voiced by: Seiichirō Konno (credited as Makoto Tono in visual novels)

Fukami's grandfather; he used to be the leading crewman of the Kuma River Rafts. In retirement, he works voluntarily for the railroad as a patrolman and performs track maintenance.

Seki Hayase (早瀬 堰, Hayase Seki)
Voiced by: Ryō Sugisaki

One of Fukami's grand uncles. In retirement, he works voluntarily for the railroad as a patrolman and performs track maintenance.

Osamu Hayase (早瀬 治, Hayase Osamu)

One of Fukami's grand uncles. In retirement, he works voluntarily for the railroad as a patrolman and performs track maintenance.

Kagetsu Urakami (浦上香月, Urakami Kagetsu)
Voiced by: Asami Nakamura (credited as Mao Tachibana in visual novels)

Employee of an Aircra factory in Ohitoyo. Currently works at the Ohitoyo Branch of the Kumamoto Bank as Kisaki's secretary and personal assistant. Her androgynous appearance often leads her to be mistaken for a man.

Unzan Nagayama (永山 雲山, Nagayama Unzan)

Head priest of the Eizanji ghost temple. Tends to avoid advice given to him.

Noriko Nagayama (永山 典子, Nagayama Noriko)
Voiced by: Nanae Sakurai (credited as Rie Hoshika in visual novels)

Wife of the head priest of the Eizanji ghost temple. Formerly worked as kitchen staff on the Imperial Railroad; runs a crêpe and pastry shop in Ohitoyo in retirement.

Michiko Sogō (十川 路子, Sogō Michiko)
Voiced by: Tomosa Muruta (credited as Chika Ashiwara in visual novels)

Twin sister of Sōtetsu who died in a railway accident of which the latter was the only survivor in the family. Apparently not fully aware that she has died, she continuously wanders the trains around the area as a ghost.

Niiroku (ニイロク, Niiroku)
Voiced by: Yukina Fujimori (2016 – 2017), Rin Osawa (2018 – present, credited as Yumu Akatsuki in visual novels)

A long-disused Raillord manufactured near the end of the Imperial Railway's existence. She is the personification of the JNR 181 series electric multiple unit, with her name being taken from the KuHa 26 control cars. Has a very aloof personality and speaks with a monotonous tone but has long desired to return to service. In her first few appearances, she obscures her face with white bandages. She later comes under the ownership of Akai.

Kon (コン, Kon)
Voiced by: Airi Ishihara (credited as Yui Ogura in visual novels)

A red fox which wanders around Ohitoyo Station. Communicates using yips.

Honoka Saitō (斎藤 帆香, Saitō Honoka)
Voiced by: Kumiko Nakane

Head brewer of the Migitachi Brewery. Speaks with a heavy Kumamoto drawl and recognized Hibiki's artistic talents from a young age.

Iyori Miyamoto (永山 雲山, Miyamoto Iyori)

Long-standing employee of the Ohitoyo Municipal Council. Reliable and well-respected, she has been active in the town's affairs since Paulette's father was mayor.

Olivi (オリヴィ, Oribui)
Voiced by: Chiyo Ousaki (credited as Komachi Shirai in visual novels)
Olivi's basis Baldwin No. 9 at Meiji-mura

A young-looking raillord imported from the United States, operating for over a hundred years on the Mikan Railway. She is the personification of the Fuji Minobu Class 1 0-6-0T steam locomotive, a copy of the JGR Class 1240 (ja) steam locomotive. She represents locomotive number 9 built by Baldwin.

Jinroku Munakata (宗方 甚六, Munakata Jinroku)
Voiced by: Ichirō Shōwa

Olivi's former engineer who worked with her on the Hiso Mikan Railway. Stoic, serious and a man of few words.

Hikari Migita (右田 ひかり, Migita Hikari)
Voiced by: Haruka Takagi (credited as Chiharu Umeki in visual novels)

Daughter of Sōtetsu and Paulette. Extremely shy.

Hiyoko (ひよこ, Hiyoko)
Voiced by: Juri Nagatsuma (credited as Ion Momoyama in visual novels)
C57 135 - the locomotive Hiyoko represents

A raillord acting as the director of a railway museum in Hinomoto, working to uncover the process behind the manufacture of raillords. She is the personification of the JNR Class C57 4-6-2 Pacific-type steam locomotive. She represents locomotive number C57 145.


