Series & First Appearance
Hiro (Code:016) is a character from the anime series "DARLING in the FRANXX," created by Atsushi Nishigori and produced by CloverWorks in collaboration with Trigger. He first appears in Episode 1, titled "Zero Two," aired on January 13, 2018. The series is set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity struggles against mysterious entities known as KLAXOSAURS.
Profile at a Glance
Hiro is approximately 15 years old and serves as one of the protagonists in the series. He is a member of the APE organization, specifically part of a group of elite pilots known as the "Children," designed to combat KLAXOSAURS using mechs called FRANXX. Despite being heralded as a prodigy at a young age, Hiro faces challenges due to repeated failures in synchronizing with his designated partner, leading to a profound existential crisis.
Personality & Motivations
Hiro exhibits a deeply introspective and conflicted personality. Initially, he is marked by confidence and ambition as the promising child pilot; however, the failures in synchronization with his partner Naomi weigh heavily on him, causing feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Motivated by a yearning to belong and prove his worth, Hiro’s journey revolves around overcoming these internal struggles. His nurturing side and strong will are apparent in his interactions with his friends, particularly Ichigo and Gorou. Notably, his catchphrase, "I want to be a better pilot," encapsulates his determination and desire for growth.
Abilities / Powers
Hiro’s primary ability lies in piloting the FRANXX, a crucial skill intended for defending humanity against KLAXOSAURS. Despite his potential, his inability to synchronize perfectly with partners has made him question his capabilities. Over the course of the series, Hiro shows an ability to adapt, ultimately improving his synchronization when partnered with Zero Two (Code:002), marking a pivotal turning point in his evolution as a pilot. His combat style is characterized by strong cooperation and synergy with his partner, particularly during high-stress battles where unity is paramount.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Hiro’s character arc undergoes significant transformations throughout the series. Initially, he struggles with his perceived failures alongside Naomi, feeling lost and without identity. This transitions into a deeper exploration of his relationship with Zero Two, who helps him rediscover his self-worth and potential. Key episodes include his initial synchronization failures and his gradual acceptance of Zero Two as his partner in Episodes 2 and 3, where they confront their disconnect and begin to forge a strong bond. As the narrative progresses, Hiro becomes a decisive figure, leading others and fighting relentlessly for humanity’s survival, demonstrating growth from insecurity to leadership.
Notable Relationships
Hiro’s primary relationships are with his childhood friends Ichigo (Code:015) and Gorou (Code:056). Ichigo is particularly significant as she harbors feelings for Hiro and often struggles with accepting his growing bond with Zero Two. Gorou acts as a supportive figure throughout Hiro’s journey. The relationship with Zero Two is central to the narrative, evolving from a complicated partnership into a deep emotional connection that defines both characters’ arcs and ultimately drives the plot. Their symbiotic relationship emphasizes themes of love and existential purpose amidst turmoil.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Hiro’s most memorable scenes occurs in Episode 15, where he declares, “I’ll fight for you!” after realizing the depth of his feelings for Zero Two. This moment encapsulates his transformation and determination to protect those he loves, resonating strongly with fans. Another pivotal scene is in Episode 16, where Hiro confronts the reality of his past, resolving his internal conflict and solidifying his role as a brave leader, which further progresses his character arc.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Hiro has gained significant popularity amongst fans, ranking 2,296 in member favorites, indicating a strong following within the anime community. He is voiced in Japanese by Yoshimasa Hosoya, known for his roles in various anime, and the English voice is provided by the accomplished voice actor, Aaron Dismuke. The character’s design reflects the artistic styles of CloverWorks and Trigger, characterized by vibrant colors and detailed emotion expressions. The series includes cultural references to various elements of youth, love, and identity crises, making Hiro’s character resonate with a worldwide audience.
In conclusion, Hiro’s journey from a troubled child pilot to a confident leader embodies the underlying themes of "DARLING in the FRANXX," exploring themes of belonging, love, and personal growth. As he navigates his complexities, both in relationships and self-identity, he stands out as a relatable yet multifaceted character in contemporary anime.
