The second chapter of the yuri sci-fi robot anime, Volicia of Pluto, is set to premiere on April 21st, promising to expand on the captivating story introduced in its first installment. A new trailer has been released, offering a glimpse into the world and characters that have garnered attention within the anime community.
A New Chapter Emerges
The upcoming chapter, titled Bōsei no Volicia: Dai Nishō: Gunjō (Volicia of Pluto: Chapter 2: Ultramarine), boasts a runtime of 42 minutes and carries a PG12 rating. This suggests a continuation of the themes and narrative depth established in the first chapter, while potentially exploring more mature content.
A special screening event, including stage greetings, is scheduled to take place at Animate Theater in Tokyo on May 5th, providing fans with an opportunity to experience the new chapter on the big screen and engage with the creators.
What is Volicia of Pluto?
Volicia of Pluto is an independent anime project created by AsH, a 23-year-old animator who serves as the director, editor, scriptwriter, animator, and cinematographer. The music is composed by nagiha, with sound effects by Kona a.k.a. Fukutarau. Zerogosha is credited with production cooperation.
The anime is set in 2006 and revolves around Akio Hoshigami, a young girl who is forced to abandon her dreams of becoming a track and field athlete due to a leg injury. Along with her best friend, Ayano Umisoe, Akio enters high school, where she gradually begins to rediscover herself. However, one day, Ayano suddenly disappears, setting the stage for the unfolding mystery.
The series has garnered attention for its combination of yuri (girl-love), sci-fi, and robot elements. The first episode was released on July 9, 2023, and was available for streaming on YouTube with English and Japanese subtitles for a limited time.
The Story So Far
The initial installment introduces Akio and Ayano as they grapple with their individual struggles. Akio feels lost after losing her athletic aspirations, while Ayano carries a heavy burden related to her destiny. Their meeting sparks a connection, hinting at a deeper relationship.
Volicia of Pluto draws inspiration from Yukikaze, Muv-Luv, and Soukyuu no Fafner. It explores themes of identity, friendship, and the challenges of overcoming adversity in a world filled with mystery and technological advancement.
Characters and Cast
The anime features a cast of characters, each with their own role to play in the unfolding story:
- Akio Hoshigami, voiced by Mahiro Kusaka
- Ayano Umisoe, voiced by Miho Mashiro
- Sora Yamada, voiced by Rinka Haruse
- Honoka Satō, voiced by Natsuki Ochiai
- Shiori Aratae, voiced by Miku Ichinose
- Hoshi no Sadame (Fate of the Planet), voiced by Yūto Arai
- Kasumi Yamabe, voiced by Yuna Hachiman
- Miko 2, voiced by Yūdai Noda
- Miko 3, voiced by Yui Hayashi
- Miko 4, voiced by Karin Sakuragi
Music
Marica (Funczion SOUNDS) performs the opening theme song “Rensei no Shiori (A Verse on Binary Stars),” which was scored and arranged by Masahiro Inada of Alchemy+.
Yuri Anime: A Growing Genre
Volicia of Pluto contributes to the growing landscape of yuri anime, which focuses on romantic relationships between female characters. While some yuri anime focus primarily on romance, others, like Volicia of Pluto, blend the genre with other elements such as action, sci-fi, and mecha.
Other notable yuri anime include:
- Citrus
- Strawberry Panic
- Bloom Into You
- Assault Lily Bouquet
- Urasekai Picnic
- Kase-san and Morning Glories
- The Witch from Mercury
The inclusion of mecha (robots) in Volicia of Pluto places it within a subgenre that combines elements of yuri with giant robots and advanced technology.
Crowdfunding Success
The production of Volicia of Pluto has been supported by crowdfunding efforts, demonstrating the anime community’s enthusiasm for independent projects. The team successfully raised funds to produce the first episode and is likely relying on similar support for future installments.
Where to Watch
The first chapter of Volicia of Pluto was previously available for streaming on YouTube with English subtitles. It is expected that the second chapter will also be available online following its premiere.
Anime: A Global Phenomenon
Anime has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its diverse genres, compelling characters, and unique storytelling. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming romances, anime offers something for everyone.
Anime’s influence extends beyond entertainment, impacting fashion, art, music, and culture. Conventions, merchandise, and online communities bring fans together to celebrate their favorite shows and characters.
The Future of Volicia of Pluto
With the premiere of its second chapter, Volicia of Pluto is poised to further establish itself within the anime landscape. The combination of yuri, sci-fi, and robot elements, coupled with its independent production and crowdfunding support, sets it apart from mainstream anime. As the story unfolds, fans can expect to be drawn deeper into the mysteries of Akio and Ayano’s world.