Mori Geishū (芸州毛利, Geishū Mori)
Voiced by: Ai Fukada (credited as Saori Yukito in visual novels)

Owner and director of the Mori Electric Railway and a heiress of the Mori noble family. She has been using her wealth and standing to revitalize the rail transport economy in Hinomoto. Often credited as "Train Princess (電車姫, Densha Hime)"

Mikuro (みくろ, Mikuro)
Voiced by: Mari Kirimura (credited as Kirika Waō in visual novels)

A heterochromic raillord acting as a parts donor for Hachiroku, living a quiet life in retirement as a display piece in a zoo. Similar to Hachiroku, she is a personification of the JGR Class 8620 2-6-0 Mogul-type steam locomotive; she however is a personification of number 38696.

Suika (西瓜, Suika)
Voiced by: Ayaka Igasaki

A raillord who works on the Nakakuni National Railway. Fluent in Japanese and with a vast knowledge of railroad operations, she is very kind and always eager to learn more. She is the personification of the China Railway DF4 electric locomotive, representing locomotive 4 2000.

Suika also appears in the first season of the anime, also voiced by Igasaki.

Liu Zhihuan (劉 志寰, Ryū Shikan)
Voiced by: Ryō Azuma (credited as Rio Raiba in visual novels)

A young engineer on the Nakakuni National Railway and Suika's current driver; his father was Suika's previous driver. Has a crush on Suika.

Jiang Yehuang (姜 叶煌, Kyō Yōkō)
Voiced by: Kanoko

Secretary of the Deputy Director of the Railway Department of the Nakakuni State Council. A friend of Kisaki, she invites Sōtetsu over to Nakakuni to help with revitalizing the railway network there.

No. 19
Voiced by: Ren Ke (credited as Kokomi in visual novels)

A raillord who works on the Baiwa Railway. Living a leisurely life with the flora and fauna of the area, she takes Sōtetsu and his friends on a sightseeing trip around Nakakuni. She is the personification of the Jiayang Coal Railway Class ZM16-4-C2 0-8-0 steam locomotive, representing locomotive 19.

Konta Gotō (後藤 塊太, Gotō Konta)

High-ranking individual of the Ohitoyo Railway. Has a strong will and is willing to do whatever it takes to get him to the top.

Chikage Nakamura (中村 千景, Nakamura Chikage)

Nagi's friend and rival, seeking to outdo her in most things. Always prepared, her results are consistent.

Anime

[edit]
Suzushiro (すずしろ)
Voiced by: Sumire Uesaka

Personification of the JNR Class C12 2-6-2T Prairie-type steam locomotive. She represents steam locomotive C12 67. Noted as eloquent and capable of leading.

Ran (ラン)
Voiced by: Aya Uchida

Personification of the JNR Class D51 2-8-2 Mikado-type steam locomotive. She represents steam locomotive D51 840. Confident and passionate.

Kiko (汽子)
Voiced by: Aya Suzaki

Personification of the JGR HoJi 6005 series steam railcar. She represents steam railcar HoJi 6016. Kiko is noted as being refined and partakes in luxurious activities.

Beni (紅)
Voiced by: Tomoyo Kurosawa

Personification of the Kagoshima Kotsu KiHa 100 series diesel railcar. She represents diesel railcar KiHa 101. Highly competitive.

Riiko (りいこ)
Voiced by: Yurika Kubo

Personification of the Tobu Railway Class B1 4-4-0 American-type steam locomotive. She represents locomotive number 5. She is lazy, aloof and lacks any form of attention span.

Iyo (いよ)
Voiced by: Ai Furihata

Personification of the Iyo Railway Class Kō 1 0-4-0WT steam locomotive. She represents locomotive number 1. She has a laid-back and friendly personality.

Kakaa (かかあ)
Voiced by: Mai Nagai

Personification of the Jōmō Electric Railway DeHa 100 series electric railcar. She represents locomotive DeHa 101. Has a motherly personality and is often very busy.

Shirogane (しろがね)
Voiced by: Chihiro Kamijo

Personification of the JNR Class EF10 electric locomotive. She represents locomotive EF10 23. Very reserved; it often seems like she is in her own world.

Kaniko (かにこ)
Voiced by: Rie Tanaka

Personification of the JNR Class C11 2-6-4T Adriatic-type steam locomotive. She represents steam locomotive C11 202. Noted as clumsy, but eager to learn. She has a deep love for her railway.

