When a ballerina's dream ends due to injury, Rin Rindo's life takes an unexpected turn into the world of speed. HIGHSPEED Étoile, a 2024 Sci-Fi racing anime, takes us into a future where vehicles race at 500 km/h with AI systems and the 'Revolburst' mechanism that keeps you on the edge of your seat every second.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The story begins with Rin Rindo, a young woman who once dreamed of becoming a ballerina but had to stop dancing due to a foot injury. She becomes unemployed and spends her days playing games at her grandmother's house until one day she is pulled into the world of NEX Race, a high-level competition using advanced technology. Racing cars can reach speeds of 500 km/h with AI control systems and a special mechanism called 'Revolburst' that temporarily boosts power. Rin must adapt from a dancer to a rookie racer facing numerous obstacles and rivals.
During the races, Rin meets unique teammates and rivals, each with their own motivations and dreams. The series focuses on character growth and finding meaning in life through a winding path. Despite intense competition, the narrative emphasizes character development rather than mindless acceleration.
Performance and Characters
Fuka Izumi's voice acting as Rin Rindo conveys a wide range of emotions, from frustration when facing failure to determination behind the wheel. Supporting characters like Kanata Asakawa (voiced by Yoko Hikasa) and Towa Komachi (Shiori Izawa) add depth to the story. Although some characters seem stereotypical, the voice acting brings them to life. However, character development for some, especially rivals who appear only for a few episodes, is not deep enough.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
The visuals of HIGHSPEED Étoile are well-executed in racing scenes, with smooth CGI and camera angles that convey speed. The soundtrack by Elements Garden is exhilarating, enhancing the excitement in action scenes. However, some animation during downtime or everyday scenes appears stiff and uneven. The design of cars and the futuristic world is creative, but some details feel unrealistic.
Editorial Analysis
HIGHSPEED Étoile has an interesting concept of linking a shattered dream to an unexpected new path. The transition from ballerina to racer is a good metaphor for adaptation and discovering one's strengths. However, the pacing is slow at times, and the explanation of the 'Revolburst' system is unclear, causing confusion. Some races lack tension because the outcome is predictable. Despite its flaws, the series has its own charm, especially in focusing on character relationships and internal growth.
Verdict
HIGHSPEED Étoile is an anime suitable for those who enjoy character growth and racing that doesn't emphasize realism. If you're looking for a lighthearted, encouraging story without worrying about racing logic, give Rin and the NEX Race world a chance.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Innovative concept combining ballerina and racer
- +Voice acting and performance of main cast are well done
- +Racing scenes with beautiful CG and sense of speed
👎 Cons
- −Slow pacing and lack of tension in races
- −Some characters lack deep development
- −Revolburst system not explained in detail, causing confusion
Top Cast
FAQ
12 episodes in total, complete in one season.
Suitable for those who like light racing anime focusing on characters rather than techniques. If you expect excitement like Initial D, you may be disappointed.
It's about Rin, a former ballerina who becomes a racer in the NEX Race, which uses AI and Revolburst systems.
No announcement as of now (2024).
