Dr. Stone’s “Science Future” arc continues with episode 11, “Those Who Know the Rules; Those Who Make Them,” delivering on its promises of action and suspense. The episode, which premiered on March 20, 2025, showcases intense aerial battles, submarine invasions, and strategic twists, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats with a strong cliffhanger.
Aerial Dogfight: Senku and Ryusui vs. Stanley
The episode’s main highlight is the aerial dogfight between Ryusui and Senku, piloting a commandeered plane, and Stanley, Dr. Xeno’s skilled U.S. Air Force pilot. Despite being novices in aerial combat, Ryusui and Senku utilize their scientific knowledge and unpredictable tactics to challenge Stanley’s expertise.
Science as a Weapon
Senku’s ingenuity shines as he employs acetylene gas to stall Stanley’s plane, demonstrating how science can be a simple yet effective weapon. This exemplifies a core theme of Dr. Stone: even in the Stone Age, the power of science can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. The aerial battle is further enhanced by electric rock music reminiscent of “Top Gun,” adding a layer of style and energy to the scene.
Ryusui’s Maverick Tactics
Ryusui’s unconventional thinking proves to be a valuable asset in the dogfight. His tactics don’t necessarily have to be superior to Stanley’s, they just need to be unexpected, showcasing the importance of adaptability in warfare.
Submarine Surprise: Xeno’s Counterattack
As the aerial battle intensifies, Dr. Xeno unveils his secret weapon: a submarine. This unexpected move significantly raises the stakes, as the submarine silently approaches the Perseus, launching a ground counterattack.
Tense Invasion
The submarine’s undetected journey towards the Perseus creates a tense atmosphere, culminating in a thrilling battle as Xeno’s soldiers board the ship. This multi-layered conflict, with simultaneous aerial and naval engagements, keeps viewers engaged and amplifies the episode’s excitement.
Kingdom of Science Under Siege
Xeno’s soldiers, armed with guns, pose a significant threat to the Kingdom of Science members on board the Perseus. However, warriors like Moz and Matsukaze, trained in traditional combat, use their skills and fearlessness to surprise the overconfident soldiers.
Double Checkmate: Tsukasa and Kohaku Corner Xeno
Simultaneously with the events unfolding on the Perseus and in the air, Tsukasa and Kohaku emerge from their tunnel, cornering a defenseless Dr. Xeno in his base. This creates a double checkmate situation, where both sides hold a critical advantage, leaving the episode’s outcome uncertain.
The Power of Underestimation
Tsukasa and Kohaku’s success highlights the dangers of underestimating one’s opponents. Xeno, focused on the aerial and naval battles, fails to anticipate the ground assault, ultimately leading to his capture.
Stalemate and Negotiation
With both sides holding key hostages, the episode concludes with a tense stalemate. The fate of Senku, Xeno, and their respective teams hangs in the balance, setting the stage for potential negotiations or further conflict in the upcoming episodes.
Production Value and Narrative Twists
Episode 11 receives praise for its stellar production value, with smart visual and audio design enhancing the impact of the war arc’s events. The animation of the aerial combat is particularly noteworthy, effectively conveying the speed and complexity of the dogfight.
Unreliable Narrator?
One criticism of the episode is the use of an unreliable narrator during the dogfight sequence. The audience hears Stanley’s voice when the enemy pilot is speaking, creating a misleading impression. While this twist is intended to mirror the manga’s narrative reveal, it undermines the credibility of the anime’s portrayal, potentially confusing viewers.
Final Thoughts
Despite some minor narrative flaws, “Those Who Know the Rules; Those Who Make Them” is a highly satisfying and exciting episode of Dr. Stone: Science Future. The aerial combat, submarine invasion, and strategic twists create a captivating viewing experience, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the resolution of the cliffhanger ending. The episode’s themes of scientific ingenuity, unconventional tactics, and the dangers of underestimation further enrich the narrative, solidifying Dr. Stone’s unique blend of science and adventure.
The episode is directed by a team at TMS Entertainment, lead by Shuhei Matsushita, with the musical score composed by Tatsuya Kato, Hiroaki Tsutsumi and Yukihiro Kanesaka. Minami Hinata joins the cast as Charlotte.
Dr. Stone: Science Future is available for streaming on Crunchyroll, with both subbed and dubbed versions available. The final episode of the first cour is scheduled for release on March 27, 2025.