Noire (ノワール)
Voiced by: Aya Yamane

Personification of the JNR Class 9600 2-8-0 Consolidation-type steam locomotive. She represents steam locomotive 29612. Quiet, serious and with a penchant for crying. Noted for her high fuel consumption.

Nako (なこ)
Voiced by: Miyuri Shimabukuro

Personification of the JNR Class DD51 diesel-hydraulic locomotive. She represents locomotive DD51 75. Curt and tends to speak her mind and is usually criticized for doing so, but is noted as being an idealist. Often researches about the latest technology.

Torako (とらこ)
Voiced by: Rina Hidaka

Personification of the Kagoshima City Tram 500 series streetcar. She represents locomotive 512. Converted into a maintenance of way vehicle used to water the sides of the track to wash away volcanic ash (similar to the real No. 512), she has a single-tracked mind, being hard to sway her when she is set on something.

Kiriko (切子)
Voiced by: Azusa Tadokoro

Personification of the JNR Class C51 4-6-2 Pacific-type steam locomotive. She represents steam locomotive C51 67. Has a very shapely appearance; tries to make work fun due to past experiences.

Umi (海)
Voiced by: Kaede Hondo

Personification of the JNR KiHa 58 series diesel railcar. She represents railcar KiHa 58 568. Has blue eyes due to an apparent manufacturing defect; she loves anything and everything relating to the sea.

Mumumu (むむむ)
Voiced by: Tomori Kusunoki

Personification of the JNR Class D60 2-8-4 Berkshire-type steam locomotive. She represents steam locomotive D60 66. Dresses like a detective and is noted for her ability to find lost things without fail.

Anime

[edit]

Rail Romanesque, an anime spinoff of Maitetsu featuring new characters, aired from October 3 to December 19, 2020, on Tokyo MX and other channels.[6][8][b] The series was animated by the studio Saetta, and it was directed by Hisayoshi Hirasawa.[9] The production held a crowdfunding campaign in July 2020.[9] In September 2020, Tenka Hashimoto, who was initially cast to play the character Shirogane, stepped down from her role following professional controversy; she was replaced by Chihiro Kamijō.[10]

On December 12, 2020, a second season was announced.[4]

Two years later on October 7, 2022, during the Lose Last Concert in Tokyo Dome City Hall, another announcement regarding the second season was made, officially being titled Rail Romanesque 2. Kaniko and four other raillords including a JNR Class 9600, JGR Class C51 and JNR Class D60 were revealed, with the announcement ending with the airing year to be 2023, though a month and date were not revealed. On July 13, 2023, it was announced that the second season would air in October 2023, with animation production by Yokohama Animation Laboratory and Cloud Hearts.[7] It aired from October 6 to December 29, 2023, on Tokyo MX and other channels.[11]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Maitetsu

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Maitetsu (Japanese: まいてつ) is a developed by the Japanese studio Lose and first released for Windows on March 25, 2016. The story is set in the fictional nation of Hinomoto, an alternate version of where railways have long been the primary mode of transportation, and humanoid androids called "Raillords" serve as control modules for locomotives. An English localization by followed on June 29, 2018, via platforms such as . The narrative centers on protagonist Migita Soutetsu, who returns to his rural hometown of Ohitoyo amid economic decline and a proposed aerocraft that threatens the local heritage. To revitalize the town, Soutetsu awakens and befriends a Raillord named Hachiroku, embarking on efforts to restore the abandoned railway line while navigating political and social challenges. The game blends genres including adventure, drama, and slice-of-life elements, with themes of technology, tradition, and , and features branching routes focused on different characters and locomotives. Maitetsu has spawned several adaptations and sequels, including the 18+ Maitetsu: Last Run!! released in 2020, and ports to consoles such as the under the title Maitetsu: Pure Station in 2020. It was adapted into a two-season television series titled Rail Romanesque (2020, produced by Saetta) and Rail Romanesque 2 (2023, produced by ), licensed in English by . The game has earned a dedicated following in the community.

