Series & First Appearance
Haida (ハイ田) is a character from the anime Aggressive Retsuko, created by Yoiko and produced by Fanworks. He made his first appearance in the show’s inaugural episode, titled "The Office," which aired in 2016. The series combines elements of slice-of-life with comedic elements to portray the struggles of office life through its anthropomorphic characters.
Profile at a Glance
Haida is a male hyena in his late twenties, serving as a supporting character in the series. He is primarily known for being Retsuko’s co-worker at the accounting department of their company and has an unrequited crush on her. His signature traits include a laid-back demeanor and a penchant for playing the guitar, often expressing his feelings through music.
Personality & Motivations
Haida is characterized by his mild-mannered personality, often coming off as shy and introverted, especially around Retsuko. He displays kindness and supportiveness toward his colleagues, although his romantic feelings for Retsuko often lead to nerves and awkward moments. His motivations mainly revolve around getting to know Retsuko better and eventually confessing his feelings. Notably, he sometimes exhibits a tendency to be overly self-deprecating, which affects his confidence in pursuing Retsuko.
Abilities / Powers
While Haida does not have traditional powers or combat abilities, his standout skill lies in his musical talent, particularly when playing the guitar. His music becomes a means of emotional expression, both for himself and for his colleagues. However, his limitations stem from his overwhelming self-consciousness, which can hinder his ability to assert himself, especially in romantic situations. As the series progresses, he starts to gain more confidence, especially when engaging in musical performances.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Haida’s character development is most evident during various poignant moments throughout the series. In the first season, his unrequited love for Retsuko is introduced, emphasizing his struggles with self-confidence. By the third season, he begins to show more assertiveness and takes steps to confront his feelings, ultimately leading to a significant musical showdown that brings to the forefront his emotional growth and determination. His arc continues in subsequent seasons, revealing deeper layers of a character confronting the challenges of adulthood, love, and friendship.
Notable Relationships
Haida’s most significant relationship is with Retsuko, the show’s main protagonist. His feelings for her shape much of his narrative. He shares a friendly rapport with other characters, such as his colleague Fenneko, who offers cynical advice or humor in contrast to his soft-spoken nature. Additionally, his interactions with fellow office workers like Director Ton are often a source of comedic relief, as they typify the frustrations of modern office life.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in Season 2, Episode 10, where Haida finally finds the courage to express his feelings through music. This pivotal moment highlights his growth and the vulnerability intrinsic to human emotions, resonating deeply with fans. Another impactful quote comes from Season 3, where he states, “You know, sometimes you just have to let it all out,” encapsulating his journey toward self-expression and the importance of pursuing one’s feelings.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Haida is voiced by Shingo Katou in the Japanese version, with Benjamin Diskin providing the English voice. The character’s design reflects a unique art style that captures anthropomorphic traits while retaining relatable human features. His popularity has led him to be included in merchandise and fan art, boasting over 632 member favorites within the community. The character’s music, especially the metal genre reflective of Retsuko’s persona, has become an iconic element of the series, further enhancing his appeal among fans. Fans appreciate his relatable struggles with love and self-confidence, which resonate in contemporary social contexts.
Overall, Haida serves as a vital character in Aggressive Retsuko, offering both comedic relief and emotional depth that enriches the narrative, making him a beloved figure in the series.
