OVA
Description
Ikusabe Wataru, a cheerful 9-year-old Japanese elementary school student at Ryujin Elementary, lives an ordinary life with his parents until destiny comes calling. A mystical dragon transports him to Shinbukai's fantasy realm, specifically the tiered mountains of Soukaizan. There, he is hailed as the reincarnated "Savior," destined to liberate the land from tyranny. This status flows from his ancient Ikusabe Clan bloodline and is confirmed by his bond with the dragon deity Ryujinmaru. Wataru possesses distinctive bouncing black-brown hair, a notable nose, and stands 131 cm tall. As the Savior, he dons a ceremonial white and blue outfit with red and white shoulder pads, a gold crown tiara, and wields a broad sword in a red sheath.
His personality radiates optimism and a strong sense of justice; he refuses to ignore injustice or dishonesty. He frequently uses the phrase "To put it simply..." while rubbing his nose with his fist. Academically average, he excels in sports like baseball, soccer, and roller skating, aspiring to be a Little League pitcher or astronaut. He dislikes vegetables such as onions, konjac, and carrots, and harbors a fear of snakes. Wataru exhibits Chronic Hero Syndrome, driven to protect others regardless of personal risk. However, in "The Never-Ending Tale of Time" OVA, he reveals deep-seated insecurities about his role, admitting he never felt capable of saving the world and that his heroism stems solely from an inability to abandon those in need.
His character evolves significantly across the franchise. Initially, he eagerly embraces his destiny, summoning the mecha Ryujinmaru to battle Soukaizan's oppressors. Later stories explore his vulnerabilities: "Super Mashin Hero Wataru" sees him lose his memories and briefly turn delinquent after his "good heart" is stolen, regaining resolve only upon reuniting with Ryujinmaru. He experiences profound, uncontrolled berserker rage when deceived into believing his ally Toraoh died, causing collateral damage. His relationships deepen with companions like the kunoichi Himiko Shinobibe, who acts as his emotional anchor, and his mentor, the swordsman Shibaraku Tsurugibe. He navigates complex dynamics with antagonists-turned-allies like Kurama Wataribe. Wataru occasionally employs cross-dressing as a tactic, disguising as a geisha, schoolgirl, or lady with natural adeptness.
This development traces his growth from a typical child to a burdened hero. While maintaining core idealism, he confronts ethical dilemmas, leadership pressures, and the psychological toll of his responsibilities. "The Never-Ending Tale of Time" OVA highlights a melancholic, introspective phase where his battles culminate in a climactic confrontation. This reinforces his reliance on friendship bonds to persevere despite doubting his intrinsic worthiness as the Savior.
His personality radiates optimism and a strong sense of justice; he refuses to ignore injustice or dishonesty. He frequently uses the phrase "To put it simply..." while rubbing his nose with his fist. Academically average, he excels in sports like baseball, soccer, and roller skating, aspiring to be a Little League pitcher or astronaut. He dislikes vegetables such as onions, konjac, and carrots, and harbors a fear of snakes. Wataru exhibits Chronic Hero Syndrome, driven to protect others regardless of personal risk. However, in "The Never-Ending Tale of Time" OVA, he reveals deep-seated insecurities about his role, admitting he never felt capable of saving the world and that his heroism stems solely from an inability to abandon those in need.
His character evolves significantly across the franchise. Initially, he eagerly embraces his destiny, summoning the mecha Ryujinmaru to battle Soukaizan's oppressors. Later stories explore his vulnerabilities: "Super Mashin Hero Wataru" sees him lose his memories and briefly turn delinquent after his "good heart" is stolen, regaining resolve only upon reuniting with Ryujinmaru. He experiences profound, uncontrolled berserker rage when deceived into believing his ally Toraoh died, causing collateral damage. His relationships deepen with companions like the kunoichi Himiko Shinobibe, who acts as his emotional anchor, and his mentor, the swordsman Shibaraku Tsurugibe. He navigates complex dynamics with antagonists-turned-allies like Kurama Wataribe. Wataru occasionally employs cross-dressing as a tactic, disguising as a geisha, schoolgirl, or lady with natural adeptness.
This development traces his growth from a typical child to a burdened hero. While maintaining core idealism, he confronts ethical dilemmas, leadership pressures, and the psychological toll of his responsibilities. "The Never-Ending Tale of Time" OVA highlights a melancholic, introspective phase where his battles culminate in a climactic confrontation. This reinforces his reliance on friendship bonds to persevere despite doubting his intrinsic worthiness as the Savior.