Visual novel

Gameplay

Maitetsu is structured as a traditional , featuring a common route that introduces the core narrative and setting before branching into heroine-specific paths. The game includes three main routes centered on primary heroines such as Hachiroku, Hibiki, and Paulette, alongside shorter sub-routes for secondary characters like Reina, Makura, Kisaki, Nagi, and Fukami, culminating in a final overarching route unlocked after completing the others. Player choices throughout the story influence affection levels with characters and determine progression through the routes, leading to multiple endings per path based on decisions made, such as favoring specific heroines early in the common route. The routing system is straightforward, typically involving a single pivotal choice to select a preferred heroine, which locks in the subsequent storyline while allowing minor decisions to affect outcomes and unlock variations. The game incorporates full Japanese voice acting for all characters, including the , enhancing immersion through professional performances. It utilizes the E-mote system to provide animated sprites with dynamic expressions and movements during dialogue and events, adding liveliness to interactions. Localized versions support dual-language text display in English and Japanese for , and include a scene selection feature to facilitate replayability and exploration of different paths without restarting from the beginning. Train-themed elements are integrated narratively, where players manage locomotives and interact with Raillords—humanoid entities that control cars—as part of character development and story advancement, though the gameplay lacks dedicated mechanics like real-time or operational controls. These aspects emphasize thematic of restoration and operations within the format rather than mechanical .

Plot

Maitetsu is set in the fictional nation of Hinomoto, an alternate post-war where railways form the backbone of transportation and society, with having been largely supplanted by diesel and aerocraft technologies following environmental and economic shifts. The narrative centers on the town of Ohitoyo, a once-thriving community now facing decline due to pollution and industrial encroachment, where entities known as Raillords—personified control modules for locomotives—embody the legacy of rail travel. In this world, the rediscovery of historical engines like the 8620 symbolizes efforts to reclaim cultural and ecological heritage against modern industrialization. The protagonist, Migita Sōtetsu, returns to his hometown of Ohitoyo after learning of plans to build an aerocraft factory along a vital river, which threatens to pollute the water and undermine the local shochu run by his adoptive . Orphaned young by a rail accident and raised in the Migita household, Sōtetsu encounters the Raillord Hachiroku, the personification of the long-lost 8620 locomotive, sparking his initiative to revive the dormant local railway line as a means of economic and environmental salvation. This revival effort highlights initial conflicts, including the town's division over progress versus preservation and the challenges of restoring steam operations in a diesel-dominated era. The story unfolds through a common route that establishes the world-building, introduces key relationships, and builds tension around Ohitoyo's fate, before branching into individual routes that delve into the personal growth of various heroines and the broader community revival. These paths emphasize themes of nostalgia for a bygone era of rail travel, against unchecked development, deep bonds between humans and Raillords, and romantic connections that intertwine with the collective goal of reinstating steam-powered journeys. Culminating in communal endeavors to operationalize the railway, the narrative underscores resilience and harmony in a train-centric society striving for renewal.

Characters

The characters in Maitetsu are central to the visual novel's , blending human figures with anthropomorphic Raillords—humanoid androids designed to control and bond with locomotives, drawing from historical Japanese designs for thematic depth. These Raillords embody the game's fusion of technology and nostalgia, often reflecting the personalities and operational traits of their associated train classes. The protagonist, Migita Sōtetsu, is an orphaned university student and aspiring engineer who was adopted into the Migita family, owners of a in the town of Ohitoyo following a childhood railway accident that claimed his biological family. Passionate about , he returns home to combat an aerocraft factory's threat to local water sources and accidentally awakens the Raillord Hachiroku, becoming her owner and driver in efforts to revive the town's heritage. Sōtetsu is depicted as altruistic, pragmatic, stoic, and mature, though he struggles with low stemming from his past trauma. He is voiced by Kashino Ki. The main heroines revolve around Sōtetsu's relationships and the railway revival. Hachiroku, the primary Raillord, is a cheerful and energetic anthropomorphic representation of a former Imperial Railway Class 8620 , characterized by her loyalty, genius-level intellect in mechanical matters, and deredere affection toward her owner. As a diminutive, black-haired girl with distinctive hair loopies symbolizing her train heritage, she grieves her "lost" body after years in storage and works tirelessly to reunite with it, aiding Sōtetsu's endeavors with unyielding optimism. Voiced by Kiritani Hana, her route emphasizes themes of rediscovery and partnership. Migita Hibiki, Sōtetsu's energetic adoptive younger and a high student, exhibits a fiery, competitive personality marked by toward her older Makura and talkative enthusiasm for and . With short and a tomboyish demeanor, she supports Hachiroku's quest as a childhood friend and occasional assistant, her route exploring bonds and personal growth amid Ohitoyo's challenges. She is voiced by Himari. Hinai Paulette, the young and elegant of Ohitoyo from a wealthy , is a shy yet serious dedicated to preserving the town's railway traditions against modernization threats. Blonde and refined, she operates the KiHa-07 diesel with her Raillord partner Reina, displaying timid altruism in her leadership role. Her route highlights political and historical railway advocacy. Voiced by Aji Sanma, she embodies the visual novel's blend of historical accuracy and character-driven drama. Supporting characters enrich the ensemble with ties to Ohitoyo's community and railways. Reina, Paulette's easygoing and naive Raillord partner, is an energetic anthropomorphization of the KiHa-07 , serving as a conductor with deredere loyalty and assisting in operational tasks. Voiced by Anzu Mitsu, she provides and practical support. Migita Makura, Sōtetsu's mature and refined adoptive older sister, is a kind painter who harbors quiet affection for him, offering emotional backing without direct involvement. Voiced by Kawashima Rino, her presence underscores dynamics. Other figures, like the wise priest Kiyoharu with rumored railway ties, add cultural and historical layers to the supporting cast.

