Series & First Appearance
Neptune originates from the video game franchise Hyperdimension Neptunia, with her first appearance in Hyperdimension Neptunia (2010). The franchise was created by Compile Heart, with character designs by Tsunako. The story has been adapted into various forms, including an anime series titled Hyperdimension Neptunia: The Animation, released in 2013.
Profile at a Glance
Neptune, known as the CPU Goddess of Planeptune, is portrayed as a youthful character in her normal form, approximately 16 years old. As a protagonist, she often embodies a carefree attitude juxtaposed with moments of seriousness in combat. Her signature ability is the transformation into Purple Heart, enabling her enhanced powers and combat skills.
Personality & Motivations
Neptune is characterized by her cheerful, playful, and somewhat lazy disposition. She enjoys video games and sweets, particularly pudding, which often draws the ire of her advisor, Histoire. Despite her lightheartedness, Neptune is shown to have a strong sense of justice, with a determination to protect Planeptune and its citizens. Notably, her affectionate behavior includes hugging and teasing other CPU characters, especially her rival, Noire, which highlights her playful nature. Her catchphrase, "I’m gonna blast off into space!" reflects her optimistic outlook.
Abilities / Powers
In her normal form, Neptune possesses basic combat capabilities and access to the Shares system, which fuels her transformation to Purple Heart. This evolution grants her heightened combat prowess, significantly enhanced strength, agility, and intelligence. As Purple Heart, she has a formidable presence, with abilities that include powerful energy attacks and a more confident demeanor. However, her carefree nature often leads to underestimating her opponents, posing a limitation in her strategic approach. The transformation also alters her physical attributes; her height increases to 164 cm and her figure matures notably, reflecting her growth in both ability and personality.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Neptune’s character undergoes substantial development throughout various arcs in the Hyperdimension Neptunia series. Key moments include her initial struggle to understand her role as a CPU amidst the chaotic challenges posed by other goddesses and their respective nations. In arcs such as "The Four Goddesses Online" and "Neptunia VIIR," she confronts her insecurities and grows into a more responsible leader. Noteworthy is her journey of self-discovery, where she learns the importance of bonds with her allies, ultimately culminating in a greater commitment to her duty as a goddess.
Notable Relationships
Neptune’s relationships are vital to her narrative. Her closest ally is Histoire, who acts as her mentor and guide. She shares a strong friendship with other CPUs, notably Noire, Blanc, and Vert, but often teases Noire, leading to many humorous interactions. Additionally, her relationship with her rival CPUs serves to deepen her character and highlight themes of rivalry and camaraderie in the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One particularly memorable moment occurs in Episode 1 of the anime adaptation, where Neptune first introduces herself with her playful personality contrasting sharply with the serious tone of the other characters. In addition, a poignant quote from her when she declares, "Even if the world’s against me, I’ll fight for it!" encapsulates her unwavering resolve, resonating deeply with fans who appreciate her growth from a carefree youth to a dedicated champion.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Neptune is voiced by Takahashi Rie in the Japanese version and Kira Buckland in the English dub, both giving her unique charm and personality. The character has consistently ranked high in popularity polls among fans of the Hyperdimension Neptunia series, showcasing her appeal. Neptune’s lighthearted and comedic approach, along with her transition to a serious warrior through her HDD transformation, represents a unique blend of humor and depth, contributing to her status as a beloved protagonist in modern anime and gaming culture.
Neptune remains a pivotal figure in the Hyperdimension Neptunia franchise, beloved for her quirky personality, distinct relationships, and notable character development throughout the series.
