Series & First Appearance
Kurisu Makise is a character from the visual novel and anime series Steins;Gate, created by 5pb. and Nitroplus. She first appears in Episode 1: "The Prologue" of the anime adaptation, which premiered in April 2011.
Profile at a Glance
Kurisu is an 18-year-old prodigy in neuroscience, functioning primarily as the female protagonist in the series. As a member of the Victor Qondria University Brain Research Program, she has made remarkable contributions to the field of time travel. Kurisu is known for her intelligence and analytical skills, with no notable combat abilities, as her strength lies in her scientific knowledge and research.
Personality & Motivations
Kurisu exhibits a mix of stern determination and curiosity, typical of a tsundere character. Though she often maintains a serious demeanor, especially in academic settings, she is deeply interested in exploring and understanding complex phenomena. Kurisu’s driving motivation is to advance the field of science, particularly in understanding time travel, after experiencing the ramifications of her work when she later collaborates with SERN. Despite her stoic nature, she displays an affectionate side toward Rintarou Okabe, developing romantic feelings as the storyline progresses. She often grapples with her relationship with her father, seeking both validation and independence.
Abilities / Powers
While Kurisu does not possess supernatural abilities, her profound intellect and expertise in neuroscience position her as an asset within the series. She excels in conducting experiments, particularly those involving time travel technology, demonstrating a rigorous approach to data analysis and ethics. Notably, she has a strong sense of scientific ethics, though her views sometimes clash with traditional boundaries—highlighted by her belief that "the experiment data is more important than the subject’s privacy." Throughout the series, Kurisu evolves as she navigates complex moral dilemmas that challenge her principles.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Kurisu’s character arc significantly shifts across several key plot points:
- Initial Encounter: In her first appearance, Kurisu meets Okabe in Akihabara, sparking a chain of events that lead her to join the Future Gadget Laboratory.
- Research Development: Throughout the series, she collaborates with Okabe and other members to investigate the implications of time travel. Her efforts are pivotal in understanding the consequences of their time-altering experiments.
- Facing SERN: In the Alpha Attractor Field, where SERN has dominance, Kurisu’s future reveals her becoming a prominent figure in the time machine project, known as the "Mother of Time Machine." This development highlights her conflict between personal ambition and the ethical ramifications of her work.
- Sacrifice and Resolve: In the side story "The Far Valhalla," Kurisu chooses to stay behind when escaping from SERN becomes an option, trusting that Okabe will overcome their predestined struggles. Her eventual execution by SERN in 2034 underscores her tragic commitment to the cause.
Notable Relationships
- Rintarou Okabe: Kurisu’s most significant relationship is with Okabe, leading to a complex romance defined by intellectual companionship and emotional attachment.
- Her Father: Their fraught dynamic is integral to understanding Kurisu’s personal struggles, as she conflicts with her father’s expectations while striving to establish her own identity.
- Suzuha Amane: Initially distrustful of Kurisu due to her association with SERN, their relationship evolves as Suzuha recognizes Kurisu’s innate goodness and dedication.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Kurisu’s notable quotes is "Science is all about confidence. If I don’t turn the impossible into reality, then I’ll be just some second-rate scientist." This encapsulates her tenacious approach to science (Ep. 12). Another key moment occurs when she emotionally confronts Okabe about their inability to return to their original timeline, showcasing her vulnerability and depth as a character (Ep. 22).
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Kurisu is voiced by Asami Imai in Japanese, and Cherimi Leigh in the English adaptation; both have been praised for capturing her multifaceted personality.
- Kurisu has a significant following, often ranking in polls as one of the most beloved female characters in anime.
- Her character design embodies elements reminiscent of real-life young scientists, including a striking red hair color and lab coat, emphasizing her academic background.
- Popular Culture: Kurisu has appeared in various crossover games, merchandise, and memes, further cementing her status in the anime community.
In conclusion, Kurisu Makise stands out as a complex and engaging character whose journey through scientific exploration, personal growth, and emotional connections resonates with fans of Steins;Gate. Her story unveils the intricacies of genius intertwined with vulnerability, making her a quintessential representation of the conflicts faced by scholars.