Development

Visual novel

Maitetsu was developed by the Japanese studio Lose, with direction by tO and character artwork by cura. The game utilizes the KiriKiri engine. Originally released as an 18+ title for Windows on March 25, 2016, it features animation for character expressions. Lose ceased new productions in 2020 and officially closed on October 7, 2022. An all-ages version was ported to and as Maitetsu: Pure Station in 2020.

Anime adaptations

The anime adaptations, titled Rail Romanesque (2020) and Rail Romanesque 2 (2023), were produced as promotional shorts based on the . The first season was animated by Saetta, with chief direction by Hisayoshi Hirasawa, series composition by Kouichi Motomura, character designs by Takayuki Noguchi, and music by Youichi Sakai. It consists of 12 three-minute episodes, funded partly through in July 2020, and aired from October to December 2020. A cast change occurred in September 2020, with Chihiro Kamijō replacing as Hachiroku. The second season was animated by and Cloud Hearts, directed by Michiru Ebira, and aired 13 three-minute episodes from October to December 2023. Both seasons were licensed in by for English release.

Release

Original visual novel

The original Maitetsu was developed and published by Lose for Windows on March 25, 2016, in as an 18+ featuring adult erotic content integrated into its narrative. A bundled limited edition, titled Maitetsu & Monobeno Nakayoshi Set, released simultaneously and included the base game alongside Lose's prior titles Monobeno -Happy End! and its MORE SMILE! DLC expansions, marketed as a collector's package for fans of the developer's works. This initial PC release established the game's animation style and railway-themed story, with physical copies distributed through retail channels in at a standard price of around 7,800 yen. Censored all-ages ports of the , retitled Maitetsu: Pure Station to reflect the removal of erotic elements, expanded availability to consoles starting in 2018. The version launched first in on July 26, 2018, published by Views and supporting for enhanced viewing modes, priced at 6,800 yen for the standard edition. International releases followed for both and on January 16, 2020, handled by CIRCLE Entertainment, with the Switch edition emphasizing portable play and maintaining the all-ages content for broader audiences. Limited editions for these console versions often bundled extras like 1/6-scale figures of Hachiroku, multi-disc original soundtracks, and suede tapestries, available at premium prices up to 26,000 yen in . For global distribution, localized a censored, bilingual (English-Japanese) version for on June 29, 2018, adapting the original PC content for international players while preserving the core gameplay and story. Priced at $29.99 USD on launch, it supported multiple languages including Simplified and Traditional Chinese, facilitating wider accessibility across regions. An uncensored 18+ edition, restoring the original erotic scenes, was exclusively released digitally by in June 2018 as a paid download for existing owners, ensuring the adult-oriented experience remained available outside . A further 18+ digital re-release was published by on February 7, 2024.

Maitetsu: Last Run!!

