Ryusei Date, an 18-year-old mecha pilot fueled by fiery passion for super robots, enters the Burning PT National Tournament to secure military-funded medical care for his hospitalized mother, Yukiko, following his police-officer father’s line-of-duty death. His tournament success attracts Earth Federation Army Major Ingram Plissken, who recruits him into the SRX Team—a specialized unit developing advanced mecha—on the condition of Yukiko’s treatment.

Initially reckless and defiant toward authority, Ryusei clashes with disciplined teammate Raidiese F. Branstein during early training, his impulsive actions deemed a liability. Real combat exposure shifts his perspective, transforming battle from a game into a grave responsibility. Harnessing latent Psychodriver psychic abilities, he refines his skills, achieving heightened synchronization with mecha and rising as a capable pilot.

As primary pilot of the R-1 unit, Ryusei spearheads the SRX—a combined super robot integrating R-2 and R-3 units. Promoted to Second Lieutenant after Ingram’s betrayal, he confronts factions like the Aerogaters and Neo Divine Crusaders while balancing experimental unit testing, including the R-Blade Custom. Following the SRX’s destruction, he adapts to pilot the Banpreios during the Balmarian invasion, showcasing tactical resilience.

Childhood friend Kusuha Mizuha’s unreciprocated feelings contrast Ryusei’s indifference to romance, his focus fixated on mecha aesthetics—particularly feminine-styled robots. Teammates Latune Subbota and Mai Kobayashi adopt otaku traits to bond with him, though his priorities remain mechanical.

Spanning timelines like the Alpha series and Original Generation games, Ryusei evolves from a brash novice to a disciplined soldier, rivaling ATX Team’s Kyosuke Nanbu. His combat theatrics feature vocalized attacks like "Tenjou Tenga" and the T-Link Knuckle, underscored by themes "Everywhere You Go" and "Soul of Steel," cementing his legacy as a symbol of unwavering persistence.