Series & First Appearance
Shintarou Kisaragi is a central character in the multimedia project Kagerou Project, which encompasses various formats including the light novel series, manga, and anime adaptation titled KagePro. He first appears in Chapter 1 of the manga, Kagerou Daze, created by Jin (Shizen no Teki-P). The KagePro anime adaptation produced by Shaft debuted in 2014, making Shintarou a well-recognized figure in the series.
Profile at a Glance
Shintarou, at 18 years old, serves as the main protagonist of the story and is a member of the Mekakushi-dan, a group of individuals with unique eye powers. He has a notable ability called Retaining Eyes, which enables him to remember all events from different timelines. Struggling with social interaction due to his hikikomori lifestyle, he grapples with both his past mistakes and the presence of the AI, Ene, who dramatically impacts his life.
Personality & Motivations
Shintarou is characterized by his intelligence, indicated by his high IQ of 168, but also by a deep-seated guilt that drives him into reclusion. He is introverted and struggles to connect with others, often feeling responsible for the suicide of his classmate, Ayano Tateyama, whom he could not help when she needed it. This sense of guilt manifests in a desire to atone for his perceived failures, leading him to withdraw from the outside world. Shintarou’s interactions with Ene, who often disturbs his life yet offers companionship, add complexity to his character, as he navigates his feelings of isolation and regret.
Abilities / Powers
Shintarou’s main power is the Retaining Eyes, symbolized by a snake that allows him to recall every moment from various timelines. Initially, he does not possess any eye ability, but after wishing to remember his past, he is granted this power by Mary. The Retaining Eyes only activate under certain emotional triggers, which adds a layer of complexity as he learns to confront his past fears. Although not inherently combative, he utilizes his intelligence and strategic thinking during confrontations involving the Mekakushi-dan.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Shintarou’s character arc evolves through several key events. Initially a top student, his downward spiral into hikikomori life begins after the trauma of Ayano’s suicide, which he blames himself for. His involvement with the Mekakushi-dan starts when he and Ene thwart a terrorist plot, leading to a need for social engagement. A significant turning point occurs when he learns about the true nature of his powers and confronts his past in the Heat Haze. Ultimately, his journey centers around seeking redemption and finding the courage to face lingering guilt while fostering connections with others.
Notable Relationships
Shintarou has complex connections with several key characters:
- Ene: An AI with a playful personality who disrupts his isolated life, acting as both a companion and a source of conflict.
- Momo Kisaragi: His younger sister, whose well-being often weighs on his conscience and reinforces his protective instincts.
- Ayano Tateyama: A pivotal figure from his past, her death serves as the catalyst for his tormented psyche and motivates many of his actions throughout the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Kagerou Daze when Shintarou first confronts the terrorists while teaming up with Ene. This moment signifies the transition from isolation to action and is pivotal in him joining the Mekakushi-dan. A poignant line capturing his guilt is, "I should have said something," which reflects his ongoing inner conflict about failing to help Ayano. These moments resonate deeply with fans, highlighting themes of regret and redemption.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Shintarou has achieved popularity within the fan community, ranking highly in various polls; he has over 1,000 member favorites on fan databases. The character is voiced by the talented Japanese actor and singer Miyano Mamoru in the anime adaptation, known for his dynamic vocal performances. In terms of cultural references, Shintarou’s struggle resonates with the real-life issue of social withdrawal and mental health, making him a relatable character for many viewers. His design and character concepts often reflect a blend of modern-day youth struggles and supernatural elements characteristic of Jin’s storytelling style.
Shintarou Kisaragi is a complex figure whose journey traverses themes of isolation, guilt, and the quest for personal growth, making him a memorable player in the Kagerou Project narrative.
