"Rideback" is a manga that ran from 2003 until 2009 for up to ten volumes. In the same month in which the manga had stopped running, a twelve-episode anime adaptation was then made as a result. The anime does somewhat follow closely to the events of the manga. However, it would seem that many things were either cut out or changed in the anime series.

If you want to get the true story of Rideback, it is best to read the manga. Overall, I had found Rideback to be one of the most interesting mangas to be ever read. In a sense, the manga beautifully meshes together politics, motorcycle riding, and mecha. There are a lot of original concepts and elements placed in Rideback.

Storyline: A

Rideback has quite the original plot as it takes place in the year 2020 in Japan. So far, it revolves around two-wheeled mechas known as "Ridebacks" that can shift between a humanoid mecha and a motorcycle form. So far, it would seem that Japan has an oppressive government and students are taking to the streets in anti-government protests.

As a result, the government is cracking down on the protests in part of the "Global Government Plan." So far, the plot is both story and character-driven. In Rideback, there is the conspiracy in regards to the instilment of a global government that seeks to oppress the world starting with Japan. In terms, it comes into conflict with the rebel group called the "Bordless Military Alliance."

Things get interesting when the student groups get factored in as well. It all centers on a female college student who gets dragged into all of this.

Characters: A

Rideback does have an interesting cast of characters. So far, the main character is college freshman Rin Ogata. She was born with her mother's talent of being a ballet dancer. Ironically, Rin was born on September 11, 2001. Perhaps this is a play on the policies of the George W. Bush administration after the 9/11 attacks on 2001.

In 2017, Rin injures herself and loses this part in this production. Rin stops dancing as a result and goes to Musashino University as a theatre major. Suddenly, she comes across a Rideback and feels like her old self. She is able to easily control the Rideback with her natural dancing ability.

She comes across minor and major characters. Rin is quite the interesting underdog as this newfound passion drags her into the middle of this conflict.

Illustrations: C

I did not really care for the illustrations that much. This is perhaps my one and only criticism for Rideback. In a sense, this is why I somewhat enjoyed the anime much better. From what I have seen, the illustrations could use a bit more work as they seem kiddish for the most part. However, the illustrations were still satisfactory.

Overall: A

Rideback is something quite interesting. It does remind me of "Akira" without the gore, violence, nudity, and bloodshed. The concepts make the story quite exciting. Also, it would seem that Rin becomes the major driving force in Rideback. Overall, this is a manga to definitely check out. If you are into motorcycles and mecha, definitely check out Rideback.

Learn more about this author, Can Tran.
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