Series & First Appearance
Age appears in the anime "Nobunaga the Fool," which premiered in 2014. The series was produced by Satelight, with a story that uniquely intertwines historical figures with elements of mecha and fantasy. Age’s specific debut within the show is in Episode 1, showcasing his intriguing character from the outset.
Profile at a Glance
Age presents as a teenage boy, though he is revealed to be around 120 years old due to his unique origin. Serving as a protagonist, he represents the remnants of the Golden Tribe and is a formidable ally aboard the Argonaut. His signature abilities include extraordinary strength, speed, and the capacity to survive in the vacuum of space, alongside the mystical powers granted by Bellcross, a Nodos that embodies his essence.
Personality & Motivations
Age embodies a wild, yet remarkably good-natured disposition. He consistently displays a childlike innocence, often seen smiling and expressing affection for those around him, particularly the crew of the Argonaut. His upbringing on a desolate planet led him to develop a unique perspective on life, often apologizing to his prey before hunting them. Age’s limited exposure to human society gives him a quirky speech pattern, where he pronounces words slowly, replicating how he was taught. He often refers to the Golden Tribe as “Dad and the others” and harbors a deep, unwavering loyalty toward those he loves, which drives his actions throughout the series.
Abilities / Powers
Age possesses a range of standout abilities:
- Extraordinary Physique: He exhibits superhuman strength and speed, capable of breaking through the outer shell of the Argonaut with bare hands.
- Survival in Space: His body can withstand the vacuum of space without requiring air or being affected by pressure.
- Bellcross: The Nodos connected to him allows for the absorption of enemies’ lifeforce, which can be converted into a destructive energy blast. This ability marks him as one of the strongest remnants of the Hero Tribe.
However, Age’s skills are complemented by his naivety regarding fundamental concepts like numbers and language, limiting his strategic understanding in various contexts.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Age’s character undergoes significant development throughout the series:
- Awakening of Bellcross: His transformation occurs when he taps into the power of Bellcross after the Bronze Tribe attacks Oron. This event serves as a catalyst for his rage and prompts him to defend his home, ultimately leading to the destruction of the Bronze fleet.
- Relationship with the Crew: His interactions with the Argonaut’s crew reflect his growth in understanding human connections and relationships. The nurturing dynamic he shares with them develops further, showcasing how he learns to balance his innate ferocity with camaraderie.
- Prophetic Insights: Age’s unique connection with the Golden Tribe also allows him to foretell future events, offering a glimpse into his responsibilities and burdens as a bearer of their legacy.
Notable Relationships
- Mother (A.I.): Age’s relationship with the ship’s A.I., whom he refers to as "Mother," highlights his deep need for connection and familial bonds. Despite the A.I. not fully comprehending him, Age’s affection for it showcases his innocent love.
- Crew of the Argonaut: His bonds with the crew are pivotal, as they serve not only as allies in battle but also as a surrogate family for him. His ongoing affection for them fosters a spirit of unity and cooperation.
- The Golden Tribe: Representing a significant aspect of his identity, the Golden Tribe serves as both mentors and a source of his powers, shaping his worldview and motivations.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
A standout moment occurs in Episode 1, where Age declares his love for everyone on the Argonaut, illustrating his affectionate nature and deep-seated desire for connection. This moment underlines his character foundation and resonates with the audience, as it encapsulates his spirit.
In another impactful scene, when he summons Bellcross, he reflects on the devastation caused by the Bronze Tribe, showcasing his emotional depth and the seriousness of his role in the ongoing conflict. These moments serve to solidify Age’s position as a lovable yet fierce protagonist.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Voice Actor: In the original Japanese dub, Age is voiced by Kazuya Nakai, known for his versatile range in anime. In the English adaptation, he is brought to life by Matthew Mercer, famed for portraying a variety of notable characters in different series.
- Popularity: Age has gained considerable popularity within the fandom, evidenced by 224 member favorites on platforms like MyAnimeList, indicating a strong fanbase that appreciates his complex nature.
- Cultural References: Age’s design and character traits draw inspiration from traditional hero archetypes in anime, reflecting themes of innocence, strength, and companionship.
With his intricate backstory and dynamic abilities, Age remains a distinctive figure in "Nobunaga the Fool," embodying the spirit of adventure and the search for belonging in a fragmented universe.
