The popular anime series Shinkalion: Change the World has reached its conclusion, with the final episode, number 39, airing on February 2nd, 2025. This marks the end of the latest chapter in the Shinkalion franchise, which has captivated audiences with its unique blend of mecha action and railway themes.
Series Finale Airs, Popular Episodes to Follow
The official Shinkalion: Change the World X account announced that the series would conclude with its 39th episode. Following the finale, a selection of eight fan-favorite episodes will be broadcast starting February 9th, allowing viewers to relive some of the show’s most exciting moments. This final run of episodes signals the conclusion of the series’ broadcast on TV Tokyo and its affiliates, as well as on BS TV Tokyo.
A Look Back at “Shinkalion: Change the World”
Shinkalion: Change the World, which premiered on April 7th, 2024, is the third anime series in the Shinkalion franchise. It follows the story of Taisei Ōnari, a second-year junior high student who transfers to Shinkai Academy. Taisei is in search of clues regarding his missing older sister. Simultaneously, a mysterious enemy known as “Unknown” appears, leading the “Super Evolutionary Railway Development Organization” (ERDA) to develop the Shinkalion mecha, which transform from Shinkansen bullet trains.
Story and Themes
The series explores themes of friendship, growth, and the importance of protecting the world. The narrative skillfully weaves together personal struggles with high-stakes battles against the Unknown. It’s not just about mecha action, but also about the characters’ emotional journeys and their commitment to their cause. The series has been praised for its engaging plot, high-quality animation, and compelling characters. The story follows Taisei as he becomes a Shinkalion pilot and fights alongside his comrades to unravel the mysteries behind the Unknown and his sister’s disappearance.
Production and Visuals
Shinkalion: Change the World is directed by Kenichirō Komaya, with animation production handled by Signal.MD and Production I.G. Eiji Umehara oversaw the series scripts, with assistance from Daisuke Ishibashi. Character designs are by Shiori Asaka and Niina Morita, while Akira Kirishiki is the mechanical designer. Masafumi Mima is the sound director, and Yūgo Kanno composed the music.
The animation quality, particularly during battle sequences and Shinkalion transformations, has been praised for its high visual impact. The series also features detailed background art, enhancing the overall atmosphere and world-building. The transformation scenes are visually impressive, with consistent use of color and themes adding to the series’ unique appeal.
Music and Sound
The opening theme song, “Senkō Hayabusa,” is performed by GRe4N BOYZ. The ending themes are “HOPE!HOPE!HOPE!” by meiyo, “KO.DA.MA.” by THE ALFEE, and “Seagull” by Sayaka Yamamoto. Each of these songs features a different bullet train motif that is in line with the Shinkalion theme.
Characters and Their Development
While the series features a wide array of characters, some have particularly captured the attention of viewers:
- Taisei Ōnari: The main protagonist, a second-year junior high student seeking answers about his sister and becoming a Shinkalion pilot. His growth and determination throughout the series are a key focus.
- Other Shinkalion Drivers: Including characters like Ryota and Akane, each with their unique personalities and motivations. The series continues to introduce new drivers, including Tsukumo Umikaze, who brings a unique energy to the team.
- Reiji and Ina: Two characters whose backstories and motivations were explored, adding depth to the series’ narrative and exploring the history of ERDA.
- Vina: A character whose actions towards the series’ end create new conflicts, forcing Taisei and others to confront the underlying causes of the main story.
Character development is a significant strength of the series, with each character contributing to the overall narrative.
Impact and Fan Reception
The show has been well-received both domestically and internationally. It’s been recognized for its engaging characters, high-quality animation, and compelling storylines. The series blends mecha action with the unique theme of transforming bullet trains, creating a fresh experience for fans. Viewers have taken to platforms like MyAnimeList to praise the show’s animation and character designs, while anime critics have highlighted the storytelling and overall visual appeal. The series is considered a solid addition to the mecha and action genres, with its ability to draw in and move its audience.
Evolution from Previous Series
Shinkalion: Change the World made several changes from previous entries in the franchise:
- Age of Drivers: The main characters, particularly the Shinkalion drivers, are in their early teens rather than pre-teens, as seen in past seasons.
- Uniforms: The drivers now wear more conventional uniforms instead of the bodysuits from previous series.
- Vehicle Integration: Non-rail vehicles have a more prominent role in this series.
- Shinkalion Design: The Shinkalions are now single-car units, while previous versions primarily featured two-car formations. They also have more control room-style cockpits than the void-like cockpits of previous generations.
These changes added a fresh dynamic to the series, while maintaining the core appeal of the Shinkalion universe.
Legacy of the Shinkalion Franchise
The Shinkalion franchise, which started as a toy line by Takara Tomy in 2015, has expanded into a significant transmedia property. It includes not only the anime series, but also manga adaptations and video games. This franchise has introduced unique ideas and concepts, drawing inspiration from classic mecha series while maintaining its unique identity. The original Shinkalion anime premiered in 2018, and the franchise also includes the anime film, Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion the Movie: The Mythically Fast ALFA-X That Came From Future. A second anime series, Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion Z, aired from 2021 to 2022 before Shinkalion: Change the World in 2024.
The franchise has successfully blended mecha action with the unique theme of transforming bullet trains. It’s resonated with both children and adults, with its focus on compelling stories and character-driven narratives, along with thrilling action scenes.
Final Thoughts
With the conclusion of Shinkalion: Change the World, fans bid farewell to this particular chapter in the franchise. The series has contributed to the enduring legacy of the Shinkalion universe, leaving viewers with a story of courage, friendship, and the constant battle against adversity. The broadcast of fan-favorite episodes will allow viewers to reflect on the series and appreciate the journey once again.
