The highly anticipated prequel anime film to Square Enix’s Starwing Paradox game, titled As One, has officially unveiled its theme song in a new trailer, building excitement for its upcoming theatrical release. The film, which serves as a feature-length theatrical prequel to the popular arcade game, is set to premiere in Japanese theaters on August 22, 2025.
“Meguriboshi”: The Film’s Haunting Melody
The newly released full trailer for As One offers an extensive preview of the film’s theme song, “Meguriboshi” (Wandering Star). This evocative track is performed by RUKI, the solo artist name of Ruki Shiroiwa, a prominent member of the popular JO1 boy group. Adding another layer to his involvement, Ruki Shiroiwa also lends his voice to the film’s protagonist, Yō. The song was written, composed, and self-produced by Shiroiwa.
A Deeper Dive into the Starwing Paradox Universe
As One expands upon the lore of the Starwing Paradox arcade game, which was originally developed by Square Enix and featured animation by Sunrise. The film is a completely original story, taking place 20 years prior to the events depicted in the game.
The Premise of As One
The narrative of As One centers on Yō, a high school student from present-day Earth. Yō struggles with parental opposition to his musical aspirations and growing tension within his band. His life takes an extraordinary turn when he suddenly hears a cry for help within his mind and is enveloped in a bright light.
Concurrently, on a distant planet named Meguriboshi, a robot mechanic named Rako experiences her own profound event. While attempting to manage a large piece of approaching space debris, Rako falls unconscious. During her unconscious state, she makes contact with Yō. Meguriboshi itself is a world engaged in a long-standing conflict between two countries over energy resources, though an uneasy truce is beginning to form. The intertwined destinies of Yō and Rako are central to the film’s plot, hinting at secrets about the “Realide,” the origins of “Aerial,” and the deep connection between Meguriboshi and Earth that were not fully revealed in the original game.
Key Creative and Voice Talent
The production team behind As One includes several notable figures in the anime industry. Kobun Shizuno, known for directing multiple Detective Conan films, is at the helm as the director. Character designs are handled by Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, celebrated for his work on iconic series such as Neon Genesis Evangelion and Summer Wars. Sadamoto also contributed to the character designs for the original Starwing Paradox game. The film is produced by Nada Holdings and Throne, with animation by Honoo and Studio Gooneys.
Beyond Ruki Shiroiwa as Yō, the main voice cast features Haruka Shiraishi as Rako, Shunsuke Takeuchi as Vigo, Yōko Hikasa as Kizana, and Ryūhei Maruyama as Rako’s father, Rurowa.
