Square Enix and Sunrise are collaborating to produce “As One,” a feature-length anime film serving as a prequel to the Starwing Paradox arcade game. The film is slated to premiere in Japan in Summer 2025.
A Prequel Story Set 20 Years Before the Game
“As One” will be set 20 years before the events of Starwing Paradox, offering a new story and expanding upon the game’s universe. The film aims to immerse both dedicated fans of the arcade game and newcomers alike. The story will center on the protagonist, Yoh, and explore mysteries not revealed in the original game, including the secret of Rearide, the birth of Aerial, and the relationship between Meguriboshi and Earth.
Stellar Creative Team
The film boasts a talented team:
- Director: Kobun Shizuno, known for directing multiple Detective Conan films.
- Character Designer: Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, the character designer of Neon Genesis Evangelion and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, is returning to redesign the characters for the movie.
Storyline Overview
The film’s protagonist is Yō, a high school student facing opposition from his parents regarding his musical aspirations and experiencing a disconnect from his bandmates. One day, he hears a voice calling for help and is enveloped by a bright light. Meanwhile, on the planet Meguriboshi, two warring countries begin an uneasy truce. Rako, a robot mechanic, encounters Yō while dealing with space debris.
Starwing Paradox Game Background
Starwing Paradox is a sci-fi arcade game developed by Square Enix that launched in Japan in November 2018 and ended service in October 2021. Sunrise handled the animation in the game. The game allows up to 16 players to engage in team-based battles, with the cabinet designed as a cockpit for immersive gameplay. The story unfolds on Meguriboshi, a planet distant from Earth.