Maitetsu: Last Run!! is an expanded re-release of the original Maitetsu , developed by Lose and published for Windows on October 30, 2020. This version integrates the core content from the 2016 original, additional material from console ports such as Maitetsu: Pure Station, and entirely new sequel routes for all heroines, effectively doubling the overall narrative scope with a total word count exceeding 2 million. The re-release was handled by HIKARI FIELD for international distribution, marking a comprehensive update aimed at consolidating and enhancing the franchise's storyline. Key additions include extended second halves for each main route, featuring post-revival stories that resolve lingering arcs from the original , such as the heroines' lives after key events like the revival of the Ohitoyo railway. These sequel routes provide deeper character development and closure for all primary heroines, including Hachiroku, Paulette, and others, while incorporating updated graphics for improved visual fidelity and full consumer-friendly content without the need for separate censorship patches. The enhancements ensure a seamless experience, blending the original's train-themed romance and drama with expanded emotional depth. The game is available on PC via , published by HIKARI FIELD, with bilingual support for English and Japanese, alongside options for Chinese and other languages through official releases and patches. Its total playtime has been extended to approximately 60 hours, reflecting the added routes and integrated content that make it equivalent to two full visual novels in length. Marketing for the title emphasized its role in completing unresolved elements from the original, billed as "Fall in with the -Last Run!!-" to highlight the enduring theme of anthropomorphic trains and heartfelt narratives. An all-ages console port titled Rail Romanesque Origin was released for and in on December 21, 2023, published by RaRo. A related DLC for the PC version, Maitetsu: Last Run!! - Rail Romanesque origin, followed on on July 26, 2024.

Anime adaptations

Rail Romanesque

Rail Romanesque is a short-form adaptation of the Maitetsu , serving as its first season and premiering in from October 3 to December 19, 2020, consisting of 12 episodes each approximately 4-5 minutes in length. The series aired on and other Japanese television networks, with English subtitles made available simultaneously on and starting from the premiere. The plot adapts the visual novel's core narrative by focusing on protagonist Migita Sōsetsu and the Railord Hachiroku as they contribute to the ongoing revival of the Ohitoyo railways in the post-war nation of Hinomoto, where anthropomorphic train engines play a key role in revitalization efforts. Set after the events of the original game, the story centers on the organization of the inaugural Maitetsu Festival, an event bringing together Railords—young women embodying historic locomotives—for competitions and promotions, emphasizing episodic vignettes that introduce supporting characters and highlight railway heritage rather than in-depth romantic developments from the source material. Due to its ultra-short format, the prioritizes visually striking sequences of in motion and world-building elements of Hinomoto's railway culture, such as festival preparations and train races, while omitting deeper explorations of individual character routes present in the . This structure allows for a lighthearted, promotional tone that showcases the charm of the Railords and their mechanical counterparts without delving into complex subplots.

Rail Romanesque 2nd Season

Rail Romanesque 2nd Season is the second television adaptation in the Rail Romanesque series, serving as a direct continuation of the 2020 first season. The season expands on the initial Raillord Summit storyline by delving further into the collaborative efforts of the anthropomorphic train girls, known as Raillords, to restore prominence across the fictional nation of Hinomoto through innovative ideas and interpersonal dynamics. It introduces several new Raillords, such as Kaniko (voiced by ) and others representing historical locomotives like the JNR Class 9600 and JGR Class , enhancing character development and group interactions while maintaining ties to the original Maitetsu visual novel's cast. Aired from October 6, 2023, to December 29, 2023, the comprises 13 short episodes, each running approximately 3 to 5 minutes. This compact format, consistent with the first , emphasizes episodic vignettes focused on revival challenges, lighthearted conflicts among the Raillords, and subtle advancements in their summit objectives, without extending into full-length narratives. The series premiered on Japanese networks including , with episodes broadcast weekly on Fridays. Internationally, streaming was limited, primarily available on AnimeOnegai for audiences in and . Production by and Cloud Hearts featured returning staff like director Michiru Ebira, alongside new character designs by Tensho Sato, contributing to refined depictions of train action sequences.

Reception

Visual novel

The visual novel Maitetsu received mixed reviews, with praise for its visual and technical achievements, particularly its high-quality artwork and E-mote live animation system, which brought characters to life with dynamic expressions and movements. Reviewers on Visual Novel Database (VNDB) highlighted the relaxing atmosphere created by the detailed landscape backgrounds and soothing soundtrack, often describing it as a cozy experience centered on themes of revival and community, though some criticized the story pacing and excessive train lore. The integration of train lore was commended by some for adding educational depth without overwhelming the narrative, contributing to strong individual character routes that explored emotional bonds and personal growth. On , Maitetsu holds a "Very Positive" rating based on 340 user reviews as of November 2025, with many commending the full for enhancing emotional delivery and the multiple routes for encouraging replayability. Users frequently noted the production values as standout, making it one of the more visually appealing visual novels available. Commercially, the title achieved solid niche performance on , where its regular price of $14.99 has seen discounts as low as $5.99, reflecting sustained interest and accessibility. This success prompted international ports to platforms like and , as well as the expanded release Maitetsu: Last Run!!. Fan responses emphasized appreciation for the nostalgic themes of preserving tradition amid modernization, evoking a sense of wistful connection to historical railways. However, some critiques pointed to the original routes feeling somewhat rushed in pacing and development, an issue later addressed through expansions in Last Run!!.

