The second chapter of the independent anime project Volicia of Pluto -Vapor Trail Another Age 2006- is now streaming with English subtitles for a limited time! Fans of yuri, sci-fi, and mecha anime won’t want to miss this exciting continuation of the story.
What is Volicia of Pluto?
Volicia of Pluto is an independent anime project created by AsH, a Japanese writer/animator who handles the direction, editing, scriptwriting, animation, and cinematography. The series is a blend of yuri (girl-love), science fiction, and mecha (giant robots) elements. The story takes place in 2006 and revolves around two main characters: Akio Hoshigami and Ayano Umisoe.
Story Premise
Akio Hoshigami is a high school girl who loses her dream of becoming a track-and-field star due to a leg injury. She enters high school with her best friend, Ayano Umisoe. As Akio joins new clubs and makes new friends, she gradually starts to recover her former self. However, one day, Ayano suddenly disappears, leading Akio on a quest to find her. The story quickly expands into a battle over the fate of all life, fought through the medium of giant robots.
A Yuri Mecha Rollercoaster
Volicia of Pluto has been described as a “yuri/mecha rollercoaster.” The anime explores the relationship between Akio and Ayano, which deepens amidst the backdrop of giant robot battles and a looming conflict. The first episode introduces the main characters and sets the stage for the unfolding drama, leaving many questions unanswered and mysteries to be solved.
Chapter 2: Ultramarine
The second chapter, titled Volicia of Pluto #2: Ultramarine, premiered in Japanese theaters in April 2025. Now, it is available online for a limited time with English subtitles.
Where to Watch
The full 42-minute anime is currently streaming online. Be sure to watch it before it’s gone! The stream is available until June 19, 2025.
Production Details
Volicia of Pluto is a largely solo project, with AsH taking on many key roles. Other contributors include:
- Music: nagiha
- Sound Effects: Kona a.k.a. Fukutarau
- Production Cooperation: Zerogosha
Cast
The anime features the following voice cast:
- Akio Hoshigami: Mahiro Kusaka
- Ayano Umisoe: Miho Mashiro
- Sora Yamada: Rinka Haruse
- Honoka Satō: Natsuki Ochiai
- Shiori Aratae: Miku Ichinose
- Hoshi no Sadame (Fate of the Planet): Yūto Arai
- Kasumi Yamabe: Yuna Hachiman
- Miko 2: Yūdai Noda
- Miko 3: Yui Hayashi
- Miko 4: Karin Sakuragi
- Maintenance Crew 1: Iwori
- Maintenance Crew 2: Ako Iwanami
Reception and Reviews
Volicia of Pluto has garnered attention for its unique blend of genres and the fact that it is primarily the work of one person. Reviewers have noted the anime’s fast-paced storytelling, compelling characters, and impressive production values, especially considering its indie status.
A Nostalgic Nod to OVAs
Some viewers have noted that the anime’s pacing and style are reminiscent of classic Original Video Animations (OVAs) from the 80s and 90s, offering a nostalgic experience for fans of older anime.
Story and Characters
While some find the plot convoluted and confusing, others appreciate the focus on the relationship between Akio and Ayano. The characters are considered standard types, but the main characters’ coolness and resolve carry the piece. The yuri element is undeniable, although there’s much else going on.
Production Quality
Despite being an indie project, Volicia of Pluto boasts impressive animation and dynamic action scenes. The music is also praised for being a perfect match for the series.
Crowdfunding and Future Installments
The Volicia of Pluto project has relied on crowdfunding to support its production. A successful campaign on Campfire funded the second episode, and a new campaign is underway for the third and final chapter.
Support the Creator
Fans who enjoy Volicia of Pluto can support the creator by contributing to the crowdfunding campaign for the final chapter. This will help ensure the completion of the trilogy and allow AsH to continue creating unique and engaging anime.
Other Works by AsH
Before Volicia of Pluto, AsH released two other anime:
- Gekijōban Vapor Trail (2021)
- Penetrate Blue -Vapor Trail Another Age 2824- (2022)
Both of these anime are available on AsH’s YouTube channel with English subtitles.
Themes and Inspirations
Volicia of Pluto explores themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny. The anime draws inspiration from various sources, including:
- Kannazuki no Miko
- Yuki Yuna is a Hero
- Gundam: Witch From Mercury
Yuri and Mecha: A Long History
The combination of yuri and mecha is not new to anime. Other examples of yuri mecha anime include:
- Cross Ange: Rondo of Angel and Dragon
- Simoun
- Mai-HiME
- Kannazuki no Miko
- Granbelm
- Rinne no Lagrange
- Kidou Senshi Gundam: Suisei no Majo
Final Thoughts
Volicia of Pluto is a unique and ambitious anime project that blends yuri, sci-fi, and mecha elements into a compelling story. The second chapter is now available for a limited time with English subtitles, so be sure to check it out and support the creator! With its engaging characters, exciting action, and intriguing mysteries, Volicia of Pluto is a must-watch for fans of indie anime and the yuri mecha genre.