Anime adaptations

The anime adaptations of Maitetsu, known as Rail Romanesque and its second season, have received mixed to negative reception from audiences and critics, primarily due to their abbreviated format that diverges significantly from the detailed narrative and character development of the source visual novel. On IMDb, the series holds a 5.5/10 rating based on 68 user votes. Anime News Network user ratings are similarly modest, with 23 votes distributed as 1 masterpiece, 1 excellent, 5 good, 5 decent, and the remainder lower, indicating a niche but unremarkable appeal. MyAnimeList scores underscore this, with the first season at 5.17/10 (11,542 users) and the second at 5.57/10 (918 users) as of November 2025, where reviews often describe the content as "vibey but shallow" and criticize the short episodes as "pointless" for failing to capture the visual novel's depth. The first season of Rail Romanesque (2020) is frequently viewed as a promotional vehicle for the Maitetsu rather than a standalone , with its 12 three-minute episodes compressing complex plot elements into fragmented vignettes that confuse viewers unfamiliar with the source material. This brevity results in a lack of coherence, as reviewers note the story feels disjointed and underdeveloped compared to the visual novel's expansive world-building and character arcs. Positive feedback centers on the cute character designs and train-themed , which evoke the visual novel's charm, but these are overshadowed by criticisms of shallow execution and minimal depth, making it feel more like a teaser than a full . Rail Romanesque 2nd Season (2023), also consisting of 13 three-minute episodes, fares slightly better in some aspects due to added action elements and visuals but remains criticized for its confusing plot progression, which diverges further from the source by prioritizing episodic fluff over substantive . A DoubleSama highlights it as "even more confusing than the first ," faulting the lack of connection to prior events and the visual novel's lore, leading to low engagement despite minor improvements in pacing. While the of sequences receives appreciation for its visual appeal, the overall reception echoes one's issues, with audiences noting persistent shallowness that limits emotional investment. Commercially, both seasons experienced low viewership, evidenced by modest user rating counts across platforms and minimal buzz in anime communities, though the adaptations succeeded in generating some interest in the original visual novel as promotional tie-ins. No major awards were garnered, underscoring their niche status without broader industry recognition.

References

  1. https://vndb.org/v18131
  2. https://store.steampowered.com/app/714800/Maitetsu/
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  10. https://vndb.org/c42285
  11. https://vndb.org/v18131/cv
  12. https://vndb.org/c39202
  13. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2019-12-27/maitetsu-adult-game-gets-tv-anime-shorts-in-2020/.154848
  14. https://vndb.org/p1279
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  16. https://vndb.org/r44202
  17. https://www.pcgamingwiki.com/wiki/Maitetsu
  18. https://www.gematsu.com/2018/01/maitetsu-pure-station-launches-july-26-japan-adds-vr-viewer
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  23. https://vndb.org/v25635
  24. https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/282683-maitetsu-last-run/data
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  30. https://myanimelist.net/anime/40958/Rail_Romanesque
  31. https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/latest/2020/6/24/rail-romanesque-tv-anime-departs-the-station-in-fall-of-2020
  32. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-10-01/crunchyroll-to-stream-im-standing-on-a-million-lives-rail-romanesque-eagle-talon-~golden-spell~-anime/.164790
  33. https://rail-romanesque.fandom.com/wiki/Rail_Romanesque
  34. https://otakumode.com/otapedia/anime/autumn-2020-anime/Rail-Romanesque
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  36. https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/latest/2023/8/25/rail-romanesque-season-2-casts-eight-new-train-girls
  37. https://anidb.net/anime/15921
  38. https://myanimelist.net/anime/44583/Rail_Romanesque_2
  39. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2023-09-28/rail-romanesque-2-anime-streams-7-character-videos/.202929
  40. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=23897
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  46. https://doublesama.com/rail-romanesque-2/
  47. https://myanimelist.net/anime/44583/Rail_Romanesque_2/reviews
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